Psychodynamic Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Rachel Shapiro, LCPC, Counselor
Rachel Shapiro
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
Rachel utilizes psychodynamic, internal family systems, and narrative techniques to gain insight, along with CBT and ACT to gain symptom relief.
Rachel works with individuals who do not fit in, do not want to fit in, or have been harmed by trying to fit into societal, social, or familial ‘norms’ or expectations; which often leaves them feeling less than enough. Rachel helps clients find their truth, their most authentic selves, and the life that fits them. She often helps individuals with dysfunctional family dynamics, anxiety, low self-esteem and negative self-talk, perfectionism, depression, alternative viewpoints, and neurodivergence. If you want to dig deeper to understand yourself, the world, and your place in it, Rachel is here for you!
Rachel utilizes psychodynamic, internal family systems, and narrative techniques to gain insight, along with CBT and ACT to gain symptom relief.
Rachel works with individuals who do not fit in, do not want to fit in, or have been harmed by trying to fit into societal, social, or familial ‘norms’ or expectations; which often leaves them feeling less than enough. Rachel helps clients find their truth, their most authentic selves, and the life that fits them. She often helps individuals with dysfunctional family dynamics, anxiety, low self-esteem and negative self-talk, perfectionism, depression, alternative viewpoints, and neurodivergence. If you want to dig deeper to understand yourself, the world, and your place in it, Rachel is here for you!
(773) 922-6125 View (773) 922-6125
Photo of Sheil A Shah, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheil A Shah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I practice with a holistic approach, combining aspects of acceptance based interventions, psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral theories, along with mindfulness and creativity to cultivate growth and help guide change.
Moving towards change can be one of the most difficult steps, even when it’s the step we want to take. Stuck, hurt, scared, or lost; finding your path again is possible. Whether you are returning to therapy or beginning for the first time, together we can identify what is holding you back and how to overcome it.
I practice with a holistic approach, combining aspects of acceptance based interventions, psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral theories, along with mindfulness and creativity to cultivate growth and help guide change.
Moving towards change can be one of the most difficult steps, even when it’s the step we want to take. Stuck, hurt, scared, or lost; finding your path again is possible. Whether you are returning to therapy or beginning for the first time, together we can identify what is holding you back and how to overcome it.
(773) 922-9024 View (773) 922-9024
Photo of Hugh L Cole III - Chicago Pride Center, LCSW, CADC, CGP
Chicago Pride Center
LCSW, CADC, CGP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
We offer individual, relational and group psychotherapy focusing on mood and behavioral issues, grief, trauma and substance use disorders with specializations in interpersonal dynamics, effective communication, relational and tri-phasic trauma work, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral, Motivational interviewing, Mindfulness and Psychodynamic therapies in safe, affirming community.
Chicago Pride Center offers a breadth of specializations and training to tailor the therapeutic experience to the needs and preferences of each client, serving children and adults throughout the life-course. We bring a depth of experience in work with LGBTQ+, Gender Expansive folx, Allys, non-monogamous relationships as well as veterans through trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, transformative justice and empowerment-based frameworks.
We offer individual, relational and group psychotherapy focusing on mood and behavioral issues, grief, trauma and substance use disorders with specializations in interpersonal dynamics, effective communication, relational and tri-phasic trauma work, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral, Motivational interviewing, Mindfulness and Psychodynamic therapies in safe, affirming community.
Chicago Pride Center offers a breadth of specializations and training to tailor the therapeutic experience to the needs and preferences of each client, serving children and adults throughout the life-course. We bring a depth of experience in work with LGBTQ+, Gender Expansive folx, Allys, non-monogamous relationships as well as veterans through trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, transformative justice and empowerment-based frameworks.
(773) 334-3533 View (773) 334-3533
Photo of Danielle M. McQuay, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle M. McQuay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60616  (Online Only)
I utilize a wide-range of theoretical orientations including cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and systemic evidence based practices.
Do you ever wonder is there more to life, more happiness, fulfillment? I have worked with a variety of populations including children and adults that are in crisis in the community, involved with the foster care system of Illinois (DCFS), struggle with self-esteem, confidence and feelings of loneliness. I’m known for cultivating self development, self care and determination; specializing in helping you connect with your fullest potential. As a team we will begin shifting your paradigm, developing a new attitude with new results, you desire.
I utilize a wide-range of theoretical orientations including cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and systemic evidence based practices.
Do you ever wonder is there more to life, more happiness, fulfillment? I have worked with a variety of populations including children and adults that are in crisis in the community, involved with the foster care system of Illinois (DCFS), struggle with self-esteem, confidence and feelings of loneliness. I’m known for cultivating self development, self care and determination; specializing in helping you connect with your fullest potential. As a team we will begin shifting your paradigm, developing a new attitude with new results, you desire.
(312) 471-0371 View (312) 471-0371
Photo of Caitlin Liddle, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Liddle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642  (Online Only)
Caitlin Liddle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) currently providing individual psychotherapy to adults. Caitlin received her Master's Degree at the University of Chicago's School of Social Service Administration in 2011. Since completing her degree, she has worked extensively with adults and adolescents, providing both group and individual therapy. Caitlin uses an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from her training in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, Family Systems, and Yoga Informed Psychotherapy to best meet the needs of her patients.
Caitlin Liddle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) currently providing individual psychotherapy to adults. Caitlin received her Master's Degree at the University of Chicago's School of Social Service Administration in 2011. Since completing her degree, she has worked extensively with adults and adolescents, providing both group and individual therapy. Caitlin uses an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from her training in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, Family Systems, and Yoga Informed Psychotherapy to best meet the needs of her patients.
(614) 763-6977 View (614) 763-6977
Photo of Rae Reed, MS , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rae Reed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS , LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60603
When working with clients, I love using psychodynamic therapy, DBT, CBT, ACT and story-focused therapies known as narrative therapy.
My philosophy in working with clients is to build a trusting relationship with them by learning about their story - their family's story, their personal story, their triumphs and their challenges. I then work with the client to use their strengths to help them form a new story, a story where they change ingrained habits and live the life they have always wanted to live. I like to use the relationship we have built together to help the client feel safe making these changes in a supported environment.
When working with clients, I love using psychodynamic therapy, DBT, CBT, ACT and story-focused therapies known as narrative therapy.
My philosophy in working with clients is to build a trusting relationship with them by learning about their story - their family's story, their personal story, their triumphs and their challenges. I then work with the client to use their strengths to help them form a new story, a story where they change ingrained habits and live the life they have always wanted to live. I like to use the relationship we have built together to help the client feel safe making these changes in a supported environment.
(312) 779-1923 View (312) 779-1923
Photo of Dr. Ashly C Lawrence, MA,  LCPC, PhD
Dr. Ashly C Lawrence
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
I work as a relational therapist from a psychodynamic lens.
Do you find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety, stress and interpersonal relationships? Do you have a difficult time managing the balance between work and your personal life? Do you feel overwhelmed by the demands of life right now. As a therapist, I am adept at addressing these and other issues that cause distress. Individual therapy is a time for you to reconnect with yourself and build self-awareness in order to cultivate the life you wish to live. Therapy is a transformative process in which I help guide clients through supportive treatment interventions. I hope to help support you on your journey !
I work as a relational therapist from a psychodynamic lens.
Do you find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety, stress and interpersonal relationships? Do you have a difficult time managing the balance between work and your personal life? Do you feel overwhelmed by the demands of life right now. As a therapist, I am adept at addressing these and other issues that cause distress. Individual therapy is a time for you to reconnect with yourself and build self-awareness in order to cultivate the life you wish to live. Therapy is a transformative process in which I help guide clients through supportive treatment interventions. I hope to help support you on your journey !
(872) 259-6125 View (872) 259-6125
Photo of Amy McGinnis Hogan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy McGinnis Hogan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
Along with Gottman, I use a psychodynamic approach to increase insight while using solution-based approaches to provide tangible coping skills for managing day to day.
I believe that growth and change are possible - but also - you might be exactly where you need to be in your life. Perhaps you just need to create more space for your authentic self to exist and grow. Working with both individuals and couples, I believe that a healthy relationship with ourself and others is an important part of our well-being. In addition to 1:1 therapy, I am a Level 2 Gottman trained couples therapist who specializes in helping couples strengthen connection, build intimacy, learn direct and loving communication skills and hone conflict management skills to help repair and connect more deeply in relationships.
Along with Gottman, I use a psychodynamic approach to increase insight while using solution-based approaches to provide tangible coping skills for managing day to day.
I believe that growth and change are possible - but also - you might be exactly where you need to be in your life. Perhaps you just need to create more space for your authentic self to exist and grow. Working with both individuals and couples, I believe that a healthy relationship with ourself and others is an important part of our well-being. In addition to 1:1 therapy, I am a Level 2 Gottman trained couples therapist who specializes in helping couples strengthen connection, build intimacy, learn direct and loving communication skills and hone conflict management skills to help repair and connect more deeply in relationships.
(872) 204-0609 View (872) 204-0609
Photo of Melissa Martin, LCPC
Melissa Martin
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647  (Online Only)
Depending on the needs of the client, I use diverse modalities such as psychodynamic psychotherapy, ACT, CBT, client-centered, trauma-informed care, dialectical behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, the Gottman Method, exposure work, and symptom management.
I am passionate about working with adults who are dealing with challenges including but not limited to: identifying and healing from trauma, identity exploration, interpersonal conflict, relationship with food and body, addictions, life transitions, eating disorders, mood disorders, stress management, and ADHD. The goal of my work with clients is for them to increase authenticity and vulnerability within the therapeutic relationship first, then translate that success to their lives outside of therapy. I empower clients with coping skills and provide a safe space for learning effective communication of and connection to emotions.
Depending on the needs of the client, I use diverse modalities such as psychodynamic psychotherapy, ACT, CBT, client-centered, trauma-informed care, dialectical behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, the Gottman Method, exposure work, and symptom management.
I am passionate about working with adults who are dealing with challenges including but not limited to: identifying and healing from trauma, identity exploration, interpersonal conflict, relationship with food and body, addictions, life transitions, eating disorders, mood disorders, stress management, and ADHD. The goal of my work with clients is for them to increase authenticity and vulnerability within the therapeutic relationship first, then translate that success to their lives outside of therapy. I empower clients with coping skills and provide a safe space for learning effective communication of and connection to emotions.
(312) 465-4765 View (312) 465-4765
Photo of Ella Hartel, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ella Hartel
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Ella aspires to meet her clients’ needs by using various evidence-based practices, including psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
Ella is a graduate-level counseling intern at Third Eye Counseling pursuing her masters degree in Clinical Social Work at Loyola University of Chicago. Ella specializes in working with young adults, adolescents, and children. She is particularly passionate about empowering and supporting young women and girls, especially those who seek to find their voice and make decisions more confidently. Ella meets all her clients with active listening, gentle guidance, and empathetic attunement, and is especially excited when clients can speak freely and openly with her and not feel judged.
Ella aspires to meet her clients’ needs by using various evidence-based practices, including psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
Ella is a graduate-level counseling intern at Third Eye Counseling pursuing her masters degree in Clinical Social Work at Loyola University of Chicago. Ella specializes in working with young adults, adolescents, and children. She is particularly passionate about empowering and supporting young women and girls, especially those who seek to find their voice and make decisions more confidently. Ella meets all her clients with active listening, gentle guidance, and empathetic attunement, and is especially excited when clients can speak freely and openly with her and not feel judged.
(773) 537-4802 View (773) 537-4802
Photo of Negin Ahmadi, LPC Intern
Negin Ahmadi
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60605
Greetings! I am a passionate Master's level clinical mental health counseling student at Northwestern University, dedicated to fostering positive change and resilience in individuals. My therapeutic approach is rooted in an integrative framework, with a strong foundation in psychodynamic theory. I am committed to creating a tailored experience that meets the unique needs of each client.
Greetings! I am a passionate Master's level clinical mental health counseling student at Northwestern University, dedicated to fostering positive change and resilience in individuals. My therapeutic approach is rooted in an integrative framework, with a strong foundation in psychodynamic theory. I am committed to creating a tailored experience that meets the unique needs of each client.
(708) 766-8539 View (708) 766-8539
Photo of Erica Brown, AM, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erica Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606  (Online Only)
I incorporate multiple modalities into my practice, including ACT and Psychodynamic therapies.
The weight of the world and our own pain or fear often feels so enormously heavy to carry alone; each of us needs a place to lay down these stressors and talk through the challenges we are carrying that feels caring, safe, and non-judgmental. As a therapist, it is my aim to have therapy serve as one of these soft landing places as you navigate the difficulties you are enduring. As you seek healing and clarity in your life, I will always offer a warm and empathetic environment for you to gain comfort and confidence in exploring who you are, what you want, and how past experiences or current circumstances currently impact your life.
I incorporate multiple modalities into my practice, including ACT and Psychodynamic therapies.
The weight of the world and our own pain or fear often feels so enormously heavy to carry alone; each of us needs a place to lay down these stressors and talk through the challenges we are carrying that feels caring, safe, and non-judgmental. As a therapist, it is my aim to have therapy serve as one of these soft landing places as you navigate the difficulties you are enduring. As you seek healing and clarity in your life, I will always offer a warm and empathetic environment for you to gain comfort and confidence in exploring who you are, what you want, and how past experiences or current circumstances currently impact your life.
(224) 651-8364 View (224) 651-8364
Photo of Samantha Gasaway, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Samantha Gasaway
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
My approach to therapy is primarily relationship-based and person-centered, including elements of ACT, psychodynamic, and existential modalities.
Reaching out to a therapist can feel vulnerable and overwhelming–I’ve been there too. I remember the fear and self-doubt involved in asking for help, but most importantly, I remember the therapists who helped me through. I’d love to do the same for you.
My approach to therapy is primarily relationship-based and person-centered, including elements of ACT, psychodynamic, and existential modalities.
Reaching out to a therapist can feel vulnerable and overwhelming–I’ve been there too. I remember the fear and self-doubt involved in asking for help, but most importantly, I remember the therapists who helped me through. I’d love to do the same for you.
(872) 278-5714 View (872) 278-5714
Photo of Tara Medow, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tara Medow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
I gather from existential, psychodynamic, relational, and evolutionary frameworks.
I like people, and I believe in an elastic understanding of the human condition. My approach is informal and centered in the belief people move within the world in ways that make sense to them. Daily decisions often reveal parts of the self developed during formative years; it is human to adapt emotions to stressful events. It is also human to reenact distress because it is familiar. Personhood is largely informed by the body's fundamental desire to feel physiological balance. Exposure to trauma may be part of someone’s balance, and therapy can be a place to gain clarity in ways we bond with ourselves/others and understand purpose.
I gather from existential, psychodynamic, relational, and evolutionary frameworks.
I like people, and I believe in an elastic understanding of the human condition. My approach is informal and centered in the belief people move within the world in ways that make sense to them. Daily decisions often reveal parts of the self developed during formative years; it is human to adapt emotions to stressful events. It is also human to reenact distress because it is familiar. Personhood is largely informed by the body's fundamental desire to feel physiological balance. Exposure to trauma may be part of someone’s balance, and therapy can be a place to gain clarity in ways we bond with ourselves/others and understand purpose.
(773) 825-9761 View (773) 825-9761
Photo of Kaitlyn Folkes, BA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kaitlyn Folkes
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60646
I practice from an emotions-focused, attachment, and psychodynamic lens.
I help people struggling with issues with relationships, anxiety, mood, grief, and trauma. I believe healing comes from mutually empowering relationships and therefore my approach to therapy is very collaborative. I consider it the highest honor and privilege to share in your life story and journey.
I practice from an emotions-focused, attachment, and psychodynamic lens.
I help people struggling with issues with relationships, anxiety, mood, grief, and trauma. I believe healing comes from mutually empowering relationships and therefore my approach to therapy is very collaborative. I consider it the highest honor and privilege to share in your life story and journey.
(773) 569-3582 View (773) 569-3582
Photo of Corbly Brockman, Pre-Licensed Professional
Corbly Brockman
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60643
My primary focus is to empower individuals on their therapeutic journeys by utilizing artistic practices and expression. Life isn’t one size fits all so it’s only fair that your therapy ought not be. My approach is integrative and includes elements of trauma and culturally informed practices, IFS, EMDR, DBT, feminist/Queer relational, psychodynamic, and client centered modalities. As a practicing interdisciplinary artist l utilize a variety of approaches to art making in my personal practice. Embodying a creative approach to healing that centers both empowerment and agency is at the center of my clinical practice.
My primary focus is to empower individuals on their therapeutic journeys by utilizing artistic practices and expression. Life isn’t one size fits all so it’s only fair that your therapy ought not be. My approach is integrative and includes elements of trauma and culturally informed practices, IFS, EMDR, DBT, feminist/Queer relational, psychodynamic, and client centered modalities. As a practicing interdisciplinary artist l utilize a variety of approaches to art making in my personal practice. Embodying a creative approach to healing that centers both empowerment and agency is at the center of my clinical practice.
(773) 322-1971 View (773) 322-1971
Photo of Lisa A Brown, MA, NCC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa A Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643  (Online Only)
Treatment will be tailored to your unique needs using an eclectic approach integrating psychodynamic, attachment-based, CBT, and trauma-informed methods, to name a few.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or in over your head? Do you find yourself in repeated failed relationships? You might be struggling with the fallout of childhood or relational trauma. Or, you might have difficulty regulating your emotions. If you seek to understand the root causes of your issues and foster real change, especially if you've felt ashamed, embarrassed or stigmatized for these issues, I would be honored to support you on your healing journey.
Treatment will be tailored to your unique needs using an eclectic approach integrating psychodynamic, attachment-based, CBT, and trauma-informed methods, to name a few.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or in over your head? Do you find yourself in repeated failed relationships? You might be struggling with the fallout of childhood or relational trauma. Or, you might have difficulty regulating your emotions. If you seek to understand the root causes of your issues and foster real change, especially if you've felt ashamed, embarrassed or stigmatized for these issues, I would be honored to support you on your healing journey.
(872) 266-7885 View (872) 266-7885
Photo of Alexis Sanders, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alexis Sanders
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647
Using a combination of narrative and psychodynamic theories, I provide a safe and nurturing space where you can explore your emotions and experiences without judgment.
Hi there, I'm Alexis Sanders, and I'm here to be your dedicated partner on your journey to personal growth and emotional well-being. My passion lies in helping individuals like you understand their thoughts, behaviors, and communication styles, and I'm committed to guiding you through life's challenges with unwavering support
Using a combination of narrative and psychodynamic theories, I provide a safe and nurturing space where you can explore your emotions and experiences without judgment.
Hi there, I'm Alexis Sanders, and I'm here to be your dedicated partner on your journey to personal growth and emotional well-being. My passion lies in helping individuals like you understand their thoughts, behaviors, and communication styles, and I'm committed to guiding you through life's challenges with unwavering support
(312) 945-0149 View (312) 945-0149
Photo of Katherine Corcoran - Katherine Corcoran PhD, PhD, Psychologist
Katherine Corcoran PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647  (Online Only)
Practicing for over twenty years and a graduate of the University of Chicago, my therapeutic approach is psychodynamic and interpersonal. I work with adults and specialize in women's health issues, frequently addressing anxiety and depression. By focusing on present issues and using past experiences to gain insights, it is possible to create tools for resolving problems, healing emotional wounds, and building coping skills. I believe that working within the interpersonal sphere builds the understanding, confirmation and acceptance necessary for the therapeutic relationship to thrive.
Practicing for over twenty years and a graduate of the University of Chicago, my therapeutic approach is psychodynamic and interpersonal. I work with adults and specialize in women's health issues, frequently addressing anxiety and depression. By focusing on present issues and using past experiences to gain insights, it is possible to create tools for resolving problems, healing emotional wounds, and building coping skills. I believe that working within the interpersonal sphere builds the understanding, confirmation and acceptance necessary for the therapeutic relationship to thrive.
(773) 985-8743 View (773) 985-8743
Photo of Karli Bigler, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karli Bigler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
My approach to therapy is relational based and I pull from psychodynamic and person-centered theory.
Starting therapy can feel scary and intimidating. You are looking for someone to share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with that will not judge you. I am here to help make that process easier. You deserve to have a space that is safe and supportive with a therapist that you know will fully accept you. I want to work with you to create a space infused with empathy, unconditional acceptance, and genuineness. You are welcome to show up just as you are and that is more than enough.
My approach to therapy is relational based and I pull from psychodynamic and person-centered theory.
Starting therapy can feel scary and intimidating. You are looking for someone to share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with that will not judge you. I am here to help make that process easier. You deserve to have a space that is safe and supportive with a therapist that you know will fully accept you. I want to work with you to create a space infused with empathy, unconditional acceptance, and genuineness. You are welcome to show up just as you are and that is more than enough.
(773) 839-9260 x515 View (773) 839-9260 x515
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.