Psychodynamic Therapists in Biltmore Forest, NC

Photo of Eric Belsterling, PhD stu, LCAS, CSAT, CMAT, CCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eric Belsterling
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD stu, LCAS, CSAT, CMAT, CCS
Verified Verified
Biltmore Forest, NC 28803
Waitlist for new clients
I believe there are many ways to achieve well-being and recovery. Presence, patience, compassion, acceptance, and curiosity are some of the qualities I possess. I believe competent therapy is a co-creation between the client and therapist and pride myself in embodying everything I expect of my clients. I'm passionate about stewarding people to create greater acceptance, balance, inner attunement and well-being in their lives. I specialize in all addiction disorders (i.e. substance use disorders, behavioral addictions such as problematic sexual behaviors, porn, food, internet gaming, etc.) and/or co-occurring disorders.
I believe there are many ways to achieve well-being and recovery. Presence, patience, compassion, acceptance, and curiosity are some of the qualities I possess. I believe competent therapy is a co-creation between the client and therapist and pride myself in embodying everything I expect of my clients. I'm passionate about stewarding people to create greater acceptance, balance, inner attunement and well-being in their lives. I specialize in all addiction disorders (i.e. substance use disorders, behavioral addictions such as problematic sexual behaviors, porn, food, internet gaming, etc.) and/or co-occurring disorders.
(828) 476-4278 View (828) 476-4278
Photo of Jamie Halberg - Jamie Halberg, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Halberg, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Biltmore Forest, NC 28803
You've been in therapy before. And you're psychologically savvy enough to know that growth doesn't have to do with finding a diagnosis and grabbing a few coping skills for the road. As any normal human does, we develop narratives and behavioral patterns to help us ignore, numb, protect, or compartmentalize our psychological conflicts. If you're reading this and you can relate, I see you. You need to find a therapist who can help you to dig deep enough to identify these patterns and change the old narratives. Some of these patterns MAY include:
You've been in therapy before. And you're psychologically savvy enough to know that growth doesn't have to do with finding a diagnosis and grabbing a few coping skills for the road. As any normal human does, we develop narratives and behavioral patterns to help us ignore, numb, protect, or compartmentalize our psychological conflicts. If you're reading this and you can relate, I see you. You need to find a therapist who can help you to dig deep enough to identify these patterns and change the old narratives. Some of these patterns MAY include:
(828) 675-2109 View (828) 675-2109
Photo of Sarah Barkley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Barkley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Biltmore Forest, NC 28803
Momentous work can be done with the right balance of challenge and heart to achieve insight and actionable forward-focused planning for my clients. I take an active and challenging therapeutic approach; melding traditional psychological approaches, life coaching modalities, and trauma work to tap into the small and large ways significant events and patterns may be holding clients back. Most of my clients come to me to fine tune areas of their life and are highly motivated to do the work, making the subtle and not so subtle shifts they've been craving.
Momentous work can be done with the right balance of challenge and heart to achieve insight and actionable forward-focused planning for my clients. I take an active and challenging therapeutic approach; melding traditional psychological approaches, life coaching modalities, and trauma work to tap into the small and large ways significant events and patterns may be holding clients back. Most of my clients come to me to fine tune areas of their life and are highly motivated to do the work, making the subtle and not so subtle shifts they've been craving.
(303) 957-7221 View (303) 957-7221
Photo of Brian Zayman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brian Zayman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Biltmore Forest, NC 28803  (Online Only)
Whether this is your first time seeing a therapist or not, seeking help can be difficult, and I thank you for viewing my page. No matter how long you have had to deal with your issues , we can collaborate to find approaches that move towards resolving them. After learning about you at the beginning, we will work together to determine your goals and frame an initial approach towards achieving them. I feel humbled and honored to be able to work with people who survived difficult life experiences. I have worked in clinics mostly in the NYC area, and have treated adolescents to the elderly and couples, with a wide variety of issues.
Whether this is your first time seeing a therapist or not, seeking help can be difficult, and I thank you for viewing my page. No matter how long you have had to deal with your issues , we can collaborate to find approaches that move towards resolving them. After learning about you at the beginning, we will work together to determine your goals and frame an initial approach towards achieving them. I feel humbled and honored to be able to work with people who survived difficult life experiences. I have worked in clinics mostly in the NYC area, and have treated adolescents to the elderly and couples, with a wide variety of issues.
(828) 360-9889 View (828) 360-9889
Photo of Amy Allemana, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Allemana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Biltmore Forest, NC 28803  (Online Only)
Did you know ages 45-55 are just as developmentally rich as adolescence? What if we saw aging as a spiritual path, and our body's symptoms of perimenopause and menopause as guides? A mid-life crisis is often characterized by an anxious sense of "is this all there is?" compounded by stressors related to caregiving, death, divorce, job loss and relationship dissatisfaction. This can create existential questions related to one's identity, purpose and meaning in life. Yet this mid-life chrysalis, is an opportunity to slow down, reflect and become more fully conscious of ourselves as women in the afternoon of our lives.
Did you know ages 45-55 are just as developmentally rich as adolescence? What if we saw aging as a spiritual path, and our body's symptoms of perimenopause and menopause as guides? A mid-life crisis is often characterized by an anxious sense of "is this all there is?" compounded by stressors related to caregiving, death, divorce, job loss and relationship dissatisfaction. This can create existential questions related to one's identity, purpose and meaning in life. Yet this mid-life chrysalis, is an opportunity to slow down, reflect and become more fully conscious of ourselves as women in the afternoon of our lives.
(828) 392-7840 View (828) 392-7840
Photo of John Benton, CADC, ICADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
John Benton
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC, ICADC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Biltmore Forest, NC 28803
Finding and navigating the path to recovery from addiction presents one of the more difficult, yet meaningful journeys the human spirit can take. This transformation, luckily, is something that no person ever has to do alone. Throughout the years of my personal recovery, I've developed a deep passion for connecting with others and human nature as it relates to feeling less alone in the world. Something I believe to be true is the idea that everything in our life connects. Through constellating these connections, an image emerges that which we can learn from.
Finding and navigating the path to recovery from addiction presents one of the more difficult, yet meaningful journeys the human spirit can take. This transformation, luckily, is something that no person ever has to do alone. Throughout the years of my personal recovery, I've developed a deep passion for connecting with others and human nature as it relates to feeling less alone in the world. Something I believe to be true is the idea that everything in our life connects. Through constellating these connections, an image emerges that which we can learn from.
(828) 471-4698 View (828) 471-4698
Photo of Jeff Beers - Jeff Beers, LMFT, PLLC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeff Beers, LMFT, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Biltmore Forest, NC 28803
I offer lively, growth-oriented consultation for people ready for change in their personal, professional, and creative lives. My years in practice have sharpened my abilities in close listening, flexible thinking, problem solving and effective communication. I’ve helped my clients address challenging dilemmas, accept difficult realities, enhance creative thinking and access their emotional intelligence. My clients most often find fresh perspective, new language, useful insight and direction to further develop their efforts and themselves. I’m not easily overwhelmed by strong feelings or complex issues, and I don’t judge.
I offer lively, growth-oriented consultation for people ready for change in their personal, professional, and creative lives. My years in practice have sharpened my abilities in close listening, flexible thinking, problem solving and effective communication. I’ve helped my clients address challenging dilemmas, accept difficult realities, enhance creative thinking and access their emotional intelligence. My clients most often find fresh perspective, new language, useful insight and direction to further develop their efforts and themselves. I’m not easily overwhelmed by strong feelings or complex issues, and I don’t judge.
(828) 518-2570 View (828) 518-2570
Photo of Christen Rinaldi, RMT, LCMHC
Christen Rinaldi
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, RMT, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Biltmore Forest, NC 28803
You already know yourself very well. And because of this- You are looking for a different kind of therapy space. You are seeking a space in which you can find humor, grace, and wonder while navigating this human experience. One in which your intuition, spirituality, and inner knowing will be honored and used as a tool to transform your lived experience. A space where context matters and is used to create new perspectives and deeper understanding. A space to unpack your stories, unravel your deepest beliefs, and become friends (yes… I said friends) with your inner shadowy parts.
You already know yourself very well. And because of this- You are looking for a different kind of therapy space. You are seeking a space in which you can find humor, grace, and wonder while navigating this human experience. One in which your intuition, spirituality, and inner knowing will be honored and used as a tool to transform your lived experience. A space where context matters and is used to create new perspectives and deeper understanding. A space to unpack your stories, unravel your deepest beliefs, and become friends (yes… I said friends) with your inner shadowy parts.
(828) 383-9640 View (828) 383-9640

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Christianna Van Dalsen, LCMHCA
Christianna Van Dalsen
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
Through dream work and psychodynamic therapy, we can uncover the deep-seated fears, desires, and unresolved issues in your mind.
I specialize in Dream Work and psychodynamic therapy. My clients seek answers like you do. Despite their deep intuition, creative spirit, and profound sensitivity, life feels confusing and disjointed. When they first come in, they're overwhelmed, they don’t trust their instincts, and they question their inner voice constantly. It feels like their dreams hold significant messages, like some part of themself is crying for attention, but they’re unsure of how to decipher them. In dreams and in life, they feel like there’s always a hidden meaning, a part of themself, that they’re missing.
Through dream work and psychodynamic therapy, we can uncover the deep-seated fears, desires, and unresolved issues in your mind.
I specialize in Dream Work and psychodynamic therapy. My clients seek answers like you do. Despite their deep intuition, creative spirit, and profound sensitivity, life feels confusing and disjointed. When they first come in, they're overwhelmed, they don’t trust their instincts, and they question their inner voice constantly. It feels like their dreams hold significant messages, like some part of themself is crying for attention, but they’re unsure of how to decipher them. In dreams and in life, they feel like there’s always a hidden meaning, a part of themself, that they’re missing.
(980) 372-5177 View (980) 372-5177
Photo of Chris Gantt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris Gantt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
Learning and practice in Psychodynamic Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Awareness, Circle of Security and Trauma-Focused Equine Assisted Psychotherapy have all served my holistic approach to the healing process.
I am here to help people who feel stuck in anxiety and depression to find their way through these challenging emotions to a sense of ease in a more authentic and satisfying relationship with life and themselves. My holistic practice is rooted in building a safe, supportive relationship and trusting your inner wisdom as we work side by side exploring life's challenges. Working together we'll discover your unique needs and strengths in developing our goals for treatment. I am committed to empathy and open-mindedness while utilizing therapeutic techniques with proven effectiveness.
Learning and practice in Psychodynamic Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Awareness, Circle of Security and Trauma-Focused Equine Assisted Psychotherapy have all served my holistic approach to the healing process.
I am here to help people who feel stuck in anxiety and depression to find their way through these challenging emotions to a sense of ease in a more authentic and satisfying relationship with life and themselves. My holistic practice is rooted in building a safe, supportive relationship and trusting your inner wisdom as we work side by side exploring life's challenges. Working together we'll discover your unique needs and strengths in developing our goals for treatment. I am committed to empathy and open-mindedness while utilizing therapeutic techniques with proven effectiveness.
(828) 232-8089 View (828) 232-8089
Photo of Melissa Middlebrook, LCSW, SEP, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Middlebrook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, RYT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
Waitlist for new clients
I take an experiential, integrative approach drawing from my extensive trainings & lived experience in mindfulness, somatic + nervous system based therapies, attachment theory and psychodynamic approaches.
None of us are immune to life's challenges and we also don't come with instructions on how to navigate these. We often carry our past experiences and stress without realizing it— to the point where we feel it not only emotionally, but also in our physical bodies. Research confirms the mind and body aren’t so separate after all, but more of an interdependent unit greatly influencing one another. Past traumas, anxiety, depression, feeling stuck, chronic illness, difficult life transition, caught in the cycles of shame + self criticism; these are all labels and struggles many of us identify with at some point, but they don't define us.
I take an experiential, integrative approach drawing from my extensive trainings & lived experience in mindfulness, somatic + nervous system based therapies, attachment theory and psychodynamic approaches.
None of us are immune to life's challenges and we also don't come with instructions on how to navigate these. We often carry our past experiences and stress without realizing it— to the point where we feel it not only emotionally, but also in our physical bodies. Research confirms the mind and body aren’t so separate after all, but more of an interdependent unit greatly influencing one another. Past traumas, anxiety, depression, feeling stuck, chronic illness, difficult life transition, caught in the cycles of shame + self criticism; these are all labels and struggles many of us identify with at some point, but they don't define us.
(828) 818-9110 View (828) 818-9110
Photo of Savannah Dettman, LCMHCA
Savannah Dettman
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
My style might be described as equally gentle and direct, and my approach is informed by person-centered, psychodynamic, and existential therapy.
Therapy helps us explore things that are too painful to be thought about alone. Together we’ll get curious about your lived experience and find a path toward meaning and hope.
My style might be described as equally gentle and direct, and my approach is informed by person-centered, psychodynamic, and existential therapy.
Therapy helps us explore things that are too painful to be thought about alone. Together we’ll get curious about your lived experience and find a path toward meaning and hope.
(828) 554-7699 View (828) 554-7699
Photo of Josh Stone, MEd , LCMHC-A, NCC, Counselor
Josh Stone
Counselor, MEd , LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
Grounded in a deeply humanistic and psychodynamic framework- I work with individuals as they detangle themselves from the scars of their past and the unhelpful narratives that result.
There is no need to struggle alone, and yet we often do. Our suffering may appear in many different forms, from depression and anxiety, to relationship issues, substance use and more. It’s time to shed this idea that “we have to have it all together” and allow ourselves be human for a moment. In this honest space, my clients tend to become more in touch with their authentic selves and establish beliefs, values, narratives and take steps towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Grounded in a deeply humanistic and psychodynamic framework- I work with individuals as they detangle themselves from the scars of their past and the unhelpful narratives that result.
There is no need to struggle alone, and yet we often do. Our suffering may appear in many different forms, from depression and anxiety, to relationship issues, substance use and more. It’s time to shed this idea that “we have to have it all together” and allow ourselves be human for a moment. In this honest space, my clients tend to become more in touch with their authentic selves and establish beliefs, values, narratives and take steps towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(828) 800-9401 View (828) 800-9401
Photo of Aaron Priest, NCC, LCMHC
Aaron Priest
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
I provide psychodynamic therapy to individuals (ages 14+) and couples. This type of therapy addresses the underlying causes and meanings of unwanted symptoms and dysfunctional patterns. It heals by bringing unconscious content to consciousness and by fostering deeper relationships with parts of ourselves we previously ignored, denied or even disdained. Psychodynamic therapy is often well suited for those who haven’t responded well to other types of therapy.
I provide psychodynamic therapy to individuals (ages 14+) and couples. This type of therapy addresses the underlying causes and meanings of unwanted symptoms and dysfunctional patterns. It heals by bringing unconscious content to consciousness and by fostering deeper relationships with parts of ourselves we previously ignored, denied or even disdained. Psychodynamic therapy is often well suited for those who haven’t responded well to other types of therapy.
(984) 205-6973 View (984) 205-6973
Photo of Chris E Carson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris E Carson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
Waitlist for new clients
I have specific post graduate training in psychodynamic psychotherapy with individuals and couples from the Washington School of Psychiatry.
I am a psychotherapist for adult individuals and couples. Do you want stronger, clearer and healthier relationships? My clients consist mainly of open minded, artistic and unconventional persons wanting more intimacy and connection or wanting to explore their innate gifts and talents. I also work with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and non-binary persons. However, I love working with anyone who is seeking growth, wholeness and perspective.
I have specific post graduate training in psychodynamic psychotherapy with individuals and couples from the Washington School of Psychiatry.
I am a psychotherapist for adult individuals and couples. Do you want stronger, clearer and healthier relationships? My clients consist mainly of open minded, artistic and unconventional persons wanting more intimacy and connection or wanting to explore their innate gifts and talents. I also work with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and non-binary persons. However, I love working with anyone who is seeking growth, wholeness and perspective.
(804) 651-3941 View (804) 651-3941
Photo of Katy Ibur, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katy Ibur
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
My approach is psychodynamic and relational, where the therapeutic relationship is key in the healing process.
I support long-term couples struggling with conflict and disconnection who may feel unsure how to solve their challenges or rekindle their loving dynamic. I help couples improve communication skills, identify and express underlying vulnerable emotions, and ultimately deepen their intimacy and romantic connection. I also support folks with dysfunctional family and/or religious histories, who are interested in alternative healing approaches. This may entail witnessing the pain and patterns of the past, and then potentially reclaiming and reimagining their relationship with spirituality.
My approach is psychodynamic and relational, where the therapeutic relationship is key in the healing process.
I support long-term couples struggling with conflict and disconnection who may feel unsure how to solve their challenges or rekindle their loving dynamic. I help couples improve communication skills, identify and express underlying vulnerable emotions, and ultimately deepen their intimacy and romantic connection. I also support folks with dysfunctional family and/or religious histories, who are interested in alternative healing approaches. This may entail witnessing the pain and patterns of the past, and then potentially reclaiming and reimagining their relationship with spirituality.
(708) 801-6613 View (708) 801-6613
Photo of Robert Parkinson, LCSW, LCASA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robert Parkinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCASA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
By incorporating EMDR techniques within a psychodynamic framework, I will help you find relief from oppressive thoughts and impulses and move towards a more balanced and empowered state of being.
Let's get curious, and work together to unlock the transformative power of your unconscious mind! I believe that through the process of therapy we can relieve you from the shackles of burdensome negative thoughts and discover true self and self love. As a psychodynamic therapist, I am deeply committed to facilitating transformative change and healing in the lives of my clients. If you are ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and healing, I am here to walk alongside you! I work with men, women, adults, adolescents, couples and everything in-between.
By incorporating EMDR techniques within a psychodynamic framework, I will help you find relief from oppressive thoughts and impulses and move towards a more balanced and empowered state of being.
Let's get curious, and work together to unlock the transformative power of your unconscious mind! I believe that through the process of therapy we can relieve you from the shackles of burdensome negative thoughts and discover true self and self love. As a psychodynamic therapist, I am deeply committed to facilitating transformative change and healing in the lives of my clients. If you are ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and healing, I am here to walk alongside you! I work with men, women, adults, adolescents, couples and everything in-between.
(828) 532-3368 View (828) 532-3368
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Asheville
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
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.
(828) 571-7133 View (828) 571-7133
Photo of Lissa Friedman, PhD, LMHC, ATR, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lissa Friedman
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LMHC, ATR, CHT
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
I am eclectic, psychodynamic, humanistic, behavioral, mindful, whatever works.
www.lissafriedman.com - I like to help people find the deep knot of their pattern, gently lovingly untie it, and bring healing to the wound. I have been a therapist for about 30 years, and in private Practice since 1987. While my style is eclectic, it is my warmth, compassion, and acceptance that underlie all of my work. I try to provide an environment, much like a container, for my clients to open to their own natural self compassion and acceptance. Seeing each person as whole, rather than deficient provides an environment for people to come to a natural place of healing.
I am eclectic, psychodynamic, humanistic, behavioral, mindful, whatever works.
www.lissafriedman.com - I like to help people find the deep knot of their pattern, gently lovingly untie it, and bring healing to the wound. I have been a therapist for about 30 years, and in private Practice since 1987. While my style is eclectic, it is my warmth, compassion, and acceptance that underlie all of my work. I try to provide an environment, much like a container, for my clients to open to their own natural self compassion and acceptance. Seeing each person as whole, rather than deficient provides an environment for people to come to a natural place of healing.
(352) 578-3092 View (352) 578-3092
Photo of Cullen Sprague, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cullen Sprague
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
Are you questioning your sexual, gender, racial, or family identity? Are you struggling to make peace with the past while staying in the present? Are your behaviors not in alignment with your values? Regardless, you are refusing to minimize the issues you face by initiating therapy and prioritizing yourself. This courage will be the foundation for our work. I am a warm and engaging therapist that has success addressing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and anger. I have a psychodynamic framework, utilize EMDR to address trauma, IFS, and mindfulness for mood management. I provide individual counseling for ages 18 and above.
Are you questioning your sexual, gender, racial, or family identity? Are you struggling to make peace with the past while staying in the present? Are your behaviors not in alignment with your values? Regardless, you are refusing to minimize the issues you face by initiating therapy and prioritizing yourself. This courage will be the foundation for our work. I am a warm and engaging therapist that has success addressing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and anger. I have a psychodynamic framework, utilize EMDR to address trauma, IFS, and mindfulness for mood management. I provide individual counseling for ages 18 and above.
(773) 355-4595 View (773) 355-4595

See more therapy options for Biltmore Forest

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.