Psychodynamic Therapists in Apex, NC
![Photo of Dana Acheson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73d7e917-6f31-45b0-8180-80ee6f4db5c5/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a clinical social worker with a decade of experience in medical social work and crisis communication, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Based, Ecological and Psychodynamic approaches with individuals and families as they navigate life transitions, crises, loss, issues of identity and medical diagnoses.
We meet the world with what we have carried since birth, with what we have gained and lost along the way. Deciphering what serves you best, now, and what is holding you back, can be challenging work: but it is work well worth your efforts, and work you will not have to do alone. My approach is client centered, strengths based, and above all else, collaborative. Therapy is a process of guided discovery, and one that I would feel humbled and honored to embark on with you, should you be new to therapy, or have had many years of self-study.
I am a clinical social worker with a decade of experience in medical social work and crisis communication, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Based, Ecological and Psychodynamic approaches with individuals and families as they navigate life transitions, crises, loss, issues of identity and medical diagnoses.
We meet the world with what we have carried since birth, with what we have gained and lost along the way. Deciphering what serves you best, now, and what is holding you back, can be challenging work: but it is work well worth your efforts, and work you will not have to do alone. My approach is client centered, strengths based, and above all else, collaborative. Therapy is a process of guided discovery, and one that I would feel humbled and honored to embark on with you, should you be new to therapy, or have had many years of self-study.
![Photo of Christina Cooper Leadership Coach | Speaker | Consultant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b317d5e-3690-4716-ba2c-f1dd1285fe0b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Cooper Leadership Coach | Speaker | Consultant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Using psychodynamic and family systems approaches, I ask the critical questions that help you remove the barriers that prevent you from having the personal life and transformational relationships you want.
Are you in a season of your professional journey where you want more? Have you been living to please others and as a result are living your life on "empty". Are you sick of coming against the same challenges over and over again in your relationships, friendships, and work? Are you struggling to establish and maintain healthy relationships, but can't pinpoint why you're dissatisfied in the areas of your life that matter to you?
Using psychodynamic and family systems approaches, I ask the critical questions that help you remove the barriers that prevent you from having the personal life and transformational relationships you want.
Are you in a season of your professional journey where you want more? Have you been living to please others and as a result are living your life on "empty". Are you sick of coming against the same challenges over and over again in your relationships, friendships, and work? Are you struggling to establish and maintain healthy relationships, but can't pinpoint why you're dissatisfied in the areas of your life that matter to you?
![Photo of Brett Maher, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d654cfd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I see adults and adolescents for individual psychotherapy that blends Cognitive Behavioral, Humanistic, and Psychodynamic approaches, geared toward what each person most needs.
Are you feeling like your life needs a change but you are not sure where to start? It seems, as life becomes more complex, more and more people are suffering from the devastating effects of stress, depression and anxiety and can benefit from the support and insight that therapy provides. I am a NC Licensed Psychologist working clinically with a wide range of ages and issues. I've worked in the field for 20 years, in schools, day treatment, and the private practice setting with adults, families, couples and children; focusing on adjustment difficulties, relationship problems, childhood abuse and maladaptive coping.
I see adults and adolescents for individual psychotherapy that blends Cognitive Behavioral, Humanistic, and Psychodynamic approaches, geared toward what each person most needs.
Are you feeling like your life needs a change but you are not sure where to start? It seems, as life becomes more complex, more and more people are suffering from the devastating effects of stress, depression and anxiety and can benefit from the support and insight that therapy provides. I am a NC Licensed Psychologist working clinically with a wide range of ages and issues. I've worked in the field for 20 years, in schools, day treatment, and the private practice setting with adults, families, couples and children; focusing on adjustment difficulties, relationship problems, childhood abuse and maladaptive coping.
![Photo of Beth Cerrito-Cohen, PhD, PMH-C, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/009cd5fb-6279-420e-93bb-d55b2f62f47c/1/320x400.png)
My approach to therapy is "integrative," meaning that I draw from several different types of therapy ( psychodynamic, interpersonal, cognitive behavioral, client-centered, family systems) to find what will best meet your needs.
If you are thinking about counseling or therapy, chances are you are in distress, feeling not like yourself, or are looking for help in dealing with a difficult situation. You also probably want to find a therapist who is going to understand you and who has experience dealing with the problems and concerns that you are facing. I am available for in-person or telehealth sessions in North Carolina. I also offer telehealth appointments for patients located in New York or Florida.
My approach to therapy is "integrative," meaning that I draw from several different types of therapy ( psychodynamic, interpersonal, cognitive behavioral, client-centered, family systems) to find what will best meet your needs.
If you are thinking about counseling or therapy, chances are you are in distress, feeling not like yourself, or are looking for help in dealing with a difficult situation. You also probably want to find a therapist who is going to understand you and who has experience dealing with the problems and concerns that you are facing. I am available for in-person or telehealth sessions in North Carolina. I also offer telehealth appointments for patients located in New York or Florida.
![Photo of Laura Pond - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Cary, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5f8dee3-c0d3-4fb0-a80f-4dc6cbd6bc0e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
![Photo of Amy H Olson - Amy Olson, LCSW, CEDS-S, LCSW, CEDS-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0505d045-a30a-4b2c-81f2-2bfec552d065/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Olson, LCSW, CEDS-S
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
Welcome to my practice, where over 24 years of experience as a psychotherapist and Certified Eating Disorders Specialist have honed my understanding of the intricate interplay between mind and body. Specializing in disorders affecting the balance between mental and physical health—including mood disorders, eating disorders, and vestibular disorders, I have seen the healing potential of the therapeutic relationship and the transformation possible when both therapist and patient commit to the treatment. I practice psychodynamic talk therapy integrated with direct interventions.
Welcome to my practice, where over 24 years of experience as a psychotherapist and Certified Eating Disorders Specialist have honed my understanding of the intricate interplay between mind and body. Specializing in disorders affecting the balance between mental and physical health—including mood disorders, eating disorders, and vestibular disorders, I have seen the healing potential of the therapeutic relationship and the transformation possible when both therapist and patient commit to the treatment. I practice psychodynamic talk therapy integrated with direct interventions.
![Photo of Emily Moore, MA, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27ebb817-f909-4e93-b6aa-37d51010aae5/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe we all need a space where we can reflect on life. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe space where each client can ask difficult questions, explore struggles and find hope. I utilize a psychodynamic perspective in therapy, seeking both to alleviate symptoms and to help each client understand what is impeding the growth process underneath the surface of those symptoms. This style of therapy allows us to work together to better understand areas where you feel stuck and bring insight and understanding to patterns of behavior and feelings that may be impacting relationships and emotional health.
I believe we all need a space where we can reflect on life. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe space where each client can ask difficult questions, explore struggles and find hope. I utilize a psychodynamic perspective in therapy, seeking both to alleviate symptoms and to help each client understand what is impeding the growth process underneath the surface of those symptoms. This style of therapy allows us to work together to better understand areas where you feel stuck and bring insight and understanding to patterns of behavior and feelings that may be impacting relationships and emotional health.
![Photo of Lynne Daack, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63c24bb6-a76b-4d46-8e22-ff590e6ac68a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that each person’s narrative is uniquely diverse and deserves to be heard. As part of being human, we learn that life is complex, painful and joyful, and intrapersonal growth (i.e., change) is difficult. I listen to and honor the uniqueness of each person, pace, and process. I strive to create an empowering space that honors each person's journey. Clients will untangle the complexities of their emotions, heal from past wounds, and develop skills to navigate life more effectively. In therapy, we will collaboratively explore these areas, working towards greater self-awareness, resilience, and empowerment.
I believe that each person’s narrative is uniquely diverse and deserves to be heard. As part of being human, we learn that life is complex, painful and joyful, and intrapersonal growth (i.e., change) is difficult. I listen to and honor the uniqueness of each person, pace, and process. I strive to create an empowering space that honors each person's journey. Clients will untangle the complexities of their emotions, heal from past wounds, and develop skills to navigate life more effectively. In therapy, we will collaboratively explore these areas, working towards greater self-awareness, resilience, and empowerment.
![Photo of Sarah E Moore, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43ca9531-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah E Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502 (Online Only)
I am glad that you are here and trying to find a way forward, instead of staying stuck. Whether from a life time of trying to be "good enough" or a recent life change that has left you feeling unsure of yourself, I would like to hear and see you. You don't have to struggle alone. I would be glad to walk along side of you and figure this out together.
I am glad that you are here and trying to find a way forward, instead of staying stuck. Whether from a life time of trying to be "good enough" or a recent life change that has left you feeling unsure of yourself, I would like to hear and see you. You don't have to struggle alone. I would be glad to walk along side of you and figure this out together.
![Photo of Jeff Johnson, PsyD, MDiv, Pastoral Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fdd76ca2-e0d5-4267-9278-2c4fad65eee3/1/320x400.jpeg)
The wound is the way. Wise words from a trusted friend that helped me through a low place in my life and shaped my understanding of healing. I learned that avoiding pain and denying its effects only prolongs the suffering. But talking about it, writing about it, and feeling the pain of the wound somehow lessens its effects on us and allows us to go on. Chances are, you're carrying a wound and the pain is getting in the way of your health and happiness, your work and family. Is it a wound of betrayal, agonizing loss, anxiety or depression from childhood trauma, anger that wrecks your interactions with people? The wound is the way.
The wound is the way. Wise words from a trusted friend that helped me through a low place in my life and shaped my understanding of healing. I learned that avoiding pain and denying its effects only prolongs the suffering. But talking about it, writing about it, and feeling the pain of the wound somehow lessens its effects on us and allows us to go on. Chances are, you're carrying a wound and the pain is getting in the way of your health and happiness, your work and family. Is it a wound of betrayal, agonizing loss, anxiety or depression from childhood trauma, anger that wrecks your interactions with people? The wound is the way.
![Photo of Stonebridge Counseling - Stonebridge Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d5b4db0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Asking for help is the first step towards feeling better and leading a happier, healthier life. Mental health is an important part of overall well-being. Most of us, at one time or another, are impacted by mental health concerns. We have therapists that treat adults, children, and teens. If you don't even know where to start call or e-mail the office and we will help guide you in choosing the right therapist and check your insurance benefits. To learn more about each of our therapists and their individual specialties, please visit our website www.sbcounseling.com/therapists
Asking for help is the first step towards feeling better and leading a happier, healthier life. Mental health is an important part of overall well-being. Most of us, at one time or another, are impacted by mental health concerns. We have therapists that treat adults, children, and teens. If you don't even know where to start call or e-mail the office and we will help guide you in choosing the right therapist and check your insurance benefits. To learn more about each of our therapists and their individual specialties, please visit our website www.sbcounseling.com/therapists
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![Photo of Cherie L Spehar - Smiling Spirit Pathways - Cherie L. Spehar, LCSW, ACTP, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39f542bd-ed4a-4eea-9879-9bb13310cc44/1/320x400.png)
Smiling Spirit Pathways - Cherie L. Spehar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACTP, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
We’re all just walking each other home - Ram Dass. You find yourself standing at a crossroads, the weight of past traumas, daily stresses, and unspoken fears heavy on your shoulders. The voices of doubt and confusion echo in your mind, turning what was once a clear path into a tangled maze of uncertainty. Each decision feels monumental, each step forward feels shaky, contributing to a profound sense of overwhelm. It’s dark here, and the face in the mirror feels like a stranger, each day a battle with fear. Maybe you wake up each morning dreading the day ahead, gripped by a fear that’s both familiar and indescribable.
We’re all just walking each other home - Ram Dass. You find yourself standing at a crossroads, the weight of past traumas, daily stresses, and unspoken fears heavy on your shoulders. The voices of doubt and confusion echo in your mind, turning what was once a clear path into a tangled maze of uncertainty. Each decision feels monumental, each step forward feels shaky, contributing to a profound sense of overwhelm. It’s dark here, and the face in the mirror feels like a stranger, each day a battle with fear. Maybe you wake up each morning dreading the day ahead, gripped by a fear that’s both familiar and indescribable.
![Photo of Joan Stauffer, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae383382-a8af-4079-a9ad-4cbc43278910/1/320x400.jpeg)
My approach to working with clients is collaborative, strengths-based, compassionate, and client centered using CBT, mindfulness based, solutions focused, and trauma informed care to provide a healing and open experience.
My approach to working with clients is collaborative, strengths-based, compassionate, and client centered using CBT, mindfulness based, solutions focused, and trauma informed care to provide a healing and open experience.
![Photo of Maggie Powell, MS, CRC, LCMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83590f8a-bf2c-4aa7-8d5f-949f78b85911/1/320x400.png)
Hello! I am a DBT-informed and psychodynamically-oriented therapist working at Lifescapes Counseling Associates. My first priority is the quality of my relationships with my clients. I care deeply about our trust and rapport and know that a positive clinical relationship is necessary for therapy to be successful. I am currently taking continuing education courses at the Psychoanalytic Center of the Carolinas where I am working through an intensive psychoanalytic psychotherapy training program. These courses will allow me to increase the depth of our sessions and improve my understanding of you.
Hello! I am a DBT-informed and psychodynamically-oriented therapist working at Lifescapes Counseling Associates. My first priority is the quality of my relationships with my clients. I care deeply about our trust and rapport and know that a positive clinical relationship is necessary for therapy to be successful. I am currently taking continuing education courses at the Psychoanalytic Center of the Carolinas where I am working through an intensive psychoanalytic psychotherapy training program. These courses will allow me to increase the depth of our sessions and improve my understanding of you.
![Photo of Corinne Fisher-LaRoche, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a89674c-211b-45e0-8bc3-9d4e629de5f2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Corinne Fisher-LaRoche
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Therapy can help you overcome and cope with a number of challenges. It is my hope that you feel empowered after each session with tools that will last a lifetime. I have 25 yrs as a psychotherapist. Before moving to NC I had a private practice in northern CA and still maintain my license in CA and see clients remotely. Over the years I have broadened my client population to adolescents as well as adults. My specialty is anxiety but I see clients with a range of clinical issues or simply just coping with life events and transitions. Additionally, I am certified to provide clinical supervision to clinicians seeking their LCSW in NC
Therapy can help you overcome and cope with a number of challenges. It is my hope that you feel empowered after each session with tools that will last a lifetime. I have 25 yrs as a psychotherapist. Before moving to NC I had a private practice in northern CA and still maintain my license in CA and see clients remotely. Over the years I have broadened my client population to adolescents as well as adults. My specialty is anxiety but I see clients with a range of clinical issues or simply just coping with life events and transitions. Additionally, I am certified to provide clinical supervision to clinicians seeking their LCSW in NC
![Photo of Rachel Garfield, MA, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ed3b27e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Garfield
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
Waitlist for new clients
If you are feeling stuck or alone, we will collaborate to find the best approach for you. I’m Psychoanalytic/Attachment based and believe in balance between insight and action. I treat trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, addictive behaviors and relationships with adults. The goal is in healing the client's relationship within themselves as well as with others. We will work through your past in order to free you in the present. If you feel isolated, or trapped in the same repetitive, negative patterns or relationships there is a solution and there is hope. We will work together so that you can find Joy and be free to move forward.
If you are feeling stuck or alone, we will collaborate to find the best approach for you. I’m Psychoanalytic/Attachment based and believe in balance between insight and action. I treat trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, addictive behaviors and relationships with adults. The goal is in healing the client's relationship within themselves as well as with others. We will work through your past in order to free you in the present. If you feel isolated, or trapped in the same repetitive, negative patterns or relationships there is a solution and there is hope. We will work together so that you can find Joy and be free to move forward.
![Photo of Lindsay Patterson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a52446d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsay Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502 (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! Are you seeking change in your life, feeling depressed and unmotivated, or need a safe space for personal growth and discovery? Choosing to go to therapy takes courage and picking a therapist who you feel is a good fit for you can be a daunting task. I believe that the therapeutic process works best as a collaborative effort and that together we can make lasting changes. I feel strongly that balancing acceptance and change is valuable in this work and that clients can have both.
Accepting new clients! Are you seeking change in your life, feeling depressed and unmotivated, or need a safe space for personal growth and discovery? Choosing to go to therapy takes courage and picking a therapist who you feel is a good fit for you can be a daunting task. I believe that the therapeutic process works best as a collaborative effort and that together we can make lasting changes. I feel strongly that balancing acceptance and change is valuable in this work and that clients can have both.
![Photo of Jacquelyn Beech, MA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/926a4cb5-4303-417f-b43a-c3369918140c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jacquelyn Beech
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Something - some event / loneliness /feeling like a fraud / feeling like something is missing - brought you to look for a resource at this particular time. Wondering "what's wrong with me" What is the message in the difficulty you are having? The answers lie within that message. It is in discovering - or rediscovering - of who you are that you need. It is finding out and getting back to who you genuinely are - only then can you live authentically. Only then can you see your way through. Don't change into someone else. Find - rediscover - your own goodness - your own strengths. Rediscover who YOU are and be that fully.
Something - some event / loneliness /feeling like a fraud / feeling like something is missing - brought you to look for a resource at this particular time. Wondering "what's wrong with me" What is the message in the difficulty you are having? The answers lie within that message. It is in discovering - or rediscovering - of who you are that you need. It is finding out and getting back to who you genuinely are - only then can you live authentically. Only then can you see your way through. Don't change into someone else. Find - rediscover - your own goodness - your own strengths. Rediscover who YOU are and be that fully.
![Photo of Christi Baggett Stanforth, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42700501-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Christi Baggett Stanforth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502 (Online Only)
I offer strengths-based counseling for people 18+ years old who struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, ADHD, relationship problems, difficult transitions, and general life questions. My approach is collaborative and tailored to a client's needs: I use ideas and tools from ACT, interpersonal therapy, narrative therapy, mindfulness-based CBT, and systems and other therapies. I have particular experience with the challenges of blended families, long-distance relationships, and midlife career shifts. See cbstanforth.com or headway.co/providers.
I offer strengths-based counseling for people 18+ years old who struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, ADHD, relationship problems, difficult transitions, and general life questions. My approach is collaborative and tailored to a client's needs: I use ideas and tools from ACT, interpersonal therapy, narrative therapy, mindfulness-based CBT, and systems and other therapies. I have particular experience with the challenges of blended families, long-distance relationships, and midlife career shifts. See cbstanforth.com or headway.co/providers.
![Photo of Milota Ruth Salay - Simply Thrive Therapeutic Associates, MS, LCMHC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4541fdfc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Simply Thrive Therapeutic Associates
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
I understand that life can be challenging for anyone, and asking for help is okay. We can work together to identify the problems and focus on the solutions. You are a unique individual with many strengths including the ability to make healthy changes in your life.
Some of your difficulties may include anger, abuse, stress, low self-esteem, grief, depression, anxiety, addictive/compulsive behaviors, or conflict in relationships. If you are ready to regain control of your life, I can assist you in making that happen.
I understand that life can be challenging for anyone, and asking for help is okay. We can work together to identify the problems and focus on the solutions. You are a unique individual with many strengths including the ability to make healthy changes in your life.
Some of your difficulties may include anger, abuse, stress, low self-esteem, grief, depression, anxiety, addictive/compulsive behaviors, or conflict in relationships. If you are ready to regain control of your life, I can assist you in making that happen.
See more therapy options for Apex
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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.