Psychodynamic Therapists in Philadelphia, PA
My work is psychodynamic in nature, which means that I work to help clients gain insight into what is happening outside of their immediate awareness.
I work with adults, young adults, and teens in individual therapy. Some common focuses include depression, anxiety, relationship/family of origin difficulties, sexual concerns, and grief. I specialize in trauma work, which may involve addressing problems feeling reminded of a distressing past event, issues with memory and dissociation, in addition to interpersonal difficulties.
My work is psychodynamic in nature, which means that I work to help clients gain insight into what is happening outside of their immediate awareness.
I work with adults, young adults, and teens in individual therapy. Some common focuses include depression, anxiety, relationship/family of origin difficulties, sexual concerns, and grief. I specialize in trauma work, which may involve addressing problems feeling reminded of a distressing past event, issues with memory and dissociation, in addition to interpersonal difficulties.
Jae (Jennifer) Swanson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MMT, MT-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19143 (Online Only)
My integrative approach to therapy is trauma-informed, client-centered, relational, resource-oriented, and informed by psychodynamic and attachment theories.
I am a psychotherapist and music therapist. I enjoy working with kids, teens, and adults of all ages. I approach therapy from an anti-oppressive and systems perspective, meaning that my primary lens seeks to understand systemic barriers and discriminatory cultural contexts that impact the well-being of those I work with. I am well positioned to work with folks who are LGBTQIA+ and/or inhabit non-traditional family/relationship structures. I have many years of experience working with folks who are grieving, chronically/terminally ill, autistic, depressed, anxious, and folks who have experienced trauma.
My integrative approach to therapy is trauma-informed, client-centered, relational, resource-oriented, and informed by psychodynamic and attachment theories.
I am a psychotherapist and music therapist. I enjoy working with kids, teens, and adults of all ages. I approach therapy from an anti-oppressive and systems perspective, meaning that my primary lens seeks to understand systemic barriers and discriminatory cultural contexts that impact the well-being of those I work with. I am well positioned to work with folks who are LGBTQIA+ and/or inhabit non-traditional family/relationship structures. I have many years of experience working with folks who are grieving, chronically/terminally ill, autistic, depressed, anxious, and folks who have experienced trauma.
I offer psychodynamic psychotherapy with full support and thorough understanding of the 12-step model of recovery, and a means of addressing “outside issues” in this context.
At times you may feel too depleted to consider making needed changes in your life, or to know what is even possible to change. Old coping mechanisms no longer work so well, bringing diminishing returns and unhappiness. It may take a crisis to be ready to seek help. Psychotherapy can reveal ways of replacing the behavior patterns and symptoms that cause us trouble with real solutions. Using the insights of existential and psychodynamic perspectives of psychology - including dream work - as a basis, I will help you understand yourself, care for yourself, and discover strength and meaning wherever you may find yourself in your life.
I offer psychodynamic psychotherapy with full support and thorough understanding of the 12-step model of recovery, and a means of addressing “outside issues” in this context.
At times you may feel too depleted to consider making needed changes in your life, or to know what is even possible to change. Old coping mechanisms no longer work so well, bringing diminishing returns and unhappiness. It may take a crisis to be ready to seek help. Psychotherapy can reveal ways of replacing the behavior patterns and symptoms that cause us trouble with real solutions. Using the insights of existential and psychodynamic perspectives of psychology - including dream work - as a basis, I will help you understand yourself, care for yourself, and discover strength and meaning wherever you may find yourself in your life.
Jasmine Harlan
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19143 (Online Only)
My approach is eclectic and tailored to each client's needs, with a special emphasis on modalities such as psychodynamic therapy, DBT, mindfulness, IFS, and humanistic therapy.
My clients come from a wide range of backgrounds but all have one thing in common - a need for support and connection. As a therapist I play many roles: the listener, the supportive cheerleader, the teacher, the witness, the container and more. My goal is to provide a safe and validating space for my clients to explore their innermost thoughts, feelings, memories, and desires without judgment. I am not here to "fix" you - rather, I am here to serve as your guide to wellness and life satisfaction. This process can look different for everyone!
My approach is eclectic and tailored to each client's needs, with a special emphasis on modalities such as psychodynamic therapy, DBT, mindfulness, IFS, and humanistic therapy.
My clients come from a wide range of backgrounds but all have one thing in common - a need for support and connection. As a therapist I play many roles: the listener, the supportive cheerleader, the teacher, the witness, the container and more. My goal is to provide a safe and validating space for my clients to explore their innermost thoughts, feelings, memories, and desires without judgment. I am not here to "fix" you - rather, I am here to serve as your guide to wellness and life satisfaction. This process can look different for everyone!
My approach is psychodynamic, focusing on understanding and insight.
It's not easy to find the right psychotherapist. You want someone who is empathic while remaining professional, intuitive as well as smart, compassionate without sacrificing competence, warm but able to remain clear and focused. Someone you "click" with, someone you can trust and have confidence in, someone who will be your ally in figuring out the puzzle that is you. With over 30 years' experience as a licensed Clinical Psychologist in Center City Philadelphia, I may be the psychotherapist you seek. I specialize in treating individual adults and couples with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, or life transitions.
My approach is psychodynamic, focusing on understanding and insight.
It's not easy to find the right psychotherapist. You want someone who is empathic while remaining professional, intuitive as well as smart, compassionate without sacrificing competence, warm but able to remain clear and focused. Someone you "click" with, someone you can trust and have confidence in, someone who will be your ally in figuring out the puzzle that is you. With over 30 years' experience as a licensed Clinical Psychologist in Center City Philadelphia, I may be the psychotherapist you seek. I specialize in treating individual adults and couples with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, or life transitions.
I utilize an integrative model, drawing from relational, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, EMDR, and attachment based approaches.
Many find themselves at a point in their lives where external support is necessary to navigate life's challenges. My clients seek therapy for a variety of reasons. Some may come to therapy to deal with a specific struggle, such as anxiety or depression, while others initiate therapy during a difficult life transition. Even positive transitions, such as getting a new job or starting a new relationship can be stressful. Together, we will merge our resources to address these challenges in a safe environment by exploring patterns, processing events from the past, and creating plans for change in the future.
I utilize an integrative model, drawing from relational, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, EMDR, and attachment based approaches.
Many find themselves at a point in their lives where external support is necessary to navigate life's challenges. My clients seek therapy for a variety of reasons. Some may come to therapy to deal with a specific struggle, such as anxiety or depression, while others initiate therapy during a difficult life transition. Even positive transitions, such as getting a new job or starting a new relationship can be stressful. Together, we will merge our resources to address these challenges in a safe environment by exploring patterns, processing events from the past, and creating plans for change in the future.
My individual and couples work is informed by psychodynamic, relational, and trauma-focused modalities, with a focus on topics surrounding anxiety & depression, relationships, sex, kink/bdsm, sexuality, gender, and substance use.
My experience working with LGBTQ people and clients of various backgrounds in mental health settings has shown me that personal change occurs best through relationships based on trust, and a common purpose. Relationships where you are encouraged to say what’s on your mind, be challenged, take risks, and gain new insights. In our sessions, I will focus on honoring your autonomy as we work towards your goals for therapy. My intention is not to teach you a “correct way to live" but instead to learn what already works for you and help create a space to explore yourself further leading to new possibilities for your life.
My individual and couples work is informed by psychodynamic, relational, and trauma-focused modalities, with a focus on topics surrounding anxiety & depression, relationships, sex, kink/bdsm, sexuality, gender, and substance use.
My experience working with LGBTQ people and clients of various backgrounds in mental health settings has shown me that personal change occurs best through relationships based on trust, and a common purpose. Relationships where you are encouraged to say what’s on your mind, be challenged, take risks, and gain new insights. In our sessions, I will focus on honoring your autonomy as we work towards your goals for therapy. My intention is not to teach you a “correct way to live" but instead to learn what already works for you and help create a space to explore yourself further leading to new possibilities for your life.
I draw from a variety of theories including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems and my ongoing study of somatic strategies, and trauma reprocessing techniques.
In each of my therapy sessions, I seek to give the right support for clients to talk about the things that really matter. I listen carefully and engage deeply so I can provide the feedback and reflection you need to find your path forward with more clarity and confidence. I use my knowledge and experience to help you connect the dots and realize you are not alone. I believe change comes in small steps and I'm here to support you and to celebrate every victory.
I draw from a variety of theories including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems and my ongoing study of somatic strategies, and trauma reprocessing techniques.
In each of my therapy sessions, I seek to give the right support for clients to talk about the things that really matter. I listen carefully and engage deeply so I can provide the feedback and reflection you need to find your path forward with more clarity and confidence. I use my knowledge and experience to help you connect the dots and realize you are not alone. I believe change comes in small steps and I'm here to support you and to celebrate every victory.
I use both a psychodynamic and growth-oriented approach informed by emotion-focused therapy, IFS, and mindfulness.
Hi, my name is Hyelee (pronounced Haley despite the spelling), and I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist who brings my humor, intuition, and attentive ear to each of my clients. I see life as a journey through a world that can be both beautiful and broken; a journey that in turn shapes how we see ourselves and others. I am invested in helping clients more deeply understand their intra-and interpersonal patterns and the existential themes of their lives. I especially love working with couples because we are hard-wired for connection and belonging, and the quality of our relationships acutely impacts our sense of wellbeing.
I use both a psychodynamic and growth-oriented approach informed by emotion-focused therapy, IFS, and mindfulness.
Hi, my name is Hyelee (pronounced Haley despite the spelling), and I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist who brings my humor, intuition, and attentive ear to each of my clients. I see life as a journey through a world that can be both beautiful and broken; a journey that in turn shapes how we see ourselves and others. I am invested in helping clients more deeply understand their intra-and interpersonal patterns and the existential themes of their lives. I especially love working with couples because we are hard-wired for connection and belonging, and the quality of our relationships acutely impacts our sense of wellbeing.
Melissa Greberman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19106 (Online Only)
In my practice I draw from multiple modalities including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Psychodynamic Therapy.
Recognizing you may need support and looking for a therapist is not easy. In my practice, I strive to create a non-judgmental and supportive environment where you can express yourself freely and feel seen and heard. I provide a calm, compassionate presence and believe in the value of building a strong therapeutic relationship to support growth and healing. I have experience supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, caregiving, stages of illness, and grief and loss.
In my practice I draw from multiple modalities including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Psychodynamic Therapy.
Recognizing you may need support and looking for a therapist is not easy. In my practice, I strive to create a non-judgmental and supportive environment where you can express yourself freely and feel seen and heard. I provide a calm, compassionate presence and believe in the value of building a strong therapeutic relationship to support growth and healing. I have experience supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, caregiving, stages of illness, and grief and loss.
I use a relational, somatic, psychodynamic approach, focusing on your emotions, body, and mind.
However you show up, my bottom line is to provide a safe, respectful, and validating space where you are listened to without assumptions, judgement, or an agenda. I have diverse practice experiences that taught me to listen beyond words and look beyond appearances. My trainings in art and music allow me to do so with greater agility and accuracy, bringing us closer to your inner voice and shedding light on your inner world. This foundation of human-to-human understanding will help us work together as partners to reach your goals - whether it is healing, growth, self-exploration, or change - with a deep sense of clarity and peace.
I use a relational, somatic, psychodynamic approach, focusing on your emotions, body, and mind.
However you show up, my bottom line is to provide a safe, respectful, and validating space where you are listened to without assumptions, judgement, or an agenda. I have diverse practice experiences that taught me to listen beyond words and look beyond appearances. My trainings in art and music allow me to do so with greater agility and accuracy, bringing us closer to your inner voice and shedding light on your inner world. This foundation of human-to-human understanding will help us work together as partners to reach your goals - whether it is healing, growth, self-exploration, or change - with a deep sense of clarity and peace.
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Christine Gehringer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19130 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In our work together, I will draw upon your innate strengths, psychodynamic therapy and cognitive behavioral therapies including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Problem Solving Therapy.
If you are experiencing difficulty resolving the current challenges in your life, I am here to help. I am a licensed clinical social worker who has spent over a decade working with individuals of diverse backgrounds and experiences, treating issues of trauma, depression, anxiety and relationship conflict. As a social worker, I believe that seeing, hearing and serving those who are oppressed is crucial to addressing the injustices within our society. My practice with you will be respectful and non-judgmental as we all struggle at times, and it is critical to have a source of support with whom we feel safe and can be open.
In our work together, I will draw upon your innate strengths, psychodynamic therapy and cognitive behavioral therapies including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Problem Solving Therapy.
If you are experiencing difficulty resolving the current challenges in your life, I am here to help. I am a licensed clinical social worker who has spent over a decade working with individuals of diverse backgrounds and experiences, treating issues of trauma, depression, anxiety and relationship conflict. As a social worker, I believe that seeing, hearing and serving those who are oppressed is crucial to addressing the injustices within our society. My practice with you will be respectful and non-judgmental as we all struggle at times, and it is critical to have a source of support with whom we feel safe and can be open.
Deborah Reeves
Licensed Professional Counselor, MGPP, BCPC, CGP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
My orientation is talk therapy that is psychodynamic from a supportive to an insight oriented approach.
People often come to see me when they sense that ways of thinking come with a resiliance that feels difficult and painful to change. They come to me when they are in pain and struggling. My approach is empathic, culturally sensitive and non-judgemental. Emotional healing is a collaborative process and committed work that is radically individualized and fully confidential. I work with people who have not been in therapy before and with people who sense a need for deeper understanding with enduring change.
My orientation is talk therapy that is psychodynamic from a supportive to an insight oriented approach.
People often come to see me when they sense that ways of thinking come with a resiliance that feels difficult and painful to change. They come to me when they are in pain and struggling. My approach is empathic, culturally sensitive and non-judgemental. Emotional healing is a collaborative process and committed work that is radically individualized and fully confidential. I work with people who have not been in therapy before and with people who sense a need for deeper understanding with enduring change.
Daniel Glaubinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19122
My training and experience as a therapist has centered on working with LGBTQIA+ adults, particularly trans and nonbinary people, using a relational and psychodynamic approach, from a feminist, trauma-informed, and social justice-oriented perspective.
Healing and growth happen in safe and supportive relationships, with boundaries built on trust and care. I am not a “blank slate” therapist and am honest about how my identity and experience as a parent and a white, fat, queer, trans person informs how I show up as a therapist and in relationship with clients. I value principles of harm reduction, anti-racism, and HAES (health at every size), am neurodivergent-affirming, sex work-affirming, and poly/kink-affirming. I don't believe that I have it all figured out and I will not tell you how to live your life, but hope to support you in figuring out how you would like to live it.
My training and experience as a therapist has centered on working with LGBTQIA+ adults, particularly trans and nonbinary people, using a relational and psychodynamic approach, from a feminist, trauma-informed, and social justice-oriented perspective.
Healing and growth happen in safe and supportive relationships, with boundaries built on trust and care. I am not a “blank slate” therapist and am honest about how my identity and experience as a parent and a white, fat, queer, trans person informs how I show up as a therapist and in relationship with clients. I value principles of harm reduction, anti-racism, and HAES (health at every size), am neurodivergent-affirming, sex work-affirming, and poly/kink-affirming. I don't believe that I have it all figured out and I will not tell you how to live your life, but hope to support you in figuring out how you would like to live it.
Adriane Esposito
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
Do you struggle with feeling guilt, overwhelmed, lack purpose, are ready to meet everyone else's needs and then neglect your own? I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, compassion, warmth and humor to promote psychological flexibility and resilience.
Do you struggle with feeling guilt, overwhelmed, lack purpose, are ready to meet everyone else's needs and then neglect your own? I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, compassion, warmth and humor to promote psychological flexibility and resilience.
Noel Shipp - Psychphilly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146
I utilize a psychodynamic and anti-oppressive approach in my practice that values the unique strengths and identities of each individual client.
The practice of therapy can mean different things to different people. Whether you are navigating a life change, hoping to address acute symptoms, or looking for more support, therapy can help you better understanding yourself. Through examining relationships and reflecting on past experiences, therapy can foster deeper insight into how to pursue a more fulfilled future.
I utilize a psychodynamic and anti-oppressive approach in my practice that values the unique strengths and identities of each individual client.
The practice of therapy can mean different things to different people. Whether you are navigating a life change, hoping to address acute symptoms, or looking for more support, therapy can help you better understanding yourself. Through examining relationships and reflecting on past experiences, therapy can foster deeper insight into how to pursue a more fulfilled future.
I specialize in contemporary psychodynamic psychotherapy and behavioral approaches.
Good therapeutic experiences are created through a balance of support and challenge in the context of a good therapeutic relationship. As a therapist, I try to create support by listening carefully, trying hard to understand, highlighting your strengths, validating your experiences, and celebrating your growth. I try to provide challenge by encouraging you to develop insight into your your situation, presenting concerns. thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and considering what, if anything, you want to change about these things.
I specialize in contemporary psychodynamic psychotherapy and behavioral approaches.
Good therapeutic experiences are created through a balance of support and challenge in the context of a good therapeutic relationship. As a therapist, I try to create support by listening carefully, trying hard to understand, highlighting your strengths, validating your experiences, and celebrating your growth. I try to provide challenge by encouraging you to develop insight into your your situation, presenting concerns. thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and considering what, if anything, you want to change about these things.
The psychodynamic approach helps me connect the client's current depression and anxiety to their childhood and parents' behaviors.
Have you had a car accident and lost everything, including your career and physical health? Did you have to undergo multiple surgeries to fix your body because of the accident? Are you becoming more and more depressed and easily angry at home? Does your family think you need some help? Have you struggled with a lot of anxiety & OCD since you were young? Do you want to make changes to yourself so your husband and daughters can love again? I use a person-centered approach to build rapport with clients. I provide psychoeducation about what depression & anxiety are and how therapy works to help reduce the unknown feelings.
The psychodynamic approach helps me connect the client's current depression and anxiety to their childhood and parents' behaviors.
Have you had a car accident and lost everything, including your career and physical health? Did you have to undergo multiple surgeries to fix your body because of the accident? Are you becoming more and more depressed and easily angry at home? Does your family think you need some help? Have you struggled with a lot of anxiety & OCD since you were young? Do you want to make changes to yourself so your husband and daughters can love again? I use a person-centered approach to build rapport with clients. I provide psychoeducation about what depression & anxiety are and how therapy works to help reduce the unknown feelings.
Margot Troutt Keys
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19106 (Online Only)
My work relies most heavily on Psychodynamic, Dialectical Behavioral, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies.
A wise man once told me, “Life is like a circle, at different points on the circumference we view the same core.” This reminded of therapy. How at different points on the circumference of our lives, different transitions, losses, relationship issues, or medical issues introduce themselves and we view how our core responds. Sometimes depression, anxiety, anger, and fear arise. We can continue to look away and ignore these responses that interfere with our goals, or we can decide we are going to work with a therapist. Together we embrace that core in ways that help and enrich each point on the circumference.
My work relies most heavily on Psychodynamic, Dialectical Behavioral, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies.
A wise man once told me, “Life is like a circle, at different points on the circumference we view the same core.” This reminded of therapy. How at different points on the circumference of our lives, different transitions, losses, relationship issues, or medical issues introduce themselves and we view how our core responds. Sometimes depression, anxiety, anger, and fear arise. We can continue to look away and ignore these responses that interfere with our goals, or we can decide we are going to work with a therapist. Together we embrace that core in ways that help and enrich each point on the circumference.
Tressa Dabney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
In my work, I pull from different models, including ACT, psychodynamic therapy, relational and attachment-based, and somatic approaches.
Therapy is one avenue to building a life that is more authentic, connected, and filled with meaning. My goal as a therapist is to co-create a space that is warm and safe where you can approach issues from a strengths-based lens, and where curiosity and creativity can flourish. As a therapist, I value my unique relationship with each client, and I am deeply grateful to be able to witness growth, meaning-making, and changes that positively impact a client’s life. Therapy is a unique, personal, and specific journey, and I am humbled and eager to be on that journey with each individual client with whom I work.
In my work, I pull from different models, including ACT, psychodynamic therapy, relational and attachment-based, and somatic approaches.
Therapy is one avenue to building a life that is more authentic, connected, and filled with meaning. My goal as a therapist is to co-create a space that is warm and safe where you can approach issues from a strengths-based lens, and where curiosity and creativity can flourish. As a therapist, I value my unique relationship with each client, and I am deeply grateful to be able to witness growth, meaning-making, and changes that positively impact a client’s life. Therapy is a unique, personal, and specific journey, and I am humbled and eager to be on that journey with each individual client with whom I work.
See more therapy options for Philadelphia
Nearby Psychodynamic Therapists Searches for Philadelphia
- Bala Cynwyd
- Cheltenham
- Elkins Park
- Lansdowne
- Manayunk
- Merion Station
- Mid City East
- Narberth
- Penn Valley
- Upper Darby
- Wyncote
- Wynnewood
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.