Psychodynamic Therapists in Meadville, PA

Photo of Ashley Berry Harward - Integrative Therapies Meadville LLC, LCSW, CCTP-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Integrative Therapies Meadville LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Meadville, PA 16335
I hold a Master's Degree in Clinical Social Work and have 2 years of postgraduate Psychodynamic training.
I have a great admiration and respect for my clients who've chosen to do the difficult task of examining themselves and taking risks to improve their lives. I work with adolescent and adult individuals and couples in a sincere and supportive capacity to address issues of grief, trauma, career difficulties, infertility and parenting, sexuality, life choices, relationships, depression, anxiety, and more. I invite your inquiries and can be reached by phone or email.
I hold a Master's Degree in Clinical Social Work and have 2 years of postgraduate Psychodynamic training.
I have a great admiration and respect for my clients who've chosen to do the difficult task of examining themselves and taking risks to improve their lives. I work with adolescent and adult individuals and couples in a sincere and supportive capacity to address issues of grief, trauma, career difficulties, infertility and parenting, sexuality, life choices, relationships, depression, anxiety, and more. I invite your inquiries and can be reached by phone or email.
(814) 806-2209 View (814) 806-2209
Photo of Ryan Brooks Leslie, LPC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ryan Brooks Leslie
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Meadville, PA 16335  (Online Only)
Hello! Welcome to my site, my name is Ryan Brooks Leslie, licensed professional counselor and registered art therapist. I'm glad you found me here. There are few situations in life which are comparable to being in therapy; A helping relationship based on mutual respect, honesty, humility, educated/objective guidance, and genuine connection, in order for you to better navigate this thing we call "life". Being able to say anything, without fear of judgment, reproach, or rejection can allow you to truly face the obstacles that separate you from happiness and freedom; to be the best and most fulfilled version of yourself.
Hello! Welcome to my site, my name is Ryan Brooks Leslie, licensed professional counselor and registered art therapist. I'm glad you found me here. There are few situations in life which are comparable to being in therapy; A helping relationship based on mutual respect, honesty, humility, educated/objective guidance, and genuine connection, in order for you to better navigate this thing we call "life". Being able to say anything, without fear of judgment, reproach, or rejection can allow you to truly face the obstacles that separate you from happiness and freedom; to be the best and most fulfilled version of yourself.
(484) 559-7458 View (484) 559-7458
Photo of Cindy K Kightlinger - Counseling Meadville - Mercy House, MA, CADC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Counseling Meadville - Mercy House
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CADC, LPC
Verified Verified
Meadville, PA 16335
How can Mercy House help you in 2024? You might have trauma-our therapists are EMDR trained and can assist you in decreasing your inner pain. Maybe you have anxiety and depression, let us provide resources to help you achieve a more stable mood. Maybe stress is high-you could add clinical aroma therapy, healing touch, medical qigong, herbs that support mental health, or yoga therapy to your health regimen. Sleep and nutrition may exacerbate your mental health. Integrative Nutrition therapy for mental health can offer supportive benefits. Licensed Drug/alcohol intensive outpatient services are also offered on site.
How can Mercy House help you in 2024? You might have trauma-our therapists are EMDR trained and can assist you in decreasing your inner pain. Maybe you have anxiety and depression, let us provide resources to help you achieve a more stable mood. Maybe stress is high-you could add clinical aroma therapy, healing touch, medical qigong, herbs that support mental health, or yoga therapy to your health regimen. Sleep and nutrition may exacerbate your mental health. Integrative Nutrition therapy for mental health can offer supportive benefits. Licensed Drug/alcohol intensive outpatient services are also offered on site.
(814) 389-4084 View (814) 389-4084
Photo of Peter J Haddad, PhD, Psychologist
Peter J Haddad
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Meadville, PA 16335
We have all seen portrayals of the stereotypical therapist dispassionately responding to a desperate plea by the client for guidance, opinion or feedback with the question: "How do YOU feel about that?" If you find this approach to therapy irritating, I'm right there with you. During my many years as a therapist, I have found that I usually do not know "the answer", but I almost always have a carefully considered and well explained point of view intended to help you generate thoughtful reflection about yourself, wise decision making, and a useful strategy for coping and/or problem solving.
We have all seen portrayals of the stereotypical therapist dispassionately responding to a desperate plea by the client for guidance, opinion or feedback with the question: "How do YOU feel about that?" If you find this approach to therapy irritating, I'm right there with you. During my many years as a therapist, I have found that I usually do not know "the answer", but I almost always have a carefully considered and well explained point of view intended to help you generate thoughtful reflection about yourself, wise decision making, and a useful strategy for coping and/or problem solving.
(814) 797-7080 View (814) 797-7080
Photo of Heather S Duke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather S Duke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Meadville, PA 16335
Congratulations on taking the first step towards self-care. I have great respect for those looking to better their lives and I am here to hold space for people to grow and learn more about themselves. My approach is client-centered and strength-based, working primarily with adults in many areas of concerns. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, addiction, marital issues, grief, or just overwhelmed with life, I am here to help.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards self-care. I have great respect for those looking to better their lives and I am here to hold space for people to grow and learn more about themselves. My approach is client-centered and strength-based, working primarily with adults in many areas of concerns. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, addiction, marital issues, grief, or just overwhelmed with life, I am here to help.
(814) 247-0226 View (814) 247-0226
Photo of Richard Hoffman - Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Meadville, PA 16335
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
(814) 212-5410 View (814) 212-5410
Photo of Richard Hoffman - Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Meadville, PA 16335
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website www.ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website www.ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
(814) 501-4909 View (814) 501-4909

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Richard Hoffman - Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conneaut Lake, PA 16316
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website at www.ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website at www.ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
(724) 602-2294 View (724) 602-2294

Online Therapists

Photo of Tara Morse, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara Morse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217  (Online Only)
I utilize a thoughtful, individualized and eclectic approach with clients, drawing on elements of psychodynamic, interpersonal and cognitive behavioral theories.
I truly believe that people have the capacity to change, grow, and achieve their full potential within the context of a supportive environment. This belief fuels my work as a therapist. I completed my undergraduate work at the University of Pittsburgh and received my Masters in Social Work from New York University. I have experience working with an array of identified problem areas including, but not limited to, anxiety, mood disorders, substance abuse, eating/body image, postpartum depression, self esteem and life/developmental transitions.
I utilize a thoughtful, individualized and eclectic approach with clients, drawing on elements of psychodynamic, interpersonal and cognitive behavioral theories.
I truly believe that people have the capacity to change, grow, and achieve their full potential within the context of a supportive environment. This belief fuels my work as a therapist. I completed my undergraduate work at the University of Pittsburgh and received my Masters in Social Work from New York University. I have experience working with an array of identified problem areas including, but not limited to, anxiety, mood disorders, substance abuse, eating/body image, postpartum depression, self esteem and life/developmental transitions.
(412) 515-3931 View (412) 515-3931
Photo of Denise Garver, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Denise Garver
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Butler, PA 16001
Her area of specialization is Psychodynamic Psychotherapy.
“Out of your vulnerabilities will come your strength.” Individuals suffering from a wide range of mental health issues, including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and personality dysfunction can benefit from participation in psychotherapy. Persons wishing to decrease symptoms, acknowledge emotions, identify patterns, improve interpersonal relationships, and recognize and address avoidance can achieve these goals. Ms. Garver utilizes a trauma-informed approach and seeks to assist people with overcoming the challenges they face on a daily basis. Individuals who desire to overcome obstacles associated
Her area of specialization is Psychodynamic Psychotherapy.
“Out of your vulnerabilities will come your strength.” Individuals suffering from a wide range of mental health issues, including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and personality dysfunction can benefit from participation in psychotherapy. Persons wishing to decrease symptoms, acknowledge emotions, identify patterns, improve interpersonal relationships, and recognize and address avoidance can achieve these goals. Ms. Garver utilizes a trauma-informed approach and seeks to assist people with overcoming the challenges they face on a daily basis. Individuals who desire to overcome obstacles associated
(724) 801-3348 View (724) 801-3348
Photo of Jenny Lee, M Ed, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenny Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, M Ed, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
I believe everyone deserves to live a life of authenticity, joy, and personal fulfillment. I am LGBTQ+-affirming, sex-positive, and strengths-focused. My therapeutic style is eclectic, and heavily influenced by attachment theory and contemporary psychodynamic theories, including narrative therapy and parts work. Together, we will explore how your identity, your relationships, the stories you tell yourself, and the stories you have been told about yourself interact with social and historical context to create the life you are living.
I believe everyone deserves to live a life of authenticity, joy, and personal fulfillment. I am LGBTQ+-affirming, sex-positive, and strengths-focused. My therapeutic style is eclectic, and heavily influenced by attachment theory and contemporary psychodynamic theories, including narrative therapy and parts work. Together, we will explore how your identity, your relationships, the stories you tell yourself, and the stories you have been told about yourself interact with social and historical context to create the life you are living.
(412) 838-3919 View (412) 838-3919
Photo of Thomas Lindquist, PsyD, Psychologist
Thomas Lindquist
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carnegie, PA 15106
I combine short-term, skill-based interventions with longer-term psychodynamic or insight-oriented approaches so that you can start making progress towards your goals during our first session.
We all want to experience happiness and satisfaction in our lives. I believe that most people have a theory about themselves and their problems, but have struggled to make or sustain progress on their own. That is where having a therapist can be tremendously helpful and where I can provide support and expertise to help you reach your goals. I have been successful in helping people develop healthy coping strategies, and I coach people to try out new behaviors in their daily lives. I have a calm, yet attentive therapeutic style and I strive to empower my clients to experience greater confidence and agency.
I combine short-term, skill-based interventions with longer-term psychodynamic or insight-oriented approaches so that you can start making progress towards your goals during our first session.
We all want to experience happiness and satisfaction in our lives. I believe that most people have a theory about themselves and their problems, but have struggled to make or sustain progress on their own. That is where having a therapist can be tremendously helpful and where I can provide support and expertise to help you reach your goals. I have been successful in helping people develop healthy coping strategies, and I coach people to try out new behaviors in their daily lives. I have a calm, yet attentive therapeutic style and I strive to empower my clients to experience greater confidence and agency.
(412) 732-6106 View (412) 732-6106
Photo of James Bowen, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James Bowen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
I see therapy as a way of deepening relationship to purpose, land, bodies, and each other. I help people build capacity so they can show up in more meaningful ways in their relationships and the world.  I draw upon body-based (somatic) and insight-based ( psychodynamic) therapies to help open up places where people are stuck, uncover what is held in the body and psyche, explore troubled aspects of the self, and create new possibilities.
I see therapy as a way of deepening relationship to purpose, land, bodies, and each other. I help people build capacity so they can show up in more meaningful ways in their relationships and the world.  I draw upon body-based (somatic) and insight-based ( psychodynamic) therapies to help open up places where people are stuck, uncover what is held in the body and psyche, explore troubled aspects of the self, and create new possibilities.
(412) 501-2467 View (412) 501-2467
Photo of Audrey Miller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audrey Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
In our therapeutic journey together, utilizing a blend of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and a psychodynamic approach, we will establish a safe and non-judgmental space.
Are you someone that has a history of struggling to make relationships work, whether it be with friends, family, or intimate partners? Do low mood, racing thoughts, and lack of energy often affect your functioning in day-to-day life? Do you struggle with feelings of worthlessness or not being "enough"? As a therapist, I specialize in supporting adults of all ages who grapple with interpersonal issues, mood concerns, and self-esteem. Together, we'll address these challenges and work towards building fulfilling relationships and improving your overall well-being.
In our therapeutic journey together, utilizing a blend of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and a psychodynamic approach, we will establish a safe and non-judgmental space.
Are you someone that has a history of struggling to make relationships work, whether it be with friends, family, or intimate partners? Do low mood, racing thoughts, and lack of energy often affect your functioning in day-to-day life? Do you struggle with feelings of worthlessness or not being "enough"? As a therapist, I specialize in supporting adults of all ages who grapple with interpersonal issues, mood concerns, and self-esteem. Together, we'll address these challenges and work towards building fulfilling relationships and improving your overall well-being.
(412) 991-2270 View (412) 991-2270
Photo of Robert Bartek, PhD, Psychologist
Robert Bartek
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mars, PA 16046
Family means everything and when one member suffers the whole family suffers. Our marriages matter, our children matter, our families matter and so do you. I have been in the field of psychology since 1983. I specialize in marital, child, and adolescent therapies and issues related to depression, anxiety, bipolar and personality disorders. Behavioral, relationship and personality variables all contribute to wellness. I offer behavioral, cognitive and psychodynamic modalities to address these issues. Please call, no e-mails. Thank you.
Family means everything and when one member suffers the whole family suffers. Our marriages matter, our children matter, our families matter and so do you. I have been in the field of psychology since 1983. I specialize in marital, child, and adolescent therapies and issues related to depression, anxiety, bipolar and personality disorders. Behavioral, relationship and personality variables all contribute to wellness. I offer behavioral, cognitive and psychodynamic modalities to address these issues. Please call, no e-mails. Thank you.
(724) 245-3620 View (724) 245-3620
Photo of Jessica Cook, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jessica Cook
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15224  (Online Only)
Techniques I often use include Relational Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Family Systems Therapy.
Hi, I'm Jessica, a therapist specializing in couples and families. My mission is to support you in creating healthier relationships and overcoming life's challenges in a safe and compassionate environment. Have you experienced a recent betrayal or rupture in trust? Healing begins when we decide to start talking about it.
Techniques I often use include Relational Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Family Systems Therapy.
Hi, I'm Jessica, a therapist specializing in couples and families. My mission is to support you in creating healthier relationships and overcoming life's challenges in a safe and compassionate environment. Have you experienced a recent betrayal or rupture in trust? Healing begins when we decide to start talking about it.
(484) 291-3165 View (484) 291-3165
Photo of Megan Dami, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Dami
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
McMurray, PA 15317
Utilizing a combination of client-centered techniques, strength-based techniques, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, psychodynamic techniques, and creative arts/techniques within therapy, I try to meet you where you are at and help you to get to where you want to be with your goals.
Megan is a Licensed Professional Counselor who earned her Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Waynesburg University in 2018 and has been in the field with a variety of populations, for almost a decade overall. She has spent time working in community agencies, inpatient, and outpatient settings over the past several years. Megan has specialized over time in helping individuals with anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-esteem issues, and self-destructive behaviors, to name a few.
Utilizing a combination of client-centered techniques, strength-based techniques, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, psychodynamic techniques, and creative arts/techniques within therapy, I try to meet you where you are at and help you to get to where you want to be with your goals.
Megan is a Licensed Professional Counselor who earned her Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Waynesburg University in 2018 and has been in the field with a variety of populations, for almost a decade overall. She has spent time working in community agencies, inpatient, and outpatient settings over the past several years. Megan has specialized over time in helping individuals with anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-esteem issues, and self-destructive behaviors, to name a few.
(412) 538-6018 View (412) 538-6018
Photo of Carole Joan Honeychurch, MA, LPC, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carole Joan Honeychurch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15208
I work with a variety of modalities, including psychodynamic, person-centered therapy and more symptom-focused modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
People seek therapy when they are in pain. This pain may show up as anxiety, depression, loneliness, compulsive behaviors, addiction or a combination of these. My job as your therapist is to meet you where you are and to understand your experience, your pain, and to help you move forward. The goal is to create a collaboration in which you have the support and safety to begin to challenge thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors that may be holding you back and causing suffering. I will guide you in this work with warmth, humor, respect, and acceptance.
I work with a variety of modalities, including psychodynamic, person-centered therapy and more symptom-focused modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
People seek therapy when they are in pain. This pain may show up as anxiety, depression, loneliness, compulsive behaviors, addiction or a combination of these. My job as your therapist is to meet you where you are and to understand your experience, your pain, and to help you move forward. The goal is to create a collaboration in which you have the support and safety to begin to challenge thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors that may be holding you back and causing suffering. I will guide you in this work with warmth, humor, respect, and acceptance.
(412) 275-4853 View (412) 275-4853
Photo of Brittney Dezwick, LPC, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittney Dezwick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
My approach is eclectic, drawing from various evidence-based treatment modalities including, EMDR, DBT, psychodynamic, and CBT.
As a Licensed Therapist I believe there is great value in a curious and non-judgmental exploration of our feelings, thoughts, actions, and relational patterns in the presence of another person. I value the collaborative therapeutic relationship, using authenticity and humor within the therapy process. Together we will explore habits, beliefs, physical manifestations, limitations and the underlying issues that keep you stuck in patterns that restrict your capacity to enjoy the quality of life you desire. I welcome all genders, sexual orientations, races, nationalities, and have a strong commitment to trauma-informed care.
My approach is eclectic, drawing from various evidence-based treatment modalities including, EMDR, DBT, psychodynamic, and CBT.
As a Licensed Therapist I believe there is great value in a curious and non-judgmental exploration of our feelings, thoughts, actions, and relational patterns in the presence of another person. I value the collaborative therapeutic relationship, using authenticity and humor within the therapy process. Together we will explore habits, beliefs, physical manifestations, limitations and the underlying issues that keep you stuck in patterns that restrict your capacity to enjoy the quality of life you desire. I welcome all genders, sexual orientations, races, nationalities, and have a strong commitment to trauma-informed care.
(412) 314-8181 View (412) 314-8181
Photo of Andrew Oostdyk, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrew Oostdyk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
I practice through a psychodynamic framework with applied MI, CBT, and DBT intervention techniques.
My ideal client is one with motivation for self-care, openness to change, and a desire to learn more about themselves and others. My ideal population consists of adults with a mental health diagnosis of anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use disorder, and other increasingly complex diagnoses. However, I am also devoted to assisting those seeking help without a defined diagnosis and who are beginning therapy without a clear vision of treatment needs. I welcome working with anyone who may benefit from my skillset who is dealing with life’s many challenges and searching for a clearer definition and understanding of their stressors.
I practice through a psychodynamic framework with applied MI, CBT, and DBT intervention techniques.
My ideal client is one with motivation for self-care, openness to change, and a desire to learn more about themselves and others. My ideal population consists of adults with a mental health diagnosis of anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use disorder, and other increasingly complex diagnoses. However, I am also devoted to assisting those seeking help without a defined diagnosis and who are beginning therapy without a clear vision of treatment needs. I welcome working with anyone who may benefit from my skillset who is dealing with life’s many challenges and searching for a clearer definition and understanding of their stressors.
(412) 844-5749 View (412) 844-5749
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.