Psychodynamic Therapists in San Francisco, CA
![Photo of Isa Hershoff-Looper, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cc65f72-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Isa Hershoff-Looper
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
Welcome. I have been a licensed therapist for over 20 years and have a wealth of knowledge and experience. I am currently available to work individual adults to manage their life transitions, challenges and improve coping skills. I work with you to learn about yourself and find the path that fits you. I am compassionate and creative in my approach to therapy. I use Cognitive BehavioralTx in conjunction with a psychodynamic approach to guiding you through examining your thoughts and feelings. I am also a certified TRE practitioner and can provide support for releasing trauma stored in the body. Please see my website for more info
Welcome. I have been a licensed therapist for over 20 years and have a wealth of knowledge and experience. I am currently available to work individual adults to manage their life transitions, challenges and improve coping skills. I work with you to learn about yourself and find the path that fits you. I am compassionate and creative in my approach to therapy. I use Cognitive BehavioralTx in conjunction with a psychodynamic approach to guiding you through examining your thoughts and feelings. I am also a certified TRE practitioner and can provide support for releasing trauma stored in the body. Please see my website for more info
![Photo of Jonathan Mitchelmore, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/845fcfb2-0a61-4938-aacf-3708e14c9823/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jonathan Mitchelmore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is based on respect and collaboration, and combines psychodynamic therapy with evidence based treatments (CBT, ACT, DBT, EMDR, harm reduction, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness).
I work with adults and adolescents 15 and older who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. I provide a relaxed, safe, and supportive environment to help you explore the challenges you are facing. I help you harness your own strengths in order to remove obstacles to your growth and healing.
My approach is based on respect and collaboration, and combines psychodynamic therapy with evidence based treatments (CBT, ACT, DBT, EMDR, harm reduction, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness).
I work with adults and adolescents 15 and older who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. I provide a relaxed, safe, and supportive environment to help you explore the challenges you are facing. I help you harness your own strengths in order to remove obstacles to your growth and healing.
![Photo of Mariya Mykhaylova, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/220216dd-437e-4304-9cb4-5edd1e3e6bb9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mariya Mykhaylova
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110
My approach integrates psychodynamic theory/depth therapy, attachment theory, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), The Gottman Method, narrative therapy, and mindfulness.
The people who come to me are curious to get to know themselves in a deeper way. I support my clients with improving connection and managing conflict in their relationships, embracing authenticity, mitigating perfectionism, setting healthy boundaries, interrupting unhelpful patterns, mindfully reducing anxiety, and healing from trauma. Together, we can work toward both short-term and long-term change.
My approach integrates psychodynamic theory/depth therapy, attachment theory, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), The Gottman Method, narrative therapy, and mindfulness.
The people who come to me are curious to get to know themselves in a deeper way. I support my clients with improving connection and managing conflict in their relationships, embracing authenticity, mitigating perfectionism, setting healthy boundaries, interrupting unhelpful patterns, mindfully reducing anxiety, and healing from trauma. Together, we can work toward both short-term and long-term change.
![Photo of Pauline Jarakian, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3be6a8d8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
I employ Psychodynamic (past) and Cognitive Behavioral (present) as well as Attachment theory to look at factors that are maintaining current problems and collaborate together to establish therapy goals.
I am a longstanding Marriage Family and Child psychotherapist with extensive experience working with all traumas, depression, anxiety, attachment and relationship difficulties. I'm committed to being a culturally competent therapist, my practice is diverse and includes individuals, families, adults, adolescents, children and couples of all ages, races, genders and sexual orientations. I specialize in working with postpartum depression and infant parent therapy with mothers and babies. I supervise for MFT interns at USF's Family and Child Center and am an Adjunct Professor in USF's Graduate School of Counseling Psychology.
I employ Psychodynamic (past) and Cognitive Behavioral (present) as well as Attachment theory to look at factors that are maintaining current problems and collaborate together to establish therapy goals.
I am a longstanding Marriage Family and Child psychotherapist with extensive experience working with all traumas, depression, anxiety, attachment and relationship difficulties. I'm committed to being a culturally competent therapist, my practice is diverse and includes individuals, families, adults, adolescents, children and couples of all ages, races, genders and sexual orientations. I specialize in working with postpartum depression and infant parent therapy with mothers and babies. I supervise for MFT interns at USF's Family and Child Center and am an Adjunct Professor in USF's Graduate School of Counseling Psychology.
![Photo of Laura Joiner, MA, MFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c59a43c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Adolescence can be a challenging phase of life. Whether it is struggling with self image, anxiety, depression, stress, aggression, defiance, or social or academic difficulties, I specialize in working with teens and their families to address these issues. My style is collaborative, warm, and interactive - yet straight forward. I focus on strengths to promote positive change. People come to grow in a variety of ways, and as a result, I draw from Cognitive Behavioral (including Trauma-Focused CBT), Psychodynamic, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Narrative theories to best meet my clients' needs. Please see my website for further details about my background.
Adolescence can be a challenging phase of life. Whether it is struggling with self image, anxiety, depression, stress, aggression, defiance, or social or academic difficulties, I specialize in working with teens and their families to address these issues. My style is collaborative, warm, and interactive - yet straight forward. I focus on strengths to promote positive change. People come to grow in a variety of ways, and as a result, I draw from Cognitive Behavioral (including Trauma-Focused CBT), Psychodynamic, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Narrative theories to best meet my clients' needs. Please see my website for further details about my background.
![Photo of Sophia Shu Wang, MA, MT-BC, ADHD-CC, CCTP-I, CCBT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7906b026-5234-4e0f-9def-15509fe48ed1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Through my 10 years of experience working with people of all ages and cultural backgrounds from NYC to SF, I developed a very collaborative approach, which includes but not limited to humanistic, psychodynamic, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral. I integrate creative modality with practical CBT, ACT, Trauma Informed Therapy, and Coaching to reach the best outcome for each individual. I help my clients connect with purpose, passion, and community to go from managing difficult times to thriving and living life fully.
Through my 10 years of experience working with people of all ages and cultural backgrounds from NYC to SF, I developed a very collaborative approach, which includes but not limited to humanistic, psychodynamic, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral. I integrate creative modality with practical CBT, ACT, Trauma Informed Therapy, and Coaching to reach the best outcome for each individual. I help my clients connect with purpose, passion, and community to go from managing difficult times to thriving and living life fully.
![Photo of Kadence Mitchell, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68f84b24-2708-4ca8-a74f-903f02c346fc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kadence Mitchell
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
My approach is eclectic and evidence-based, with a range of interventions like psychodynamic, narrative therapy, motivational interviewing, CBT and art therapy.
As a Black, queer femme with mixed ancestry, I carry with me both a personal and professional understanding of the systems of oppression and domination that entangle with identity and wreak havoc in our lives. I have specific interest and experience working with those struggling with racial identity, sexual identity and gender identity; those healing from and finding their independence from/within dysfunctional family dynamics; folks who have been affected by intimate partner violence and dating violence; and those seeking to uncover patterns of intergenerational trauma within themselves and their family systems.
My approach is eclectic and evidence-based, with a range of interventions like psychodynamic, narrative therapy, motivational interviewing, CBT and art therapy.
As a Black, queer femme with mixed ancestry, I carry with me both a personal and professional understanding of the systems of oppression and domination that entangle with identity and wreak havoc in our lives. I have specific interest and experience working with those struggling with racial identity, sexual identity and gender identity; those healing from and finding their independence from/within dysfunctional family dynamics; folks who have been affected by intimate partner violence and dating violence; and those seeking to uncover patterns of intergenerational trauma within themselves and their family systems.
![Photo of Hong Guo, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b00b58a-cf9a-4083-953f-07b5017b3514/2/320x400.jpeg)
My treatment approach blends psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, and solution-focused therapy techniques.
As a licensed clinical psychologist fluent in both English and Mandarin, I provide individual psychotherapy. In addition to my general therapy practice, where I treat people struggling with anxiety, depression, work and relationship issues, I also specialize in the treatment of trauma, personality disorders, grief, bereavement, gender issues, major life transitions, and cross-cultural adjustment. Therapy can be beneficial for people seeking understanding of their internal struggles, overwhelming emotional distress, or confusing symptoms and recurring negative experiences.
My treatment approach blends psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, and solution-focused therapy techniques.
As a licensed clinical psychologist fluent in both English and Mandarin, I provide individual psychotherapy. In addition to my general therapy practice, where I treat people struggling with anxiety, depression, work and relationship issues, I also specialize in the treatment of trauma, personality disorders, grief, bereavement, gender issues, major life transitions, and cross-cultural adjustment. Therapy can be beneficial for people seeking understanding of their internal struggles, overwhelming emotional distress, or confusing symptoms and recurring negative experiences.
![Photo of Peggy Kim, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a4b28a9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work relationally psychodynamic/psychoanalytic with present-centered approaches that bring attention and mindfulness to what is overlooked or difficult to address.
Often in life there are unexpected events or life transitions that challenge our abilities to cope or understand our sense of self or purpose. When what has been helpful to navigate life is no longer working, symptoms may show up in the form of sadness, depression, anxiety, stress, physical ailments, feelings of isolation, or an overwhelm of emotions that may be difficult to manage alone. I view therapy as a unique opportunity for honest observation and exploration in service of creating a deeper connection with your inherent nature as a way to discover how you can find support from yourself, as well as, feel supported by others.
I work relationally psychodynamic/psychoanalytic with present-centered approaches that bring attention and mindfulness to what is overlooked or difficult to address.
Often in life there are unexpected events or life transitions that challenge our abilities to cope or understand our sense of self or purpose. When what has been helpful to navigate life is no longer working, symptoms may show up in the form of sadness, depression, anxiety, stress, physical ailments, feelings of isolation, or an overwhelm of emotions that may be difficult to manage alone. I view therapy as a unique opportunity for honest observation and exploration in service of creating a deeper connection with your inherent nature as a way to discover how you can find support from yourself, as well as, feel supported by others.
![Photo of Caroline P. Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d5edca2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
The modalities I use in my practice are accelerated experiential dynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness practices, somatic psychotherapy, relational and psychodynamic psychotherapy.
I approach my work with clients with compassion, authenticity and openness. As a psychotherapist, I will work together with you to access the resources you have within you. When you are able to connect with this core strength, you are able to see more possibilities. Clients have reported that ,through our work together, they have developed a deeper understanding of themselves, more openness to meaningful and fulfilling experiences and a greater capacity for connection with others. They have also reported that their underlying depression has been alleviated and they have a greater ability to manage the stress in their lives.
The modalities I use in my practice are accelerated experiential dynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness practices, somatic psychotherapy, relational and psychodynamic psychotherapy.
I approach my work with clients with compassion, authenticity and openness. As a psychotherapist, I will work together with you to access the resources you have within you. When you are able to connect with this core strength, you are able to see more possibilities. Clients have reported that ,through our work together, they have developed a deeper understanding of themselves, more openness to meaningful and fulfilling experiences and a greater capacity for connection with others. They have also reported that their underlying depression has been alleviated and they have a greater ability to manage the stress in their lives.
![Photo of Jessica Good, AMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0898d28e-cc6d-45d9-b4e7-ca74a610a573/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Good
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
I am trained in psychodynamic therapy and performance psychology, and I take a trauma informed approach to my work.
Hi, I’m Jessica Good. I specialize in working with individuals to improve their mental health and achieve their goals. Whether I am helping my clients manage anxiety or stress, low self-esteem, or the ability to focus under pressure, I take a strengths-based approach to building a confident mindset. I currently work primarily with athletes and professionals, as well as provide teams and businesses with workshops and presentations. Previously, I supported high-level actors in talent management to succeed both creatively and professionally.
I am trained in psychodynamic therapy and performance psychology, and I take a trauma informed approach to my work.
Hi, I’m Jessica Good. I specialize in working with individuals to improve their mental health and achieve their goals. Whether I am helping my clients manage anxiety or stress, low self-esteem, or the ability to focus under pressure, I take a strengths-based approach to building a confident mindset. I currently work primarily with athletes and professionals, as well as provide teams and businesses with workshops and presentations. Previously, I supported high-level actors in talent management to succeed both creatively and professionally.
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![Photo of Sudi Scull, MFT, CN, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acd9e06f-57dc-44d3-9a82-3377e0b5b4ab/1/320x400.jpeg)
I integrate psychodynamic, cognitive/behavioral, & EMDR for trauma.
We all at some point in our life face crises or transitions that can become an opportunity for growth. Do you want to know more about yourself? Do you finally want to make a change? I help clients break through patterns of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, body image issues, and more. I offer a rich menu of therapeutic techniques that make a tangible difference. Instead of experiencing an exaggerated reactivity to life's inevitable difficulties, a balanced sense of calm and peace will prevail. With couples, I teach nuanced communication skills towards the goal of a deep, fun-loving, and interdependent relationship.
I integrate psychodynamic, cognitive/behavioral, & EMDR for trauma.
We all at some point in our life face crises or transitions that can become an opportunity for growth. Do you want to know more about yourself? Do you finally want to make a change? I help clients break through patterns of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, body image issues, and more. I offer a rich menu of therapeutic techniques that make a tangible difference. Instead of experiencing an exaggerated reactivity to life's inevitable difficulties, a balanced sense of calm and peace will prevail. With couples, I teach nuanced communication skills towards the goal of a deep, fun-loving, and interdependent relationship.
![Photo of Megan Williams, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/458fbff6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94109
I offer a warm, collaborative approach intended to foster personal growth and self understanding for individuals and couples. I specialize in helping clients navigate through relationship challenges addictions, self esteem issues ,Premarital and Divorce challenges. Using psychodynamic , holistic and present moment therapeutic approaches , my work is intended to help clients cultivate their own inner healing and enabling them to make meaningful and lasting change. Honoring every individual and couple as unique, I bring an engaged and compassionate presence to our work together.
I offer a warm, collaborative approach intended to foster personal growth and self understanding for individuals and couples. I specialize in helping clients navigate through relationship challenges addictions, self esteem issues ,Premarital and Divorce challenges. Using psychodynamic , holistic and present moment therapeutic approaches , my work is intended to help clients cultivate their own inner healing and enabling them to make meaningful and lasting change. Honoring every individual and couple as unique, I bring an engaged and compassionate presence to our work together.
![Photo of Roberto Garcia II, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68fe784f-e758-4b3b-9d10-64e03fd07b0f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Roberto Garcia II
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94112 (Online Only)
Modalities used include: Psychodynamic, CBT, Existential, Narrative, and Solution Focused.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist certified to provide mental health services in the state of California. I have been providing mental health services for the past 6 years working with non-profit community mental health clinics, probation offices & court systems, middle school, high schools and now as a private practice clinician. Within these settings, I have had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, parents, teenagers, children and families at many different phases of life and personal development.
Modalities used include: Psychodynamic, CBT, Existential, Narrative, and Solution Focused.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist certified to provide mental health services in the state of California. I have been providing mental health services for the past 6 years working with non-profit community mental health clinics, probation offices & court systems, middle school, high schools and now as a private practice clinician. Within these settings, I have had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, parents, teenagers, children and families at many different phases of life and personal development.
![Photo of Jasper Cornelius Mather, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/730d6f5f-0931-4e35-96ad-33b3da151ce0/1/320x400.jpeg)
My approach is both client-centered and psychodynamic, meaning that I prioritize the unique needs, attachments, and goals of each person.
I am passionate about helping individuals in the transgender community navigate the unique challenges that come with gender identity and expression. As a transgender person myself, I understand firsthand the complexity of these issues and the importance of providing a safe and inclusive space for clients to explore their identity. I believe that every person has the capacity to heal and grow, and I am committed to providing a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where clients can explore their identity, work through challenges, and build resilience. I also work with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship issues.
My approach is both client-centered and psychodynamic, meaning that I prioritize the unique needs, attachments, and goals of each person.
I am passionate about helping individuals in the transgender community navigate the unique challenges that come with gender identity and expression. As a transgender person myself, I understand firsthand the complexity of these issues and the importance of providing a safe and inclusive space for clients to explore their identity. I believe that every person has the capacity to heal and grow, and I am committed to providing a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where clients can explore their identity, work through challenges, and build resilience. I also work with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship issues.
![Photo of Erik Paul Anton Deiters, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93deb042-2ab2-4a74-bbd9-8808c43a190d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erik Paul Anton Deiters
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Francisco and Sebastopol, California. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and EMDR. I work with individuals and couples to treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, and other mental health issues, as well as substance use and within the LGBTQ+ community.
I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Francisco and Sebastopol, California. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and EMDR. I work with individuals and couples to treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, and other mental health issues, as well as substance use and within the LGBTQ+ community.
![Photo of Jackson Doyle, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13298a64-d3a5-47f5-99bb-ad28b8ea22e1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jackson Doyle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110 (Online Only)
My treatment approach is trauma-informed and integrative, drawing from evidence-based modalities such as CBT, ACT, and DBT, as well as depth and insight-oriented techniques from my training in psychodynamic practice.
As a psychotherapist with a decade of experience in hospitals, primary care clinics, and the broader public health system, I have experience with a wide range of issues and with individuals of diverse backgrounds.
My treatment approach is trauma-informed and integrative, drawing from evidence-based modalities such as CBT, ACT, and DBT, as well as depth and insight-oriented techniques from my training in psychodynamic practice.
As a psychotherapist with a decade of experience in hospitals, primary care clinics, and the broader public health system, I have experience with a wide range of issues and with individuals of diverse backgrounds.
![Photo of Kathlynn Gates, ASW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f2f4b71-9faa-4634-ae8e-b5e7d0b42f63/1/320x400.png)
In my practice, I utilize CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic theory, and attachment theory to help clients experience healing that involves engaging both the mind and body.
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
In my practice, I utilize CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic theory, and attachment theory to help clients experience healing that involves engaging both the mind and body.
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
![Photo of Chantal Daley, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a68ed2e-1a83-4c7f-ac8a-d5806c30516a/1/320x400.png)
Do you find yourself having a difficult time coping with anxiety, depression, and trauma? Do you have a hard time communicating and setting boundaries with others? Life is full of obstacles and hardships that may be difficult to overcome without the right tools, resources, and, guidance leading to the manifestation of these symptoms. I specialize in working with adults, couples, and adolescents using a Psychodynamic approach to explore unconscious thoughts and behaviors. In doing this, we are able to collaboratively recognize old ineffective patterns and process unresolved feelings and trauma.
Do you find yourself having a difficult time coping with anxiety, depression, and trauma? Do you have a hard time communicating and setting boundaries with others? Life is full of obstacles and hardships that may be difficult to overcome without the right tools, resources, and, guidance leading to the manifestation of these symptoms. I specialize in working with adults, couples, and adolescents using a Psychodynamic approach to explore unconscious thoughts and behaviors. In doing this, we are able to collaboratively recognize old ineffective patterns and process unresolved feelings and trauma.
![Photo of Emily Palmer-Rice, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33a2d67d-5ee4-4c03-9215-b5f66fb14b2d/2/320x400.jpeg)
While I am grounded in psychodynamic therapy, my treatment approach blends elements from a variety of behavioral therapies.
People often come to therapy after something has become too challenging to address on their own. Recognizing this need for a change in your life is significant and scary, but it marks the initial step toward healing and thriving. This thriving is more than symptom alleviation—it goes beyond quick fixes, surpasses mere functionality. Thriving entails experiencing a sense of wholeness, finding satisfaction in your life, and cultivating your relationships. Exploring the healing process holds the potential for a transformative impact on your life.
While I am grounded in psychodynamic therapy, my treatment approach blends elements from a variety of behavioral therapies.
People often come to therapy after something has become too challenging to address on their own. Recognizing this need for a change in your life is significant and scary, but it marks the initial step toward healing and thriving. This thriving is more than symptom alleviation—it goes beyond quick fixes, surpasses mere functionality. Thriving entails experiencing a sense of wholeness, finding satisfaction in your life, and cultivating your relationships. Exploring the healing process holds the potential for a transformative impact on your life.
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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.