Psychodynamic Therapists in Whitman, MA
![Photo of Amanda Rivers-Kelly, MEd, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50b18b1a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have a practical approach to therapy and believe a solid understanding of yourself is key to resolving emotional distress.I tailor my therapeutic style to the client's individual age and needs.I utilize a variety of modalities including CBT,psychodynamic,holistic, art &play therapy andsand play. I encourage clients to develop insight into their thoughts and behaviors. I believe in building coping skills to maintain healthy functioning.
I have a practical approach to therapy and believe a solid understanding of yourself is key to resolving emotional distress.I tailor my therapeutic style to the client's individual age and needs.I utilize a variety of modalities including CBT,psychodynamic,holistic, art &play therapy andsand play. I encourage clients to develop insight into their thoughts and behaviors. I believe in building coping skills to maintain healthy functioning.
![Photo of Annie Lally, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1cb06d6-e9b1-461e-8ab1-0b4ed5aef407/2/320x400.jpeg)
Having the ability to express yourself freely and without judgment is an essential part of therapy, and the relationship between client and therapist is a key aspect of this. As a social worker, I recognize the importance of human relationships and the environment we live in, as well as the negative impact they have on our ability to function. I utilize a person-centered, strengths based approach to understand individuals as a whole, and work collaboratively with clients to address their challenges and reach their goals. I provide individual therapy focusing on anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns.
Having the ability to express yourself freely and without judgment is an essential part of therapy, and the relationship between client and therapist is a key aspect of this. As a social worker, I recognize the importance of human relationships and the environment we live in, as well as the negative impact they have on our ability to function. I utilize a person-centered, strengths based approach to understand individuals as a whole, and work collaboratively with clients to address their challenges and reach their goals. I provide individual therapy focusing on anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns.
![Photo of Jenni Brennan, MSW, LICSW, CEIS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40dc406c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jenni Brennan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CEIS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whitman, MA 02382 (Online Only)
I approach all counseling sessions from a strengths-based perspective, assisting you to identify and draw upon your inherent resources. Authenticity, transparency and acceptance are deeply valued by me, resulting in truly honest and supportive counseling sessions. By collaborating closely together, you and I will define and work toward realistic goals in order to maximize your time in counseling. Available to see residents of Massachusetts or Florida via Telehealth.
I approach all counseling sessions from a strengths-based perspective, assisting you to identify and draw upon your inherent resources. Authenticity, transparency and acceptance are deeply valued by me, resulting in truly honest and supportive counseling sessions. By collaborating closely together, you and I will define and work toward realistic goals in order to maximize your time in counseling. Available to see residents of Massachusetts or Florida via Telehealth.
![Photo of Adam Betters, MEd, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98972c3b-0465-437c-be72-30f113ad670f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe therapy is best treated with positive support and with a strong professional relationship. Therapy should consist of empathy and sensitivity for your needs and goals. I approach all of my clients in a strength based supportive modality. You will find me to be a passionate, motivated and educated therapist that will help to reach your goals.
I believe therapy is best treated with positive support and with a strong professional relationship. Therapy should consist of empathy and sensitivity for your needs and goals. I approach all of my clients in a strength based supportive modality. You will find me to be a passionate, motivated and educated therapist that will help to reach your goals.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Danyel Cousins, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65ef84a5-0e9a-46e2-9c0b-855d8eacbc0e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have over 10 years of experience as a therapist working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing both minor and major life transitions, challenges and events, and symptoms of traumatic stress, anxiety, and/or depression. I believe that therapy is a tool to invest in one's mental health that can permeate for generations. I use an eclectic approach, using different interventions and aspects from solution-focused, CBT, interpersonal, narrative, attachment, & psychodynamic.
I have over 10 years of experience as a therapist working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing both minor and major life transitions, challenges and events, and symptoms of traumatic stress, anxiety, and/or depression. I believe that therapy is a tool to invest in one's mental health that can permeate for generations. I use an eclectic approach, using different interventions and aspects from solution-focused, CBT, interpersonal, narrative, attachment, & psychodynamic.
![Photo of Kristen Gonzalez, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73a6a875-921b-4591-8ee7-220d5bfcddb5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kristen’s therapeutic approach is integrative, incorporating psychodynamic therapy to explore clients’ past experiences and their influence on present behaviors, as well as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to change maladaptive patterns of thinking that may impact everyday functioning.
Kristen Gonzalez is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment/life transitions, relationship issues, and stress in adults. Kristen has 6 years of experience working with individuals from different ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. She completed her master’s degree in Counseling Psychology at Boston College. Kristen understands that everyone’s life experiences are unique, therefore she utilizes a warm, nonjudgmental, and supportive approach to meet her clients where they are and to deeply understand her clients’ life experiences and backgrounds.
Kristen’s therapeutic approach is integrative, incorporating psychodynamic therapy to explore clients’ past experiences and their influence on present behaviors, as well as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to change maladaptive patterns of thinking that may impact everyday functioning.
Kristen Gonzalez is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment/life transitions, relationship issues, and stress in adults. Kristen has 6 years of experience working with individuals from different ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. She completed her master’s degree in Counseling Psychology at Boston College. Kristen understands that everyone’s life experiences are unique, therefore she utilizes a warm, nonjudgmental, and supportive approach to meet her clients where they are and to deeply understand her clients’ life experiences and backgrounds.
![Photo of Claudia Sousa, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19c4ba35-3bfc-4515-a096-e3d9a33e7399/2/320x400.jpeg)
Claudia Sousa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brockton, MA 02302 (Online Only)
My approach to psychotherapy combines elements of psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution focused therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and somatic exercises to achieve balance of the the mind, body, and spirit.
My ideal client seeks support to address challenges related to life transitions, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, and the myriad of challenges of day to day life. The client has a desire to integrate holistic wellness practices into their daily lives that addresses their individual needs, goals, and supports and empowers them to create a life they love. I utilize a diverse clinical approach that is strength-based and client centered to help clients achieve their goals. I am a bilingual practitioner and am fluent in Cape Verdean Creole
My approach to psychotherapy combines elements of psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution focused therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and somatic exercises to achieve balance of the the mind, body, and spirit.
My ideal client seeks support to address challenges related to life transitions, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, and the myriad of challenges of day to day life. The client has a desire to integrate holistic wellness practices into their daily lives that addresses their individual needs, goals, and supports and empowers them to create a life they love. I utilize a diverse clinical approach that is strength-based and client centered to help clients achieve their goals. I am a bilingual practitioner and am fluent in Cape Verdean Creole
![Photo of Patricia Algird, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4515eba9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Algird
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Norwell, MA 02061
Not accepting new clients
I utilize cognitive behavior therapy as well as a psychodynamic approach.
I treat a wide range of disorders but primarily adults struggling with life transitions .Therapy can help with anxiety, depression and stress related issues. My clients often begin therapy due to family caregiving, substance abuse ,chronic illness or unhealthy relationship patterns. To help clients reach their goals I utilize a network of resources when necessary such as prescribers, group therapists and psychologists.
I utilize cognitive behavior therapy as well as a psychodynamic approach.
I treat a wide range of disorders but primarily adults struggling with life transitions .Therapy can help with anxiety, depression and stress related issues. My clients often begin therapy due to family caregiving, substance abuse ,chronic illness or unhealthy relationship patterns. To help clients reach their goals I utilize a network of resources when necessary such as prescribers, group therapists and psychologists.
![Photo of Erin Pike, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ecaf117-3eff-4dc2-a60d-4d94fa0b5cd9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Pike
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Abington, MA 02351
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize a variety of modalities including psychodynamic, holistic, non-directive play therapy and CBT.
Asking for help can be difficult, but looking for a therapist is the first step towards personal growth. As a therapist, I aim to provide a safe and supportive environment for clients of all ages to work on a variety of issues such as: Anxiety, Depression, life changes, behavioral difficulties and more. I offer individual and family therapy as well as parent guidance and coaching. I currently do not have any openings, but please feel free to reach out to be added to the waitlist.
I utilize a variety of modalities including psychodynamic, holistic, non-directive play therapy and CBT.
Asking for help can be difficult, but looking for a therapist is the first step towards personal growth. As a therapist, I aim to provide a safe and supportive environment for clients of all ages to work on a variety of issues such as: Anxiety, Depression, life changes, behavioral difficulties and more. I offer individual and family therapy as well as parent guidance and coaching. I currently do not have any openings, but please feel free to reach out to be added to the waitlist.
![Photo of Patricia Fair, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d95d793f-f2ab-4a2b-aeb4-a648beb390ce/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe in an eclectic approach that incorporates psychodynamic theory, family systems principles, cognitive-behavioral treatment, and Mindfulness practice.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or you are suffering from trauma and loss, I look forward to speaking with you. I am an individual therapist with over thirty years of experience helping individuals of all ages. My background includes a foundation in nursing practice in acute medical settings, community mental health, and private practice. As a therapist, I believe each person has the ability to heal and my goal is to help you facilitate your own growth through evidenced-based treatment.
I believe in an eclectic approach that incorporates psychodynamic theory, family systems principles, cognitive-behavioral treatment, and Mindfulness practice.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or you are suffering from trauma and loss, I look forward to speaking with you. I am an individual therapist with over thirty years of experience helping individuals of all ages. My background includes a foundation in nursing practice in acute medical settings, community mental health, and private practice. As a therapist, I believe each person has the ability to heal and my goal is to help you facilitate your own growth through evidenced-based treatment.
![Photo of Joyce Bengal - Monarca Counseling, MA, LADC1, SA/MH, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07d0521b-c5d6-41c0-b562-6d856972bce5/7/320x400.jpeg)
Monarca Counseling
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LADC1, SA/MH
Verified Verified
Bridgewater, MA 02324 (Online Only)
I am Joyce Bengal. Monarca Counseling is my multicultural practice open to adults. If you are ready to let go of the drug or feeling that has a hold on you, and create a life, I am here as your Change Agent. As a therapist with over 30 years of experience working through agencies, shelters, juvenile facilities, and prisons, I continue to address anxiety and depression, trauma, gender id and racism. Using: CBT, behavioral and psychodynamic, motivational interviewing and expressive therapies. And bring teaching experience at Tuskegee Institute, Miles College and Tufts Experimental College to my practice.
I am Joyce Bengal. Monarca Counseling is my multicultural practice open to adults. If you are ready to let go of the drug or feeling that has a hold on you, and create a life, I am here as your Change Agent. As a therapist with over 30 years of experience working through agencies, shelters, juvenile facilities, and prisons, I continue to address anxiety and depression, trauma, gender id and racism. Using: CBT, behavioral and psychodynamic, motivational interviewing and expressive therapies. And bring teaching experience at Tuskegee Institute, Miles College and Tufts Experimental College to my practice.
![Photo of Chelsea Harubin, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c10d8027-0f81-4742-a8af-32b97ce7778b/4/320x400.jpeg)
Chelsea Harubin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Pembroke, MA 02359 (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is a blend between the following therapy models: Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Strength-Based, Psychodynamic, Humanistic, Person Centered, and Narrative Therapy.
Now accepting new clients! Hi, I’m Chelsea. Wherever you are on your healing journey, I applaud you for taking the steps to finding a therapist, it can be daunting! If you are looking for someone to speak to when extra support and validation are needed, I am here to help. I provide a warm, gentle and authentic approach while tailoring each session to my client’s needs. I specialize in women empowerment, eating disorders, perinatal & postpartum, depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, life transitions, LGBTQ+, relationship struggles, navigating motherhood, self-care, goal setting, accountability, burn-out, and forming healthy boundaries.
My approach to therapy is a blend between the following therapy models: Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Strength-Based, Psychodynamic, Humanistic, Person Centered, and Narrative Therapy.
Now accepting new clients! Hi, I’m Chelsea. Wherever you are on your healing journey, I applaud you for taking the steps to finding a therapist, it can be daunting! If you are looking for someone to speak to when extra support and validation are needed, I am here to help. I provide a warm, gentle and authentic approach while tailoring each session to my client’s needs. I specialize in women empowerment, eating disorders, perinatal & postpartum, depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, life transitions, LGBTQ+, relationship struggles, navigating motherhood, self-care, goal setting, accountability, burn-out, and forming healthy boundaries.
![Photo of Noah Slater, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00ad1ce1-6e79-4e1d-9d2a-e2227b8b87af/2/320x400.jpeg)
I utilize a psychodynamic lens which focuses on the unconscious forces that often drive our emotions and actions; including underlying desires and anxieties that are present deep within the mind yet influence personality and behavior.
Life is full of challenges and difficult moments. As human beings, we are wired to deal with our pain in ways that leave us feeling lost, exhausted, and hopeless. We may lose sight of our purpose, our values, our loved ones, and many other aspects of life that make us whole and content. With humility and compassion, I aim to support you in dropping the struggle and finding new ways to achieve the well-being you deserve. You don’t have to figure it out alone and I am here to help you regain control over your life. I hold space for many including first responders, veterans, and men who have been hesitant to pursue therapy in the past.
I utilize a psychodynamic lens which focuses on the unconscious forces that often drive our emotions and actions; including underlying desires and anxieties that are present deep within the mind yet influence personality and behavior.
Life is full of challenges and difficult moments. As human beings, we are wired to deal with our pain in ways that leave us feeling lost, exhausted, and hopeless. We may lose sight of our purpose, our values, our loved ones, and many other aspects of life that make us whole and content. With humility and compassion, I aim to support you in dropping the struggle and finding new ways to achieve the well-being you deserve. You don’t have to figure it out alone and I am here to help you regain control over your life. I hold space for many including first responders, veterans, and men who have been hesitant to pursue therapy in the past.
![Photo of Cam Lyons, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e39fc654-9e61-4860-82ee-5ef560e3c5e5/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a mental health counselor, my passion lies in guiding individuals toward a life of greater meaning and fulfillment. I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+, disabilities, couples, substance use, anxiety, depression, trauma, and neurodivergent communities. My approach is rooted in inclusivity, compassion, and an existential understanding of human suffering. I believe in the power of therapy to uncover deep-seated patterns, heal past wounds, and create lasting change. Integrating Brainspotting with evidence-based therapies like CBT, Schema Therapy, and psychodynamic therapy.
As a mental health counselor, my passion lies in guiding individuals toward a life of greater meaning and fulfillment. I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+, disabilities, couples, substance use, anxiety, depression, trauma, and neurodivergent communities. My approach is rooted in inclusivity, compassion, and an existential understanding of human suffering. I believe in the power of therapy to uncover deep-seated patterns, heal past wounds, and create lasting change. Integrating Brainspotting with evidence-based therapies like CBT, Schema Therapy, and psychodynamic therapy.
![Photo of Janice A. Peneno, LICSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b6b55d6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I blend a humanistic, interactive therapy approach with the use of psychodynamic and cognitive/behavioral practices.
I treat people the way I want to be treated, with respect, warmth and openness. My belief is to help you in reaching your full potential in order to have the life you believe is fulfilling for you. I am interactive, down to earth and ask questions to help you come to your own most useful conclusions. I will use your strengths to challenge you to consider other options within your life. I continue to love my work with all types of people after many years of experience.
I blend a humanistic, interactive therapy approach with the use of psychodynamic and cognitive/behavioral practices.
I treat people the way I want to be treated, with respect, warmth and openness. My belief is to help you in reaching your full potential in order to have the life you believe is fulfilling for you. I am interactive, down to earth and ask questions to help you come to your own most useful conclusions. I will use your strengths to challenge you to consider other options within your life. I continue to love my work with all types of people after many years of experience.
![Photo of Whitney Palma, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efa8caa8-5ba2-4d8a-99f2-c38390caa267/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with adults facing a wide range of challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, perinatal struggles, and relationship conflict. Through a culturally sensitive lens, I use a therapeutic approach that blends relational, humanistic and psychodynamic theories, while incorporating DBT skills, CBT techniques, and psychoeducation when appropriate.
I work with adults facing a wide range of challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, perinatal struggles, and relationship conflict. Through a culturally sensitive lens, I use a therapeutic approach that blends relational, humanistic and psychodynamic theories, while incorporating DBT skills, CBT techniques, and psychoeducation when appropriate.
![Photo of Christopher Panetta, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3914be8-8668-4eae-9be8-735b2ed7eba8/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a therapist, my aim is to foster a secure, supportive, and non-judgmental space where individuals and families can delve into the challenges that are faced. Together we will strive to remove barriers, earn trust, and make you feel welcome. We will work together to examine the relationship between your thoughts, feelings and behaviors while identifying ways to improve coping skills, restore confidence, and make positive changes. With experience spanning community mental health centers, schools, homes, and remote settings, I employ a person-centered, psychodynamic therapeutic approach.
As a therapist, my aim is to foster a secure, supportive, and non-judgmental space where individuals and families can delve into the challenges that are faced. Together we will strive to remove barriers, earn trust, and make you feel welcome. We will work together to examine the relationship between your thoughts, feelings and behaviors while identifying ways to improve coping skills, restore confidence, and make positive changes. With experience spanning community mental health centers, schools, homes, and remote settings, I employ a person-centered, psychodynamic therapeutic approach.
![Photo of Heidi Conner, LICSW, CADC-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a69c9784-a252-4783-b800-064eabbdf1b7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heidi Conner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CADC-II
Verified Verified
Kingston, MA 02364 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I’ll tailor an eclectic approach suited to your situation, drawing from psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, person-centered, and acceptance and commitment therapies.
By the time you begin looking for a therapist, you may have tried many different approaches to help yourself feel better. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or seeking a new perspective, I can offer non-judgmental support and guidance in a safe and nurturing environment. Taking the first step toward beginning therapy isn’t easy, but it’s a courageous choice that can open doors to positive change and personal fulfillment.
I’ll tailor an eclectic approach suited to your situation, drawing from psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, person-centered, and acceptance and commitment therapies.
By the time you begin looking for a therapist, you may have tried many different approaches to help yourself feel better. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or seeking a new perspective, I can offer non-judgmental support and guidance in a safe and nurturing environment. Taking the first step toward beginning therapy isn’t easy, but it’s a courageous choice that can open doors to positive change and personal fulfillment.
![Photo of Shawna H Weekly, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d0f2aa9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Through a combination of psychodynamic approaches, cognitive behavioral techniques and mindfulness training, I will help you learn the importance of self care, how to use specific tools to reduce anxiety and depression, and how to live a happier life.
I'm a firm believer in promoting positive change within by building upon the strengths we have inside of us and learning self acceptance as a path to happiness. I work with those who suffer from anxiety and depression, and specialize in working using a holistic approach to treatment. For the past 25 years I have been working with clients who struggle with anxiety and depression and I can tell you for certain two things: You are not alone and you do not need to suffer. My practice can accommodate adolescents and adults in individual, family and group settings.
Through a combination of psychodynamic approaches, cognitive behavioral techniques and mindfulness training, I will help you learn the importance of self care, how to use specific tools to reduce anxiety and depression, and how to live a happier life.
I'm a firm believer in promoting positive change within by building upon the strengths we have inside of us and learning self acceptance as a path to happiness. I work with those who suffer from anxiety and depression, and specialize in working using a holistic approach to treatment. For the past 25 years I have been working with clients who struggle with anxiety and depression and I can tell you for certain two things: You are not alone and you do not need to suffer. My practice can accommodate adolescents and adults in individual, family and group settings.
![Photo of Dr. Vanessa J Leary, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11ae15dd-f348-4c89-8ad1-453208dafcfb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Vanessa J Leary
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hanover, MA 02339
Not accepting new clients
I draw upon my training in CBT, DBT, ACT, and psychodynamic interventions.
My practice includes working with children, adolescents, and adults through creating a safe, trusting therapeutic environment. My goal is to help clients make sense of their approach to the world, understand challenges, and access effective coping strategies. Anxiety, depression, and other social-emotional difficulties often contribute to feelings of isolation. Through processing thoughts, feelings, and experiences, clients can begin to understand their map of the world in order to effectively address trauma (or Trauma) and increase feelings of self-confidence, sense of belonging, and self-efficacy.
I draw upon my training in CBT, DBT, ACT, and psychodynamic interventions.
My practice includes working with children, adolescents, and adults through creating a safe, trusting therapeutic environment. My goal is to help clients make sense of their approach to the world, understand challenges, and access effective coping strategies. Anxiety, depression, and other social-emotional difficulties often contribute to feelings of isolation. Through processing thoughts, feelings, and experiences, clients can begin to understand their map of the world in order to effectively address trauma (or Trauma) and increase feelings of self-confidence, sense of belonging, and self-efficacy.
See more therapy options for Whitman
Nearby Psychodynamic Therapists Searches for Whitman
- Bridgewater
- Brockton
- East Bridgewater
- Hanover
- Hingham
- North Easton
- Norwell
- Pembroke
- Randolph
- South Easton
- West Bridgewater
- Weymouth
Psychodynamic Therapists
Is psychodynamic therapy evidence-based?
Studies have found psychodynamic therapy to be effective in treating conditions like social anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain, some personality disorders, and depression; indeed, some studies have found it to be just as effective as CBT or medication. What’s more, several studies have found that the benefits of psychodynamic therapy tend to endure—even grow—long after treatment has ended.
How long does psychodynamic therapy last?
Unlike CBT and other more structured forms of therapy, psychodynamic therapy tends to be open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a year or longer and to see their therapist one to three times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a client’s challenges and progress. However, brief psychodynamic therapy is available, which tends to be more goal-oriented and typically unfolds over 16 to 30 sessions.
Does psychodynamic therapy work?
Research finds that psychodynamic therapy can help someone manage or reduce symptoms of diagnosable mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. The modality may also offer a range of benefits that are harder to measure but just as valuable—such as increased self-worth or healthier relationships. While no therapy type will work for everyone, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that psychodynamic therapy can be highly effective.
What are the limitations of psychodynamic therapy?
Some meta-analyses have concluded that there is little evidence to suggest that psychodynamic therapy can effectively treat certain mental health conditions such as PTSD, OCD, or psychosis, though it is sometimes used to do so. More broadly, the open-ended, free-association structure of psychodynamic therapy may be frustrating for clients who prefer a more structured, time-limited, or goal-oriented approach.