Psychodynamic Therapists in Princeton, NJ

Photo of Josee Graybill - The Nomad Center for Counseling, Inc, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Nomad Center for Counseling, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
We provide individual, family and couples therapy based largely on the foundational principles of psychodynamic psychotherapy.
My goal in working with all who come into my office, be it child, adolescent or adult is healing. I founded The Nomad Center for Counseling out of a desire to offer healing in a compassionate and creative therapeutic setting regardless of culture or country of origin. I believe that each individual has an innate ability to heal and the capacity to move beyond the resolution of symptoms to a deeper, more authentic understanding of themselves and of life. I strive to create a safe and nurturing environment where people can allow their true selves to emerge, whether they are 4 or 74 years old.
We provide individual, family and couples therapy based largely on the foundational principles of psychodynamic psychotherapy.
My goal in working with all who come into my office, be it child, adolescent or adult is healing. I founded The Nomad Center for Counseling out of a desire to offer healing in a compassionate and creative therapeutic setting regardless of culture or country of origin. I believe that each individual has an innate ability to heal and the capacity to move beyond the resolution of symptoms to a deeper, more authentic understanding of themselves and of life. I strive to create a safe and nurturing environment where people can allow their true selves to emerge, whether they are 4 or 74 years old.
(609) 447-4171 View (609) 447-4171
Photo of Karyn Bristol, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karyn Bristol
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
I also have training in the most researched and effective psychotherapies-- Psychodynamic Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I have over 20 years of experience helping adolescents, adults, and couples navigate difficult times, confusing and debilitating feelings, and complicated relationships. My treatment approach starts with the client--with the belief that everyone is exquisitely unique--and therefore therapy is not one-size-fits-all. I believe that being genuine with clients is essential; in my office you will find a healing conversation, not talking to a stone wall.
I also have training in the most researched and effective psychotherapies-- Psychodynamic Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I have over 20 years of experience helping adolescents, adults, and couples navigate difficult times, confusing and debilitating feelings, and complicated relationships. My treatment approach starts with the client--with the belief that everyone is exquisitely unique--and therefore therapy is not one-size-fits-all. I believe that being genuine with clients is essential; in my office you will find a healing conversation, not talking to a stone wall.
(508) 214-4216 View (508) 214-4216
Photo of Jill Stein, LCSW, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Stein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540  (Online Only)
Over the years, I have had training in Gestalt, family systems, psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapy.
I work with individuals, couples (including LGBT), older adolescents, college students and seniors. My areas of speciality include anxiety, depression, relationships and life stage issues. With couples, I often find that it's helpful to shuttle between individual issues and relationship issues, depending on what is relevant at the time.
Over the years, I have had training in Gestalt, family systems, psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapy.
I work with individuals, couples (including LGBT), older adolescents, college students and seniors. My areas of speciality include anxiety, depression, relationships and life stage issues. With couples, I often find that it's helpful to shuttle between individual issues and relationship issues, depending on what is relevant at the time.
(609) 843-2065 View (609) 843-2065
Photo of Sady Kim, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sady Kim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
I integrate relational psychodynamic theory, mindfulness, and somatic perspectives in helping clients better understand themselves and in resolving conflicts.
Psychotherapy is a process that allows for healing and meaningful connection. Past struggles and difficult thought patterns can cause strain on your sense of self and your relationships. My goal is to provide a warm and supportive space that allows you to share and explore what you need. As your therapist I would take great care in hearing your story and attending to our therapeutic relationship. I work with individuals, couples, and families across a spectrum of identities and backgrounds on their path toward wholeness.
I integrate relational psychodynamic theory, mindfulness, and somatic perspectives in helping clients better understand themselves and in resolving conflicts.
Psychotherapy is a process that allows for healing and meaningful connection. Past struggles and difficult thought patterns can cause strain on your sense of self and your relationships. My goal is to provide a warm and supportive space that allows you to share and explore what you need. As your therapist I would take great care in hearing your story and attending to our therapeutic relationship. I work with individuals, couples, and families across a spectrum of identities and backgrounds on their path toward wholeness.
(973) 566-5131 View (973) 566-5131
Photo of Shams Elbedeiwy, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shams Elbedeiwy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
I draw on elements of CBT, DBT, and psychodynamic.
My ideal client is a young adult under the age of 35 who may have difficulty with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, adjusting to new circumstances, stress, family strain, relationship issues, and cultural stress.
I draw on elements of CBT, DBT, and psychodynamic.
My ideal client is a young adult under the age of 35 who may have difficulty with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, adjusting to new circumstances, stress, family strain, relationship issues, and cultural stress.
(609) 293-5163 View (609) 293-5163
Photo of Abigail Hamilton, PsyD, Psychologist
Abigail Hamilton
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08542
Study after study indicates that what "works" in therapy is the quality of the relationship between the client and therapist. I create a strong relationship in which my clients feel safe and understood while sharing and exploring their lives. I conceptualize from a psychodynamic orientation and contour treatment to the specific needs of the individual.
Study after study indicates that what "works" in therapy is the quality of the relationship between the client and therapist. I create a strong relationship in which my clients feel safe and understood while sharing and exploring their lives. I conceptualize from a psychodynamic orientation and contour treatment to the specific needs of the individual.
(609) 375-8151 View (609) 375-8151
Photo of Margo Hurewitz, PsyD, Psychologist
Margo Hurewitz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
I utilize an integrative treatment approach involving both psychodynamic as well as cognitive behavioral therapy.
I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in treating children, adolescents and adults who are struggling with binge eating, anorexia, and bulimia as well as other psychiatric conditions such as depression and anxiety. I gained my clinical experience and expertise by working as a primary therapist on the Eating Disorders Unit at the University Medical Center at Princeton. I am committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment in order to help my patients identify the underlying issues contributing to their eating disorder as well as develop healthy coping skills.
I utilize an integrative treatment approach involving both psychodynamic as well as cognitive behavioral therapy.
I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in treating children, adolescents and adults who are struggling with binge eating, anorexia, and bulimia as well as other psychiatric conditions such as depression and anxiety. I gained my clinical experience and expertise by working as a primary therapist on the Eating Disorders Unit at the University Medical Center at Princeton. I am committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment in order to help my patients identify the underlying issues contributing to their eating disorder as well as develop healthy coping skills.
(609) 336-4655 View (609) 336-4655
Photo of Daniel Goldberg, PhD, Psychologist
Daniel Goldberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540  (Online Only)
I have spent over 15 years receiving advanced training in psychodynamic individual therapy, couples therapy (including Imago and Emotionally Focused Therapy), family therapy, sex therapy, EMDR, and Jungian psychology.
With over 25 years of experience in private practice and teaching other professionals, I work with adults, couples, and adolescents. Maybe more than anything else, the most important part of psychotherapy is the bond that is built between the therapist and person or couple seeking treatment. Warmth, humor, understanding the root of the problem, and the capacity to be frank and solution-oriented, when needed, all combine to promote a safe environment where people can find a way through their particular problem.
I have spent over 15 years receiving advanced training in psychodynamic individual therapy, couples therapy (including Imago and Emotionally Focused Therapy), family therapy, sex therapy, EMDR, and Jungian psychology.
With over 25 years of experience in private practice and teaching other professionals, I work with adults, couples, and adolescents. Maybe more than anything else, the most important part of psychotherapy is the bond that is built between the therapist and person or couple seeking treatment. Warmth, humor, understanding the root of the problem, and the capacity to be frank and solution-oriented, when needed, all combine to promote a safe environment where people can find a way through their particular problem.
(856) 452-0662 View (856) 452-0662
Photo of Amy Bibb-Ford, LCSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Bibb-Ford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08542
Adjusting to life transitions, interpersonal struggles, or needing to look inward are compelling reasons to seek therapy. As a therapist with 25+ years of experience, I establish a confidential, trusting relationship and help individuals, couples, and families cope and move forward. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and transparent, informed by advanced training in treating trauma, evidence-based Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), Accelerated Experiential Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Core Self Reclamation Therapy (CSRT) and family therapy.
Adjusting to life transitions, interpersonal struggles, or needing to look inward are compelling reasons to seek therapy. As a therapist with 25+ years of experience, I establish a confidential, trusting relationship and help individuals, couples, and families cope and move forward. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and transparent, informed by advanced training in treating trauma, evidence-based Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), Accelerated Experiential Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Core Self Reclamation Therapy (CSRT) and family therapy.
(484) 538-5243 View (484) 538-5243
Photo of Vera Papp, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vera Papp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08542
I am a licensed clinical social worker with a background in eating disorders, anxiety and depression. I am very familiar with psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapies. I have worked with clients of all ages and backgrounds. I believe that we all have the capacity to gain strength from and overcome our struggles.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with a background in eating disorders, anxiety and depression. I am very familiar with psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapies. I have worked with clients of all ages and backgrounds. I believe that we all have the capacity to gain strength from and overcome our struggles.
(609) 224-1635 View (609) 224-1635
Photo of Laurie Stern, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
THERAPEUTIC APPROACH - With your particular needs in mind, I use various approaches--trauma-focused, mindfulness-based stress reduction, somatic, cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and humanistic therapies.
So many issues and roadblocks are too hard to face alone. Some can feel overwhelming. My role is to partner with you to help you find solutions and peace of mind. I have 20 years of experience as a therapist, helping people with anxiety, depression, trauma (past and present), relationship difficulties, grief and loss, cancer treatment, cancer survivorship, recovery from addiction, and more.
THERAPEUTIC APPROACH - With your particular needs in mind, I use various approaches--trauma-focused, mindfulness-based stress reduction, somatic, cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and humanistic therapies.
So many issues and roadblocks are too hard to face alone. Some can feel overwhelming. My role is to partner with you to help you find solutions and peace of mind. I have 20 years of experience as a therapist, helping people with anxiety, depression, trauma (past and present), relationship difficulties, grief and loss, cancer treatment, cancer survivorship, recovery from addiction, and more.
(908) 989-0930 View (908) 989-0930
Photo of Diane Vanucci, MA, LPC, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diane Vanucci
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RYT
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
I am DBT informed and supplement a psychodynamic approach with Mindfully based Cognitive Therapy, CBT as well as breathing and meditation.
"We don't remember days or years, we remember moments." Let this be the moment you decide to take a step to change your life by reaching out. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 25+ years experience specializing in Eating Disorders and Body Image Issues. I work with individuals to create a safe, nurturing environment , collaborating on a treatment strategy that best suits their needs. Together we work to develop healthy strategies to reduce symptoms. Experience includes Inpatient Eating Disorders (Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center), Women's Program Princeton House, inpatient psychiatric units, private practice.
I am DBT informed and supplement a psychodynamic approach with Mindfully based Cognitive Therapy, CBT as well as breathing and meditation.
"We don't remember days or years, we remember moments." Let this be the moment you decide to take a step to change your life by reaching out. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 25+ years experience specializing in Eating Disorders and Body Image Issues. I work with individuals to create a safe, nurturing environment , collaborating on a treatment strategy that best suits their needs. Together we work to develop healthy strategies to reduce symptoms. Experience includes Inpatient Eating Disorders (Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center), Women's Program Princeton House, inpatient psychiatric units, private practice.
(609) 269-2641 x0000 View (609) 269-2641 x0000
Photo of Claire R Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claire R Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
The first step is looking for help and the next crucial piece is finding rapport with a therapist—maybe the most important part of therapy! I have training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Imago, Mindfulness, and broader psychodynamic work and take a creative approach in treatment, putting together a range of interventions tailored to each individual.
Have you been thinking about therapy for a while, wondering if it's right for you? Are you looking for change in your life? These are questions which we may ask ourselves. I enjoy working with clients who are interested in change, increasing self-awareness, identifying patterns of thoughts and behaviors that have shaped their lives and then trying to reconfigure these in positive, grow-oriented ways. While I have worked with clients of all ages, across the lifespan, I do have deeper experience working with college and post-collegiate aged adults, new mothers, and anyone dealing with life transitions.
The first step is looking for help and the next crucial piece is finding rapport with a therapist—maybe the most important part of therapy! I have training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Imago, Mindfulness, and broader psychodynamic work and take a creative approach in treatment, putting together a range of interventions tailored to each individual.
Have you been thinking about therapy for a while, wondering if it's right for you? Are you looking for change in your life? These are questions which we may ask ourselves. I enjoy working with clients who are interested in change, increasing self-awareness, identifying patterns of thoughts and behaviors that have shaped their lives and then trying to reconfigure these in positive, grow-oriented ways. While I have worked with clients of all ages, across the lifespan, I do have deeper experience working with college and post-collegiate aged adults, new mothers, and anyone dealing with life transitions.
(609) 375-0611 View (609) 375-0611
Photo of Emily Gilmore, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Gilmore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
My area of specialized training is in EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and psychodynamic therapies.
Offering in-person and virtual sessions! I come with a curiosity about attachment and early stages of development. My treatment approach is to help restore connection to yourself and your relationships through psychodynamic and trauma-informed therapies. Many people share how their negative beliefs and emotional discomfort can “feel stuck” in their mind and nervous system. I work with clients to resolve present day problems and longstanding patterns in their lives (anxiety, phobias, PTSD, Depression and so on.) through the integration of mind, body and brain processing techniques.
My area of specialized training is in EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and psychodynamic therapies.
Offering in-person and virtual sessions! I come with a curiosity about attachment and early stages of development. My treatment approach is to help restore connection to yourself and your relationships through psychodynamic and trauma-informed therapies. Many people share how their negative beliefs and emotional discomfort can “feel stuck” in their mind and nervous system. I work with clients to resolve present day problems and longstanding patterns in their lives (anxiety, phobias, PTSD, Depression and so on.) through the integration of mind, body and brain processing techniques.
(609) 755-3221 View (609) 755-3221
Photo of Simaza Sadek, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Simaza Sadek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540  (Online Only)
My approach utilizes a combination of psychodynamic, trauma-informed, and intersectional feminist theories to enhance well-being.
Finding a therapist can be difficult, especially when experiencing life challenges, symptoms of depression or anxiety, or other stressors. For those of us with marginalized identities, it is crucial to identify spaces where we can explore and address these issues. In my practice, I work with women and LGBTQIA+ people to address issues related to identity, life transitions, family, work, relational conflict, self-esteem, and shame. I specialize in working with the relational others (e.g., partners, spouses, family, and friends) of transgender people to explore self-identity and transition (social, emotional, physical, & medical).
My approach utilizes a combination of psychodynamic, trauma-informed, and intersectional feminist theories to enhance well-being.
Finding a therapist can be difficult, especially when experiencing life challenges, symptoms of depression or anxiety, or other stressors. For those of us with marginalized identities, it is crucial to identify spaces where we can explore and address these issues. In my practice, I work with women and LGBTQIA+ people to address issues related to identity, life transitions, family, work, relational conflict, self-esteem, and shame. I specialize in working with the relational others (e.g., partners, spouses, family, and friends) of transgender people to explore self-identity and transition (social, emotional, physical, & medical).
(609) 928-7452 View (609) 928-7452
Photo of Michal Nina Saraf, PsyD, Psychologist
Michal Nina Saraf
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
I have broad training with a foundation in psychodynamic theory and practice buttressed by ACT, DBT, CBT, addiction intervention, and mindfulness skills.
I have 30 years of experience in a range of settings with people of many different backgrounds. My professional experience in concert with my personal journey enable me to focus on the person in the room and strive to understand their unique needs, goals and how psychotherapy can help in this process. I believe that the psychotherapy relationship provides an ideal forum for helping people move towards optimal functioning framed by their values and goals. I provide a safe place to address issues of mood, thinking, behavior, transition, adjustment, interpersonal conflict, anxiety, trauma and any other life challenge.
I have broad training with a foundation in psychodynamic theory and practice buttressed by ACT, DBT, CBT, addiction intervention, and mindfulness skills.
I have 30 years of experience in a range of settings with people of many different backgrounds. My professional experience in concert with my personal journey enable me to focus on the person in the room and strive to understand their unique needs, goals and how psychotherapy can help in this process. I believe that the psychotherapy relationship provides an ideal forum for helping people move towards optimal functioning framed by their values and goals. I provide a safe place to address issues of mood, thinking, behavior, transition, adjustment, interpersonal conflict, anxiety, trauma and any other life challenge.
(609) 436-5136 View (609) 436-5136
Photo of Susan Freedman Ouslander, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Freedman Ouslander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
I have over 25 years of experience in private practice, and use a variety of therapeutic approaches including psychodynamic, solution-focused, family systems, trauma informed, and attachment based.
I provide therapy that is goal-oriented, compassionate, and collaborative. Whether you're dealing with old hurts that never fully healed, or a current problem or relationship issue that you haven't been able to sort out, I can guide you in gaining insight and clarity to help you move in the right direction. While I use a variety of treatment methods and modalities, the foundation of successful therapy is the therapeutic bond created from trust, caring, and respect. I welcome the opportunity to work together to identify your goals and build a treatment plan that works for you.
I have over 25 years of experience in private practice, and use a variety of therapeutic approaches including psychodynamic, solution-focused, family systems, trauma informed, and attachment based.
I provide therapy that is goal-oriented, compassionate, and collaborative. Whether you're dealing with old hurts that never fully healed, or a current problem or relationship issue that you haven't been able to sort out, I can guide you in gaining insight and clarity to help you move in the right direction. While I use a variety of treatment methods and modalities, the foundation of successful therapy is the therapeutic bond created from trust, caring, and respect. I welcome the opportunity to work together to identify your goals and build a treatment plan that works for you.
(609) 912-3617 View (609) 912-3617
Photo of Antonia C Fried, PsyD, Psychologist
Antonia C Fried
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08542
I have expertise in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Hypnotherapy, EMDR, and the Inter-Subjective Psychodynamic approach.
A meaningful and attuned connection between therapist and client is the best predictor of a successful treatment. My first goal in our therapy is to develop a good understanding of your perspective, concerns and needs. I believe in working collaboratively with you to move in the direction you most wish to go. My areas of practice include psychotherapy for adolescents, adults, couples and families. I also provide consultation to study abroad programs and supervision for mental health professionals.
I have expertise in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Hypnotherapy, EMDR, and the Inter-Subjective Psychodynamic approach.
A meaningful and attuned connection between therapist and client is the best predictor of a successful treatment. My first goal in our therapy is to develop a good understanding of your perspective, concerns and needs. I believe in working collaboratively with you to move in the direction you most wish to go. My areas of practice include psychotherapy for adolescents, adults, couples and families. I also provide consultation to study abroad programs and supervision for mental health professionals.
(609) 531-0002 View (609) 531-0002
Photo of Christopher Wei, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher Wei
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
My approach is a modern integration of psychodynamic and existential psychotherapy—greatly informed by both current neurobiological research and Buddhist psychology.
My practice focuses on helping adolescents and adults who are struggling to overcome anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorders. I have particular expertise in working with men of all ages. I also focus on couples that are struggling to resolve differences and achieve greater harmony and intimacy. Often, differing parenting styles contribute to disconnects within a couple, particularly when parenting children with emotional, behavioral or developmental challenges and differences. I work with such couples to create a more unified parenting structure and to strike the important balance of familial obligation and self-care.
My approach is a modern integration of psychodynamic and existential psychotherapy—greatly informed by both current neurobiological research and Buddhist psychology.
My practice focuses on helping adolescents and adults who are struggling to overcome anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorders. I have particular expertise in working with men of all ages. I also focus on couples that are struggling to resolve differences and achieve greater harmony and intimacy. Often, differing parenting styles contribute to disconnects within a couple, particularly when parenting children with emotional, behavioral or developmental challenges and differences. I work with such couples to create a more unified parenting structure and to strike the important balance of familial obligation and self-care.
(609) 651-8403 View (609) 651-8403
Photo of Ann R Favaloro, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ann R Favaloro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
My work with clients shows me that a balance of psychodynamic and mindfulness-based approaches can be life changing.
My practice offers caring and knowledgeable support. It takes courage to pursue therapy, so I provide a warm and non-judgmental environment in which effective therapy can take place. Areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, grief and loss, life transitions and relationship issues. In my practice I help you to consider and honor your whole self : mind, body emotions and spirit. Different approaches are called for at different times in life. Sometimes you just need extra support and coping strategies to get through a rough time, or sometimes going deeper to gain insight will transform old patterns.
My work with clients shows me that a balance of psychodynamic and mindfulness-based approaches can be life changing.
My practice offers caring and knowledgeable support. It takes courage to pursue therapy, so I provide a warm and non-judgmental environment in which effective therapy can take place. Areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, grief and loss, life transitions and relationship issues. In my practice I help you to consider and honor your whole self : mind, body emotions and spirit. Different approaches are called for at different times in life. Sometimes you just need extra support and coping strategies to get through a rough time, or sometimes going deeper to gain insight will transform old patterns.
(609) 357-4838 View (609) 357-4838
1
...
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.