Psychodynamic Therapists in Cheltenham, PA

Photo of Marilyn Luber, PhD, Psychologist
Marilyn Luber
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cheltenham, PA 19012
My approach is based on human development, EMDR, client-oriented, psychodynamic, somatic, systems psychotherapies, hypnosis, and biofeedback.
I help individuals and couples work on trauma, psychological and relational issues and behaviors so that they can resolve them and enrich their lives. I have been a clinical psychologist since the mid-eighties and I view our work together as a collaborative process. I will begin by learning about and understanding you and your problem and we will figure out together what has contributed to your difficulties. The next step is to create a treatment plan tailored to you and your goal/s. Treatment consists of resolving these difficulties and re-accessing joy and interest in life.
My approach is based on human development, EMDR, client-oriented, psychodynamic, somatic, systems psychotherapies, hypnosis, and biofeedback.
I help individuals and couples work on trauma, psychological and relational issues and behaviors so that they can resolve them and enrich their lives. I have been a clinical psychologist since the mid-eighties and I view our work together as a collaborative process. I will begin by learning about and understanding you and your problem and we will figure out together what has contributed to your difficulties. The next step is to create a treatment plan tailored to you and your goal/s. Treatment consists of resolving these difficulties and re-accessing joy and interest in life.
(215) 995-5018 View (215) 995-5018
Photo of Robert Kravis, PsyD, Psychologist
Robert Kravis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Cheltenham, PA 19012
I specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy with children, adolescents and adults.
I believe that most personal problems have developed over time and need careful and systematic exploration in order to be understood and modified. This calls for a conjoint effort in which both therapist and client collaborate to expand understanding. In my practice this occurs as a trusting, meaningful relationship develops, making it possible for me to develop a thorough understanding which I can then share with my client. I believe that symptoms are indications of underlying issues of which most people are only partially aware. As the therapy brings there issues into conscious awareness they can be effectively addressed.
I specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy with children, adolescents and adults.
I believe that most personal problems have developed over time and need careful and systematic exploration in order to be understood and modified. This calls for a conjoint effort in which both therapist and client collaborate to expand understanding. In my practice this occurs as a trusting, meaningful relationship develops, making it possible for me to develop a thorough understanding which I can then share with my client. I believe that symptoms are indications of underlying issues of which most people are only partially aware. As the therapy brings there issues into conscious awareness they can be effectively addressed.
(215) 600-4703 View (215) 600-4703
Photo of Elizabeth McElroy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth McElroy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cheltenham, PA 19012
Waitlist for new clients
Finding a therapist (for the first time ever or just the first time in awhile) can be overwhelming; I can make it easier for you. If you are grieving a loss, managing a chronic illness, or having trouble adjusting to changes in your life, I can help. You are the expert in your own life; I want to empower you to tell your story without fear of judgment. My role in our work together is to listen to your struggles, remind you of your strengths, and find a way to honor your losses.
Finding a therapist (for the first time ever or just the first time in awhile) can be overwhelming; I can make it easier for you. If you are grieving a loss, managing a chronic illness, or having trouble adjusting to changes in your life, I can help. You are the expert in your own life; I want to empower you to tell your story without fear of judgment. My role in our work together is to listen to your struggles, remind you of your strengths, and find a way to honor your losses.
(215) 608-6953 View (215) 608-6953
Photo of Jacqueline Falkenheim, PhD, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacqueline Falkenheim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cheltenham, PA 19012
Why seek psychotherapy? Are you feeling uncomfortable in your relationships, misunderstood, overwhelmed, helpless, depressed, or anxious, and unable to fulfill your needs and desires? I have spent many years assisting people grow and make emotional changes that help them feel more buoyant, successful and expansive in all aspects of their lives. I aim to create an environment that is nurturing, tender, safe and conducive to the exploration of your wishes, resources, disappointments and fears. My goal is to attend to the complexity of a person's experience, offering you the time and space to become known contentedly to yourself and others.
Why seek psychotherapy? Are you feeling uncomfortable in your relationships, misunderstood, overwhelmed, helpless, depressed, or anxious, and unable to fulfill your needs and desires? I have spent many years assisting people grow and make emotional changes that help them feel more buoyant, successful and expansive in all aspects of their lives. I aim to create an environment that is nurturing, tender, safe and conducive to the exploration of your wishes, resources, disappointments and fears. My goal is to attend to the complexity of a person's experience, offering you the time and space to become known contentedly to yourself and others.
(610) 915-8252 View (610) 915-8252
Photo of Bonnie Carpenter, EdD, Psychologist
Bonnie Carpenter
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Cheltenham, PA 19012
People come to treatment for a variety of reasons.I view each person as unique and strive to assist individuals to overcome challenges and meet the goals that are important in their lives. As we work to let go of behaviors, thoughts and feelings that are not useful in the present, new healthier patterns can emerge and be adopted. Treatment is always focused on achieving a greater sense of comfort and satisfaction, psychologically, emotionally physically and spiritually.
People come to treatment for a variety of reasons.I view each person as unique and strive to assist individuals to overcome challenges and meet the goals that are important in their lives. As we work to let go of behaviors, thoughts and feelings that are not useful in the present, new healthier patterns can emerge and be adopted. Treatment is always focused on achieving a greater sense of comfort and satisfaction, psychologically, emotionally physically and spiritually.
(215) 995-4087 View (215) 995-4087
Photo of Stewart Hockenberry, PhD, Psychologist
Stewart Hockenberry
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheltenham, PA 19012
Each of us comes to psychotherapy for different reasons, and while no two psychotherapy journeys will be alike, we all require the same essential conditions of empathy, acceptance, and supportive encouragement to examine our lives with an attitude of curiosity and a creative vision for change. As a licensed psychologist with a wide-range of training and clinical experience, I am committed to establishing a therapeutic relationship that is dedicated toward understanding the circumstances that have brought you to this point in your life and in drawing upon your strengths and resources for taking your life in a new direction.
Each of us comes to psychotherapy for different reasons, and while no two psychotherapy journeys will be alike, we all require the same essential conditions of empathy, acceptance, and supportive encouragement to examine our lives with an attitude of curiosity and a creative vision for change. As a licensed psychologist with a wide-range of training and clinical experience, I am committed to establishing a therapeutic relationship that is dedicated toward understanding the circumstances that have brought you to this point in your life and in drawing upon your strengths and resources for taking your life in a new direction.
(215) 995-0098 View (215) 995-0098
Photo of Craig Cohen, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Craig Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cheltenham, PA 19012
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, a life transition, or problems in your relationships? Are you feeling sad, angry, or in need of help right now with complicated issues? I work to create a safe, enriching environment as we collaborate together to develop a clearer understanding of these concerns. We explore your goals in life and what gets in the way of experiencing a sense of fulfillment and purpose. I strive to listen and support the needs of my clients and explore with them meaningful changes they can make in their lives and in their personal and professional relationships.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, a life transition, or problems in your relationships? Are you feeling sad, angry, or in need of help right now with complicated issues? I work to create a safe, enriching environment as we collaborate together to develop a clearer understanding of these concerns. We explore your goals in life and what gets in the way of experiencing a sense of fulfillment and purpose. I strive to listen and support the needs of my clients and explore with them meaningful changes they can make in their lives and in their personal and professional relationships.
(215) 559-9558 View (215) 559-9558
Photo of Danna Bodenheimer, LCSW, DSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danna Bodenheimer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheltenham, PA 19012
I believe in the healing power of psychotherapy. I understand that the process might be a long one. If I take on a client, I am in it for the entire journey. Whether you facing questions about your relationship or your life path, psychotherapy can lead you towards authentic answers. I am able to use myself, along with the therapeutic relationship to allow you to find ways to live more fully. I am comfortable working to help you access the parts of yourself that feel both scary and powerful. I find that I am particularly skilled at working at the intersection of neurodivergence and queerness.
I believe in the healing power of psychotherapy. I understand that the process might be a long one. If I take on a client, I am in it for the entire journey. Whether you facing questions about your relationship or your life path, psychotherapy can lead you towards authentic answers. I am able to use myself, along with the therapeutic relationship to allow you to find ways to live more fully. I am comfortable working to help you access the parts of yourself that feel both scary and powerful. I find that I am particularly skilled at working at the intersection of neurodivergence and queerness.
(215) 839-1137 View (215) 839-1137
Photo of Gabriella Serruya-Green, PsyD, Psychologist
Gabriella Serruya-Green
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheltenham, PA 19012
For all the conveniences and genuine marvels of the modern world, rates of stress, disease and mental illness continue to escalate, particularly in the wake of the collective trauma of Covid-19. Children, teens, and young adults have been especially hard hit. I work with individuals of all ages in diminishing feelings of alienation, fear, and hyper-reactivity and cultivating a sense of inner ease and well-being. Using play, talk and family therapy, we work together to understand the unmet needs underlying symptoms and figure out ways to address these needs via channeling the natural human instincts for growth and discovery.
For all the conveniences and genuine marvels of the modern world, rates of stress, disease and mental illness continue to escalate, particularly in the wake of the collective trauma of Covid-19. Children, teens, and young adults have been especially hard hit. I work with individuals of all ages in diminishing feelings of alienation, fear, and hyper-reactivity and cultivating a sense of inner ease and well-being. Using play, talk and family therapy, we work together to understand the unmet needs underlying symptoms and figure out ways to address these needs via channeling the natural human instincts for growth and discovery.
(267) 613-7057 View (267) 613-7057
Photo of Hannah Lee, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheltenham, PA 19012
Waitlist for new clients
Imagine a space where you can express yourself in many different forms as you feel most comfortable; where you can try out new ways of being in your life and in your relationships. I strive to provide a space like this; where your thoughts, feelings and most tender parts can be revealed, nurtured, heard and seen. I enjoy the limitless diversity of brain chemistries, ethnicities, sexualities and gender expressions that exist among us. I also appreciate the diversity of life experience that each of us holds, and believe that there is wisdom and expertise within each of us to enable healing, but we don't always know how to access it.
Imagine a space where you can express yourself in many different forms as you feel most comfortable; where you can try out new ways of being in your life and in your relationships. I strive to provide a space like this; where your thoughts, feelings and most tender parts can be revealed, nurtured, heard and seen. I enjoy the limitless diversity of brain chemistries, ethnicities, sexualities and gender expressions that exist among us. I also appreciate the diversity of life experience that each of us holds, and believe that there is wisdom and expertise within each of us to enable healing, but we don't always know how to access it.
(267) 754-8020 View (267) 754-8020
Photo of Akiva S. Harris - Beyond Limits Mental Health & Wellness, LLC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beyond Limits Mental Health & Wellness, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cheltenham, PA 19012
Most people in your life would be surprised to know that you have internal struggles because you hide it well, but deep down inside you feel unfulfilled and unhappy. While some areas of your life are good, other areas never seem to improve no matter how hard you work on them. There seems to be this pattern of behavior that constantly gets in your way. It appears as if something is always holding you back, you feel stuck and unsure of how to move forward. You want to learn how to love and accept yourself and improve the quality of your relationships, starting with the relationship with yourself.
Most people in your life would be surprised to know that you have internal struggles because you hide it well, but deep down inside you feel unfulfilled and unhappy. While some areas of your life are good, other areas never seem to improve no matter how hard you work on them. There seems to be this pattern of behavior that constantly gets in your way. It appears as if something is always holding you back, you feel stuck and unsure of how to move forward. You want to learn how to love and accept yourself and improve the quality of your relationships, starting with the relationship with yourself.
(215) 297-4536 View (215) 297-4536
Photo of Dr. John Howe, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. John Howe
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cheltenham, PA 19012
Are you engaging in persistent, compulsive behavior that brings little satisfaction and damages how you relate to others at home, at work or in social settings? Disturbances of the inner self can interfere with joy, love, and satisfaction in living. Frustration, anger, sorrow and loss, disappointment become repetitious and even predictable. If so, it is time to do something to relieve these ineffective experiences in living. I am a licensed psychologist with 35 years experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, sexual and relationship issues, and the effects of personality disorders.
Are you engaging in persistent, compulsive behavior that brings little satisfaction and damages how you relate to others at home, at work or in social settings? Disturbances of the inner self can interfere with joy, love, and satisfaction in living. Frustration, anger, sorrow and loss, disappointment become repetitious and even predictable. If so, it is time to do something to relieve these ineffective experiences in living. I am a licensed psychologist with 35 years experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, sexual and relationship issues, and the effects of personality disorders.
(215) 565-0317 View (215) 565-0317
Photo of Frances G Martin, PhD, Psychologist
Frances G Martin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cheltenham, PA 19012
Not accepting new clients
I believe in the Talking Cure. Life can be fraught with disappointments, losses, stressors and challenges that feel overwhelming and discouraging. Finding words to describe thoughts, feelings, past and present experiences, in presence of a compassionate and non-judgmental other, affords profound and lasting relief from the emotional discomfort that interferes with the ability to live the life one desires. Undigested emotional pain from the past can interfere with ones ability to live a full and satisfying life in the present. Identifying those emotions whose roots are in the past, frees us to live more fully in the here and now.
I believe in the Talking Cure. Life can be fraught with disappointments, losses, stressors and challenges that feel overwhelming and discouraging. Finding words to describe thoughts, feelings, past and present experiences, in presence of a compassionate and non-judgmental other, affords profound and lasting relief from the emotional discomfort that interferes with the ability to live the life one desires. Undigested emotional pain from the past can interfere with ones ability to live a full and satisfying life in the present. Identifying those emotions whose roots are in the past, frees us to live more fully in the here and now.
(215) 874-5614 View (215) 874-5614

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Laurel J Buxbaum, PsyD, Psychologist
Laurel J Buxbaum
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Elkins Park, PA 19027  (Online Only)
By integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with insights from psychodynamic and solution-oriented approaches, I offer a range of effective strategies to foster your success and growth.
As a dedicated and experienced psychologist, I offer compassionate support for a range of challenges. I have particular expertise in addressing health-related concerns and stress, whether related to personal medical issues or those of a family member. More broadly, my practice focuses on anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, work-related stress, and family conflicts. While I find great fulfillment working with college-age and young adults, I am passionate about providing guidance and support to individuals of all ages. My goal is to help you navigate your struggles and achieve a healthier, more balanced life.
By integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with insights from psychodynamic and solution-oriented approaches, I offer a range of effective strategies to foster your success and growth.
As a dedicated and experienced psychologist, I offer compassionate support for a range of challenges. I have particular expertise in addressing health-related concerns and stress, whether related to personal medical issues or those of a family member. More broadly, my practice focuses on anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, work-related stress, and family conflicts. While I find great fulfillment working with college-age and young adults, I am passionate about providing guidance and support to individuals of all ages. My goal is to help you navigate your struggles and achieve a healthier, more balanced life.
(267) 458-2576 View (267) 458-2576
Photo of Teresa Edmunds, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teresa Edmunds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19141  (Online Only)
Hi, how are you? No really, how are you? If you are tired of saying, "I'm fine, I'm well, and/or I'm okay", when you really aren't then it may be time to seek assistance. My name is Teresa Edmunds and I'm a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) in the state of Pennsylvania, and I'm here to help. My therapeutic approach is integrated with short term behavioral approaches like CBT & psychodynamic approaches as needed. I utilize a realistic, straight-forward, & strength-based approach to work with you without making you feel judged.
Hi, how are you? No really, how are you? If you are tired of saying, "I'm fine, I'm well, and/or I'm okay", when you really aren't then it may be time to seek assistance. My name is Teresa Edmunds and I'm a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) in the state of Pennsylvania, and I'm here to help. My therapeutic approach is integrated with short term behavioral approaches like CBT & psychodynamic approaches as needed. I utilize a realistic, straight-forward, & strength-based approach to work with you without making you feel judged.
(888) 895-1033 x1 View (888) 895-1033 x1
Joanne Kaminski
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046
I am a PA licensed psychologist with a broad-based practice consisting of treatment for several mental health disorders, substance abuse/dependence, palliative care for clients with chronic medical disorders, bereavement, family and marital therapy, academic stressors, professional impairment, transferring from military to civilian life, as well as psychophysiological retraining through biofeedback. Cultural and religious beliefs are considered in all treatment approaches. Treatment approaches consist of cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic and mind-body approaches.
I am a PA licensed psychologist with a broad-based practice consisting of treatment for several mental health disorders, substance abuse/dependence, palliative care for clients with chronic medical disorders, bereavement, family and marital therapy, academic stressors, professional impairment, transferring from military to civilian life, as well as psychophysiological retraining through biofeedback. Cultural and religious beliefs are considered in all treatment approaches. Treatment approaches consist of cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic and mind-body approaches.
(484) 436-2080 View (484) 436-2080
Photo of Persida Ghibilic, MA, LPC, LBS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Persida Ghibilic
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LBS
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19111
Originally oriented in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, my therapeutic approach is now eclectic including psychodynamic and existential applications, as well.
As a Mental Health professional I was always sensitive to individuals' needs and oriented to help them overcome difficulties in their lives. I understand asking for help is a difficult step. Building and maintaining a positive therapeutic relationship based on trust and confidence is essential in interaction with my clients.
Originally oriented in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, my therapeutic approach is now eclectic including psychodynamic and existential applications, as well.
As a Mental Health professional I was always sensitive to individuals' needs and oriented to help them overcome difficulties in their lives. I understand asking for help is a difficult step. Building and maintaining a positive therapeutic relationship based on trust and confidence is essential in interaction with my clients.
(267) 723-7500 View (267) 723-7500
Photo of Johanna Bos, LCSW , CASAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Johanna Bos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elkins Park, PA 19027  (Online Only)
For the past twenty five years I have been working with clients from various backgrounds and presenting issues as a licensed therapist in both private and agency settings. I am a native New Yorker, and find my background as a non-judgmental, open minded, and compassionate person has aided in the treatment I offer. I believe in collaborative, client led therapy, largely utilizing a psychodynamic approach. I have extensive experience working with the LGBTQ2+ community, treating sexual issues, familial/partner conflicts, depression, substance misuse, and trauma.
For the past twenty five years I have been working with clients from various backgrounds and presenting issues as a licensed therapist in both private and agency settings. I am a native New Yorker, and find my background as a non-judgmental, open minded, and compassionate person has aided in the treatment I offer. I believe in collaborative, client led therapy, largely utilizing a psychodynamic approach. I have extensive experience working with the LGBTQ2+ community, treating sexual issues, familial/partner conflicts, depression, substance misuse, and trauma.
(917) 822-1468 View (917) 822-1468
Photo of Lauri A Haines, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauri A Haines
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jenkintown, PA 19046  (Online Only)
I draw from relational, psychodynamic and trauma-informed approaches and am guided by an understanding that early pivotal relationships and experiences shape our narrative about ourselves.
At times our life-circumstances can create such overwhelm, isolation, confusion and pain that we struggle to make sense of or to overcome them on our own. Having the support and understanding of a warm, collaborative therapist can help you face and work through difficult issues as you move into resilience, balance and a strengthened identity. As a psychotherapist in practice for over ten years, I am guided by the belief that, at our core, we each want to be known, understood and respected by others. I strive to help clients build new insights and perspectives about their lives and to restore their connections to their true selves.
I draw from relational, psychodynamic and trauma-informed approaches and am guided by an understanding that early pivotal relationships and experiences shape our narrative about ourselves.
At times our life-circumstances can create such overwhelm, isolation, confusion and pain that we struggle to make sense of or to overcome them on our own. Having the support and understanding of a warm, collaborative therapist can help you face and work through difficult issues as you move into resilience, balance and a strengthened identity. As a psychotherapist in practice for over ten years, I am guided by the belief that, at our core, we each want to be known, understood and respected by others. I strive to help clients build new insights and perspectives about their lives and to restore their connections to their true selves.
(267) 651-0344 View (267) 651-0344
Photo of Bridgett Bollin - Psychoanalytic Center of Philadelphia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Psychoanalytic Center of Philadelphia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jenkintown, PA 19046
If you are feeling ready for a change, or have felt unsatisfied with previous therapy that was only a "bandaid" for your problems, psychodynamic therapy can help.
Have you tried brief symptom focused therapy, only to have your problems return? Are you feeling stuck with longstanding patterns in your life? Psychodynamic therapy may be the change you are looking for. Since 1939, the Psychoanalytic Center of Philadelphia has promoted psychoanalytic training and practice. Through our Consultation & Referral Service, our members offer high quality therapy and psychoanalysis to the community. Through PCOP, you can be confident that your therapist has the training to provide you the kind of insightful therapeutic experience you're looking for.
If you are feeling ready for a change, or have felt unsatisfied with previous therapy that was only a "bandaid" for your problems, psychodynamic therapy can help.
Have you tried brief symptom focused therapy, only to have your problems return? Are you feeling stuck with longstanding patterns in your life? Psychodynamic therapy may be the change you are looking for. Since 1939, the Psychoanalytic Center of Philadelphia has promoted psychoanalytic training and practice. Through our Consultation & Referral Service, our members offer high quality therapy and psychoanalysis to the community. Through PCOP, you can be confident that your therapist has the training to provide you the kind of insightful therapeutic experience you're looking for.
(267) 619-7281 View (267) 619-7281
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.