Psychoanalytic Therapists in California

Photo of Dr. Kyle Kermott, MA , PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Kyle Kermott
Psychologist, MA , PsyD
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94062  (Online Only)
My advanced psychoanalytic training allows me to work on a deep and profound level, to produce real change with you.
Are you feeling down? Not getting as much enjoyment from life as you want? Do you feel tired and worn out all the time? You know things aren't right, but don't know how to fix them. I help people make sense of confusing emotions. Imagine what it would feel like to put these difficult emotions behind you and to be living a life filled with purpose and meaning. I've created a revolutionary depth-oriented therapy program called "The BETR" method, which helps people find long-term relief from challenging emotions. I care deeply about the people I work with, and I look forward to helping you begin living the life you want and deserve.
My advanced psychoanalytic training allows me to work on a deep and profound level, to produce real change with you.
Are you feeling down? Not getting as much enjoyment from life as you want? Do you feel tired and worn out all the time? You know things aren't right, but don't know how to fix them. I help people make sense of confusing emotions. Imagine what it would feel like to put these difficult emotions behind you and to be living a life filled with purpose and meaning. I've created a revolutionary depth-oriented therapy program called "The BETR" method, which helps people find long-term relief from challenging emotions. I care deeply about the people I work with, and I look forward to helping you begin living the life you want and deserve.
(650) 594-6169 View (650) 594-6169
Photo of Susan Hamlin, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Hamlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Campbell, CA 95008  (Online Only)
I am on the clinical faculty of The San Francisco Center for Psychoanalysis and teach through the Palo Alto Psychoanalytic Training program.
A seasoned psychotherapist with tremendous respect for the complicated difficulty people face when deciding to contact a psychotherapist. Coming to the point of seeking help, is a critical moment that has often been building for a over period and the person making the phone call has already tried in many ways to solve a problem that has become overwhelming. My approach in treatment is accessible, direct and thoughtful. Trained as a psychoanalyst and an addictions specialist, I treat individuals and couples. Areas of particular interest and expertise are issues are issues related to addiction and adult transitions.
I am on the clinical faculty of The San Francisco Center for Psychoanalysis and teach through the Palo Alto Psychoanalytic Training program.
A seasoned psychotherapist with tremendous respect for the complicated difficulty people face when deciding to contact a psychotherapist. Coming to the point of seeking help, is a critical moment that has often been building for a over period and the person making the phone call has already tried in many ways to solve a problem that has become overwhelming. My approach in treatment is accessible, direct and thoughtful. Trained as a psychoanalyst and an addictions specialist, I treat individuals and couples. Areas of particular interest and expertise are issues are issues related to addiction and adult transitions.
(408) 759-5423 x650281 View (408) 759-5423 x650281
Photo of Eran Solomon, MA, LMFT, RDT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eran Solomon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RDT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I have extensive training in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, Drama Therapy and Group Psychotherapy.
Thank you for viewing my profile. If you feel anxious, sad or perhaps you struggle with one or more of your relationships, you are not alone. Together, we will work on gaining a better understanding of yourself, what motivates you to do the things you do, and explore the dynamics of your interpersonal relationships. In a direct, warm and gentle approach, I will help you explore your internal obstacles and together, we will work through them. Please feel free to reach out with any questions that you may have and/or to set up an initial consultation.
I have extensive training in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, Drama Therapy and Group Psychotherapy.
Thank you for viewing my profile. If you feel anxious, sad or perhaps you struggle with one or more of your relationships, you are not alone. Together, we will work on gaining a better understanding of yourself, what motivates you to do the things you do, and explore the dynamics of your interpersonal relationships. In a direct, warm and gentle approach, I will help you explore your internal obstacles and together, we will work through them. Please feel free to reach out with any questions that you may have and/or to set up an initial consultation.
(323) 736-5038 View (323) 736-5038
Photo of Joseph T Jones, PsyD, LEP, Psychologist
Joseph T Jones
Psychologist, PsyD, LEP
Verified Verified
San Marcos, CA 92078  (Online Only)
I serve individuals, families, children and adolescents of all ages in North San Diego County and beyond. Treatment modalities are in cognitive behavioral therapy, psychoanalytic, rational emotive therapy, transactional analysis, psychoeducational, client centered, grief, gestalt, and existential psychotherapy. With a specialization in psychological testing and therapy for all ages, I am dedicated to addressing a wide range of psychological needs both in person and Online.
I serve individuals, families, children and adolescents of all ages in North San Diego County and beyond. Treatment modalities are in cognitive behavioral therapy, psychoanalytic, rational emotive therapy, transactional analysis, psychoeducational, client centered, grief, gestalt, and existential psychotherapy. With a specialization in psychological testing and therapy for all ages, I am dedicated to addressing a wide range of psychological needs both in person and Online.
(442) 249-8579 View (442) 249-8579
Photo of Andres Cohen, ACSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Andres Cohen
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066
Using a psychodynamic and psychoanalytic approach, I work with the mind's elusive parts to help you connect with your most authentic self.
Life can feel overwhelming, confusing, and, at times, impossible. You may know your problems but can’t seem to overcome them. Whether existential issues or life’s minutiae weigh you down, trauma has left you feeling cut off from yourself and others, or your creativity feels stunted by your past, I understand how isolating these challenges can be. You don't have to navigate them alone. I work especially well with academics, students, writers, and artists but help people from all walks of life.
Using a psychodynamic and psychoanalytic approach, I work with the mind's elusive parts to help you connect with your most authentic self.
Life can feel overwhelming, confusing, and, at times, impossible. You may know your problems but can’t seem to overcome them. Whether existential issues or life’s minutiae weigh you down, trauma has left you feeling cut off from yourself and others, or your creativity feels stunted by your past, I understand how isolating these challenges can be. You don't have to navigate them alone. I work especially well with academics, students, writers, and artists but help people from all walks of life.
(424) 380-6870 View (424) 380-6870
Photo of Matthew D Silverstein, PhD, Psychologist
Matthew D Silverstein
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hollywood, CA 90046  (Online Only)
A psychoanalytic view suggests that current problems may be sourced in unconscious patterns, often rooted in the past, that would benefit from attention and understanding.
If you are moving through a difficult transition or wanting to tend to the deeper psychological aspects of past traumatic situations or persistent addictions, my work can help you. My training is based in a psychoanalytic perspective coupled with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and a genuine appreciation for sexual, cultural, and spiritual diversity.
A psychoanalytic view suggests that current problems may be sourced in unconscious patterns, often rooted in the past, that would benefit from attention and understanding.
If you are moving through a difficult transition or wanting to tend to the deeper psychological aspects of past traumatic situations or persistent addictions, my work can help you. My training is based in a psychoanalytic perspective coupled with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and a genuine appreciation for sexual, cultural, and spiritual diversity.
(424) 294-8591 View (424) 294-8591
Photo of Derek Baldridge, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Derek Baldridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach blends psychodynamic and psychoanalytic techniques with cognitive-behavioral interventions to foster a unique, effective therapeutic experience tailored to each individual.
With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I have a deep respect and understanding of the positive impact of the therapeutic process. I have dedicated my career to helping others, and I get a profound sense of purpose working with clients to help them navigate the complexities of life, better understand their issues, and meet their potential. My initial work with foster youth and other underserved populations not only fueled my passion to be a therapist, but gave me first-hand insight into the strength and resilience of the human spirit, and the immense change and growth we are capable of with the right support.
My therapeutic approach blends psychodynamic and psychoanalytic techniques with cognitive-behavioral interventions to foster a unique, effective therapeutic experience tailored to each individual.
With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I have a deep respect and understanding of the positive impact of the therapeutic process. I have dedicated my career to helping others, and I get a profound sense of purpose working with clients to help them navigate the complexities of life, better understand their issues, and meet their potential. My initial work with foster youth and other underserved populations not only fueled my passion to be a therapist, but gave me first-hand insight into the strength and resilience of the human spirit, and the immense change and growth we are capable of with the right support.
(424) 484-8868 View (424) 484-8868
Photo of Ari Max Bachrach, MS, NP, PMHNP
Ari Max Bachrach
MS, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
I am trained to alleviate individuals' psychiatric symptoms with treatments including psychoanalytic psychotherapy and psychopharmacology.
My love of psychotherapy is rooted in deep belief of the transformative potential of individuals to heal, grow, and realize their most healthy and happy selves, and in turn to have greater capacity and freedom to change our communities and society. As a nurse practitioner I aim to work with you towards that goal. In much the same way that we are shaped by our early relationships, environment, and experiences, healing too happens in relationship. In an attuned therapeutic relationship, we are able to have different experiences and develop a greater sense of authenticity and connection to ourselves and the world around us.
I am trained to alleviate individuals' psychiatric symptoms with treatments including psychoanalytic psychotherapy and psychopharmacology.
My love of psychotherapy is rooted in deep belief of the transformative potential of individuals to heal, grow, and realize their most healthy and happy selves, and in turn to have greater capacity and freedom to change our communities and society. As a nurse practitioner I aim to work with you towards that goal. In much the same way that we are shaped by our early relationships, environment, and experiences, healing too happens in relationship. In an attuned therapeutic relationship, we are able to have different experiences and develop a greater sense of authenticity and connection to ourselves and the world around us.
(925) 940-1809 View (925) 940-1809
Photo of Alissa DiFranco, MFT, CFRC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alissa DiFranco
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CFRC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94131  (Online Only)
I draw upon a broad theoretical background that includes EMDR, psychoanalytic theory, attachment theory, and cognitive-behavioral therapy, as well as over 30 years of experience in the practices of yoga and art.
My style of working is thoughtful and direct. I am committed to helping people discover and enhance their emotional capacity in order to create more satisfying lives. Through the transformative experience of being deeply understood by another in an authentic, safe and honest relationship, people can transform destructive patterns into more satisfying expressions of self.
I draw upon a broad theoretical background that includes EMDR, psychoanalytic theory, attachment theory, and cognitive-behavioral therapy, as well as over 30 years of experience in the practices of yoga and art.
My style of working is thoughtful and direct. I am committed to helping people discover and enhance their emotional capacity in order to create more satisfying lives. Through the transformative experience of being deeply understood by another in an authentic, safe and honest relationship, people can transform destructive patterns into more satisfying expressions of self.
(415) 237-4360 View (415) 237-4360
Photo of Rachel Cooke, PsyD, Psychologist
Rachel Cooke
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I specialize in doing depth work with couples, and I teach psychoanalytic couple therapy online and for PCPG (see below).
Starting therapy is not easy, and I hope you'll soon feel comfortable with me because of how I listen and become interested in the details you bring, helping you start to feel safe and at ease. I'll listen to the layers of what you say, and do my best to notice patterns which you may be unaware of. Together we'll think about the present moment of your life, your history, your needs and desires, and what gets in the way of your greater happiness and satisfaction.
I specialize in doing depth work with couples, and I teach psychoanalytic couple therapy online and for PCPG (see below).
Starting therapy is not easy, and I hope you'll soon feel comfortable with me because of how I listen and become interested in the details you bring, helping you start to feel safe and at ease. I'll listen to the layers of what you say, and do my best to notice patterns which you may be unaware of. Together we'll think about the present moment of your life, your history, your needs and desires, and what gets in the way of your greater happiness and satisfaction.
(510) 374-4394 View (510) 374-4394
Photo of Dean Leav - Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(831) 208-3271 View (831) 208-3271
Photo of Erica Sanborn, PhD, Psychologist
Erica Sanborn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, dissatisfied, disengaged from your life and your relationships, or just feel like something is getting in the way of living the life you really want, therapy can help you understand why and learn skills to improve the situations causing you distress now. I use a psychoanalytic and collaborative relational approach to engage your curiosity about how early experiences, unconscious motivations, thoughts, or fears may contribute to your life today. Together, we will work to foster compassion for your struggles and motivation to create the life you desire.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, dissatisfied, disengaged from your life and your relationships, or just feel like something is getting in the way of living the life you really want, therapy can help you understand why and learn skills to improve the situations causing you distress now. I use a psychoanalytic and collaborative relational approach to engage your curiosity about how early experiences, unconscious motivations, thoughts, or fears may contribute to your life today. Together, we will work to foster compassion for your struggles and motivation to create the life you desire.
(424) 317-8124 View (424) 317-8124
Photo of Darren M Del Castillo, PhD, Psychologist
Darren M Del Castillo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Waitlist for new clients
I have 15 years experience as a Psychologist and training in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy.
I believe seeking therapy is a sign of strength. Our deepest self wants to be known and find a way through life's challenges. Our deepest self wants to connect and create and build a sense of well-being. Whether you are feeling "off" internally (anxious or depressed), or need to discuss relationship problems, I provide a warm and thoughtful presence. I believe the best way to grow is to feel supported to engage with relational patterns, troubling and repetitive thoughts, and unfinished business from the past that is getting in the way of building your future. I will engage with you to help you move forward in your life.
I have 15 years experience as a Psychologist and training in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy.
I believe seeking therapy is a sign of strength. Our deepest self wants to be known and find a way through life's challenges. Our deepest self wants to connect and create and build a sense of well-being. Whether you are feeling "off" internally (anxious or depressed), or need to discuss relationship problems, I provide a warm and thoughtful presence. I believe the best way to grow is to feel supported to engage with relational patterns, troubling and repetitive thoughts, and unfinished business from the past that is getting in the way of building your future. I will engage with you to help you move forward in your life.
(805) 250-4448 View (805) 250-4448
Photo of Amrit Schneider, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amrit Schneider
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
CURRENT OPENINGS Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who utilizes an integrative and collaborative approach to create a strong alliance with each individual. I provide a holding space that fosters healing through self-awareness and building insight. My style is respectful, compassionate, and direct. I have extensive experience with goal-oriented approaches, as well as a deep understanding for how social and cultural contexts impact our lives. In addition, my work is influenced by psychoanalytic theory and attachment theory, and is informed by an awareness of trauma, including complex and inter-generational trauma.
CURRENT OPENINGS Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who utilizes an integrative and collaborative approach to create a strong alliance with each individual. I provide a holding space that fosters healing through self-awareness and building insight. My style is respectful, compassionate, and direct. I have extensive experience with goal-oriented approaches, as well as a deep understanding for how social and cultural contexts impact our lives. In addition, my work is influenced by psychoanalytic theory and attachment theory, and is informed by an awareness of trauma, including complex and inter-generational trauma.
(510) 422-1106 View (510) 422-1106
Photo of Alessandro Pagliai Londono, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Alessandro Pagliai Londono
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91106  (Online Only)
I practice from a deep mindfulness focus, operating from a psychoanalytic, psychodynamic, humanistic, existential, cbt/dbt, trauma focused, family systems lens.
I want to work with you as you are, perfectly imperfect. Moving towards goals of health and well being can take many different turns, every case is different. Explore your motivations or/and progress towards your goals effectively. I'm here to assist you in your journey. My clients want progress, honesty, skill in communication, thoughtfulness, high degree of analysis revealing insights, presence, want actionable items they can reflect on and practice throughout the week. My clients want a therapist who is professional, no fluff, no nonsense, direct and deeply knowledgeable in psychology and in general.
I practice from a deep mindfulness focus, operating from a psychoanalytic, psychodynamic, humanistic, existential, cbt/dbt, trauma focused, family systems lens.
I want to work with you as you are, perfectly imperfect. Moving towards goals of health and well being can take many different turns, every case is different. Explore your motivations or/and progress towards your goals effectively. I'm here to assist you in your journey. My clients want progress, honesty, skill in communication, thoughtfulness, high degree of analysis revealing insights, presence, want actionable items they can reflect on and practice throughout the week. My clients want a therapist who is professional, no fluff, no nonsense, direct and deeply knowledgeable in psychology and in general.
(626) 631-7704 View (626) 631-7704
Photo of David Brown - Brown Therapy Center, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brown Therapy Center
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
Though we draw from the traditional psychoanalytic frameworks, we aim to take an integrative approach to counseling that incorporates elements of philosophy, spirituality, and perspectives from across cultures.
We work with a diverse population of adult individuals, couples, and special interest groups who may be struggling with any number of mental health challenges related to anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship issues, and substance abuse, among others. We are committed to providing culturally competent care across the spectrum of age, race, gender, sexuality, religion, and background.
Though we draw from the traditional psychoanalytic frameworks, we aim to take an integrative approach to counseling that incorporates elements of philosophy, spirituality, and perspectives from across cultures.
We work with a diverse population of adult individuals, couples, and special interest groups who may be struggling with any number of mental health challenges related to anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship issues, and substance abuse, among others. We are committed to providing culturally competent care across the spectrum of age, race, gender, sexuality, religion, and background.
(415) 849-7242 View (415) 849-7242
Photo of Susan Bredhoff, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Bredhoff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Carpinteria, CA 93013  (Online Only)
I have depth psychoanalytic training as well as a psychodynamic focus and 30 years of experience working with trauma and the impact of early childhood on adult life.
I really believe in marriage--a supportive, nourishing partnership. Do you need help finding that relationship? Are you choosing the wrong person? Are you in a relationship that you want to make better? Let me help you develop the ability to grow, commit and sustain a satisfying relationship. We will explore the fears, anxieties, fantasies, patterns and past relationships creating obstacles to the goal of a mature relationship.
I have depth psychoanalytic training as well as a psychodynamic focus and 30 years of experience working with trauma and the impact of early childhood on adult life.
I really believe in marriage--a supportive, nourishing partnership. Do you need help finding that relationship? Are you choosing the wrong person? Are you in a relationship that you want to make better? Let me help you develop the ability to grow, commit and sustain a satisfying relationship. We will explore the fears, anxieties, fantasies, patterns and past relationships creating obstacles to the goal of a mature relationship.
(626) 486-9579 View (626) 486-9579
Photo of Elizabeth Rae Walker, MA, MBA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Rae Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MBA, MFT
Verified Verified
Orinda, CA 94563
I am trained in a variety of techniques, but lean more toward psychodynamic or psychoanalytic.
Living a life where struggling is a regular experience is difficult to change, because no one wants to feel worse. Therapy helps by talking through what's happened, what feels wrong and what ideas you have about it, all which may be conscious or unconscious. What's unconscious surfaces naturally through our work together. Most people enter therapy afraid, because they don't know where to start or are overwhelmed because so much has happened. I can help you navigate this terrain to relieve pain, clarify thoughts and beliefs, and improve well-being.
I am trained in a variety of techniques, but lean more toward psychodynamic or psychoanalytic.
Living a life where struggling is a regular experience is difficult to change, because no one wants to feel worse. Therapy helps by talking through what's happened, what feels wrong and what ideas you have about it, all which may be conscious or unconscious. What's unconscious surfaces naturally through our work together. Most people enter therapy afraid, because they don't know where to start or are overwhelmed because so much has happened. I can help you navigate this terrain to relieve pain, clarify thoughts and beliefs, and improve well-being.
(925) 259-3986 View (925) 259-3986
Photo of Dean Leav - Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94607
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(510) 983-7281 View (510) 983-7281
Photo of Jamie Pimentel, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jamie Pimentel
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064  (Online Only)
I earned my MA in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy from National University. I work from from a person-centered approach that incorporates influences from attachment and psychoanalytic perspectives. I collaborate with clients to identify and enlist their internal strengths and resources to approach life’s challenges. I have a background in healing various traumas through trauma informed somatic therapy, inner child trauma work, OCD, eating disorders, mood disorders, and addictions. I have extensive training in trauma, OCD, ADHD, and somatic therapy, and yoga.
I earned my MA in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy from National University. I work from from a person-centered approach that incorporates influences from attachment and psychoanalytic perspectives. I collaborate with clients to identify and enlist their internal strengths and resources to approach life’s challenges. I have a background in healing various traumas through trauma informed somatic therapy, inner child trauma work, OCD, eating disorders, mood disorders, and addictions. I have extensive training in trauma, OCD, ADHD, and somatic therapy, and yoga.
(310) 740-9828 View (310) 740-9828
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Psychoanalytic Therapists

Does psychoanalytic therapy work?

Psychoanalytic therapy derives from the work of Sigmund Freud. In this type of therapy, discovering buried thoughts and emotions from the unconscious will help a person work through their difficulties and negative behaviors. Research shows that psychoanalytic therapy can be highly effective, with patients reporting improvement in mood, quality of life, and overall well-being.

How long are people typically in psychoanalytic therapy?

Traditional psychoanalysis is in-depth and is conducted in five sessions every week. Today, modern psychoanalytic therapy is less intense and normally incorporates as few as one or two sessions a week. In some cases, positive change can occur quickly. However, if the condition, difficulty, or behavior is deep-seated, improvement may require many months or years of therapy.

Is psychoanalytic therapy suitable for young people?

Children and adolescents can benefit from this type of therapy. Many kids and teens are often unable to form and communicate their thoughts and emotions. Psychoanalytic therapy uses specific techniques such as dream analysis, symbolism, and free association or word association; all of which can be useful tools for less-communicative young people. Through this therapy, a patient will hopefully make connections between what they feel inside and how the world works outside.

Can psychoanalytic therapy be done online?

Modern-day psychoanalytic therapy is very different from traditional psychoanalysis. While an individual can sit face-to-face with the psychoanalyst for multiple sessions a week, they do not have to. Today, psychoanalytic therapy can be effectively conducted online or by phone. The key is that the individual confronts what is repressed and avoided, and this can be done whether in person or over online video.