Psychodynamic Therapists in Barnwell County, SC

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Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in South Carolina below.

Online Therapists

Photo of Jenny R Bouknight, MSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenny R Bouknight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
West Columbia, SC 29169
Using Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral, Person Centered and Psychodynamic theories, I can help you plan a course to achieve your goals.
Feeling lost and overwhelmed by all the decisions and choices you are faced with daily can be stressful and exhausting, and stress can be magnified by the constant changes everyone experiences. These changes in relationships, your roles in school or workplace, family situations, and demands from others can all make you feel anxious, depressed...helpless. The isolation and loneliness we experienced during the pandemic did not evaporate when the crisis was contained, and now we are forced to cope new stressors. Depression, anxiety, increased substance use have been noted. But help & healing are available .
Using Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral, Person Centered and Psychodynamic theories, I can help you plan a course to achieve your goals.
Feeling lost and overwhelmed by all the decisions and choices you are faced with daily can be stressful and exhausting, and stress can be magnified by the constant changes everyone experiences. These changes in relationships, your roles in school or workplace, family situations, and demands from others can all make you feel anxious, depressed...helpless. The isolation and loneliness we experienced during the pandemic did not evaporate when the crisis was contained, and now we are forced to cope new stressors. Depression, anxiety, increased substance use have been noted. But help & healing are available .
(803) 573-9829 View (803) 573-9829
Photo of Elizabeth Zsolnay, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Zsolnay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Daniel Island, SC 29492
Sometimes we find ourselves exhausted, stuck, or overwhelmed. Whether my patients are dealing with a new stress or a long history of battling depression or PTSD, I am committed to providing a space of acceptance, respect and self-exploration to support clients in addressing their challenges and creating meaningful and fulfilling lives. My specialty is in using a unique approach (Psychodynamic or Psychoanalytic Therapy) to help people process their emotions and find ways to feel less stuck and find more joy.
Sometimes we find ourselves exhausted, stuck, or overwhelmed. Whether my patients are dealing with a new stress or a long history of battling depression or PTSD, I am committed to providing a space of acceptance, respect and self-exploration to support clients in addressing their challenges and creating meaningful and fulfilling lives. My specialty is in using a unique approach (Psychodynamic or Psychoanalytic Therapy) to help people process their emotions and find ways to feel less stuck and find more joy.
(843) 326-0197 View (843) 326-0197
Photo of Cathy Cooper, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cathy Cooper
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201
I use client-centered, cognitive-behavioral, systems and psychodynamic theories of counseling in my work with all clients.
I have thirty years of experience working with children and adolescents as well as ten years of experience working with adults. My specialties include grief, anxiety, depression, divorce, relationship issues, parenting, and school-related issues. I believe play is the natural medium of communication and work with young children age eight and older. I was previously registered as a play and music therapist. I am very open, authentic, calm and optimistic in all of my work. I am present and accepting of what is brought into the counseling room; I create a safe space for all.
I use client-centered, cognitive-behavioral, systems and psychodynamic theories of counseling in my work with all clients.
I have thirty years of experience working with children and adolescents as well as ten years of experience working with adults. My specialties include grief, anxiety, depression, divorce, relationship issues, parenting, and school-related issues. I believe play is the natural medium of communication and work with young children age eight and older. I was previously registered as a play and music therapist. I am very open, authentic, calm and optimistic in all of my work. I am present and accepting of what is brought into the counseling room; I create a safe space for all.
(803) 590-9941 View (803) 590-9941
Photo of Alexa Williams, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexa Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Summerville, SC 29483  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Alexa Williams. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina. I have worked in private counseling with clients from various diverse backgrounds and life circumstances for the past 7 years. I have an eclectic approach to therapy. Integrating various therapy modalities, including Psychodynamic, Existential, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I work with individuals from the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color) communities.
Hi! My name is Alexa Williams. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina. I have worked in private counseling with clients from various diverse backgrounds and life circumstances for the past 7 years. I have an eclectic approach to therapy. Integrating various therapy modalities, including Psychodynamic, Existential, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I work with individuals from the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color) communities.
(854) 400-9916 View (854) 400-9916
Photo of Nick Bagnell, PsyD, Psychologist
Nick Bagnell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201
I have an eclectic approach that utilizes psychological interventions supported by research, specifically EMDR, DBT, CBT, as well as Psychodynamic perspectives.
It is often that when you have difficulties managing your emotions, they have a negative impact on your closest relationships. My goal is to support understanding of where these symptoms originate and how we can work to manage them. I specialize in working with people who have difficulties with their mood, relationships, and having the life they want. I also have expertise in conducting psychological assessment for diagnostic for school accommodations, by assessing for learning disorders and ADHD, as well as for diagnostic clarification and treatment recommendations.
I have an eclectic approach that utilizes psychological interventions supported by research, specifically EMDR, DBT, CBT, as well as Psychodynamic perspectives.
It is often that when you have difficulties managing your emotions, they have a negative impact on your closest relationships. My goal is to support understanding of where these symptoms originate and how we can work to manage them. I specialize in working with people who have difficulties with their mood, relationships, and having the life they want. I also have expertise in conducting psychological assessment for diagnostic for school accommodations, by assessing for learning disorders and ADHD, as well as for diagnostic clarification and treatment recommendations.
(803) 708-7472 View (803) 708-7472
Photo of Alexa Williams, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexa Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
North Charleston, SC 29420  (Online Only)
Integrating various therapy modalities, including Psychodynamic, Existential, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Welcome! I am Alexa Williams from Essence of Balance Counseling. I provide telehealth therapy in the states of South Carolina, Florida, and Delaware. I have worked with clients from various diverse backgrounds and life circumstances in my career for the past 8 years. I primarily work with individuals and couples from the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color) communities. Providing services for individual, pre-marital, and couples therapy. I am a LGBTQ+ affirming provider. You will go through the therapy process feeling rejuvenated and heard!
Integrating various therapy modalities, including Psychodynamic, Existential, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Welcome! I am Alexa Williams from Essence of Balance Counseling. I provide telehealth therapy in the states of South Carolina, Florida, and Delaware. I have worked with clients from various diverse backgrounds and life circumstances in my career for the past 8 years. I primarily work with individuals and couples from the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color) communities. Providing services for individual, pre-marital, and couples therapy. I am a LGBTQ+ affirming provider. You will go through the therapy process feeling rejuvenated and heard!
(843) 994-7389 View (843) 994-7389
Photo of Muma Azeh, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Muma Azeh
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Okatie, SC 29909  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I specialize in diverse approaches like cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, & humanistic therapy.
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
As a therapist, I specialize in diverse approaches like cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, & humanistic therapy.
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
(843) 938-2758 View (843) 938-2758
Photo of Carlton A Andrews, MRC, LPC, NCAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carlton A Andrews
Licensed Professional Counselor, MRC, LPC, NCAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29206
Therapy has the potential to be tremendously helpful. I have over 25 years of experience working in the counseling field. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as an NCAC. Through my career, I have primarily focused on all types of addictions as well as worked with couples and others seeking to change habits and personality traits that hinder their happiness. I will help to recognize, face, and overcome the stuck points often felt when having personal difficulties. I use varied counseling methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic therapy and mindfulness.
Therapy has the potential to be tremendously helpful. I have over 25 years of experience working in the counseling field. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as an NCAC. Through my career, I have primarily focused on all types of addictions as well as worked with couples and others seeking to change habits and personality traits that hinder their happiness. I will help to recognize, face, and overcome the stuck points often felt when having personal difficulties. I use varied counseling methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic therapy and mindfulness.
(803) 302-3907 View (803) 302-3907
Photo of James Jefferson, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James Jefferson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29210
He utilizes multiple treatment approaches including psychoeducation, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy.
James Jefferson is a Licensed Independent Social Worker-Clinical Practice and Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor-In Process. Since 2012, he has provided mental health services to individuals in need. He enjoys working with adults of all ages, including those that are medically vulnerable. James specializes in depression, anxiety, mindfulness, stress, cultural problems, and communication. He has experience providing different services, gaining knowledge to better address intersectionality, and providing resources.
He utilizes multiple treatment approaches including psychoeducation, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy.
James Jefferson is a Licensed Independent Social Worker-Clinical Practice and Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor-In Process. Since 2012, he has provided mental health services to individuals in need. He enjoys working with adults of all ages, including those that are medically vulnerable. James specializes in depression, anxiety, mindfulness, stress, cultural problems, and communication. He has experience providing different services, gaining knowledge to better address intersectionality, and providing resources.
(803) 918-5625 View (803) 918-5625
Photo of Kimberly Ann Sloan, PhD, Psychologist
Kimberly Ann Sloan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
I treat a broad spectrum of problems including: Anxiety & Depression, Grief & Relationship Issues, Family and Child Conflicts, ADD/ADHD, as well as trauma related symptoms. I often use psychological testing to facilitate diagnosis and personality description. I offer supportive and practical intervention using a variety of therapeutic techniques, including mindfulness, cognitive & psychodynamic approaches tailored to your strengths and individual needs. The goals are symptom reduction, personal growth, as well as discovering joy and wellness in your life.
I treat a broad spectrum of problems including: Anxiety & Depression, Grief & Relationship Issues, Family and Child Conflicts, ADD/ADHD, as well as trauma related symptoms. I often use psychological testing to facilitate diagnosis and personality description. I offer supportive and practical intervention using a variety of therapeutic techniques, including mindfulness, cognitive & psychodynamic approaches tailored to your strengths and individual needs. The goals are symptom reduction, personal growth, as well as discovering joy and wellness in your life.
(843) 890-8026 View (843) 890-8026
Photo of Brittany Buckelew, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittany Buckelew
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Charleston, SC 29401  (Online Only)
I offer an integrative approach incorporating humanistic, psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral theories.
Does it feel like you have outgrown who you used to be? Are you feeling stuck in your thoughts, behaviors or patterns? Do you feel hopeless, lonely, or lost? Are you seeking to know yourself better and live a happier & more fulfilling life? Therapy is a powerful place to explore new ways of understanding ourselves, how we show up in the world and how we relate to ourselves and those around us -- it is a space to pause, focus inward and explore our internal world.
I offer an integrative approach incorporating humanistic, psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral theories.
Does it feel like you have outgrown who you used to be? Are you feeling stuck in your thoughts, behaviors or patterns? Do you feel hopeless, lonely, or lost? Are you seeking to know yourself better and live a happier & more fulfilling life? Therapy is a powerful place to explore new ways of understanding ourselves, how we show up in the world and how we relate to ourselves and those around us -- it is a space to pause, focus inward and explore our internal world.
(678) 672-3968 View (678) 672-3968
Photo of Lk Woodall, LPC-A
Lk Woodall
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29202  (Online Only)
As a therapist with expertise in psychodynamic and positive psychology, I'm here to guide you through anxiety, depression, and life transitions with empathy and tailored support.
Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate in South Carolina. I bring a unique blend of expertise and empathy to the field of mental health. With specialized training in psychodynamic and positive psychology, my practice focuses on guiding individuals through their personal journeys toward healing and growth. My passion lies in working with clients who are navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, and significant life transitions.
As a therapist with expertise in psychodynamic and positive psychology, I'm here to guide you through anxiety, depression, and life transitions with empathy and tailored support.
Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate in South Carolina. I bring a unique blend of expertise and empathy to the field of mental health. With specialized training in psychodynamic and positive psychology, my practice focuses on guiding individuals through their personal journeys toward healing and growth. My passion lies in working with clients who are navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, and significant life transitions.
(803) 866-4403 View (803) 866-4403
Photo of Kindra Louise Westercamp, PhD, Psychologist
Kindra Louise Westercamp
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29407
My approach to treatment is integrative, but largely involves cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic techniques.
Life is a journey that is often fraught with painful or trying times. Perhaps you are presently attempting to navigate through one of these periods and have found that despite your best efforts you remain stuck. I find meaning and purpose in my work as a therapist and strive to help my clients enliven their potential and live a life that they value. I aspire to create an environment that will allow my clients to gain greater understanding/clarity, acceptance, courage, hope, balance, and serenity.
My approach to treatment is integrative, but largely involves cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic techniques.
Life is a journey that is often fraught with painful or trying times. Perhaps you are presently attempting to navigate through one of these periods and have found that despite your best efforts you remain stuck. I find meaning and purpose in my work as a therapist and strive to help my clients enliven their potential and live a life that they value. I aspire to create an environment that will allow my clients to gain greater understanding/clarity, acceptance, courage, hope, balance, and serenity.
(864) 339-9172 View (864) 339-9172
Photo of Hevylla Terlau, MA, LMSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hevylla Terlau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LMSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Ridgeland, SC 29936  (Online Only)
Hello, I am Hevylla Terlau, soon to be a Doctor of Clinical Psychology, with a rich background in psychology and clinical social work. I am not your typical therapist. In our sessions, expect to be engaged actively—I'm here to interact, challenge, and support you as you uncover and strengthen your inner capacities. My approach blends CBT, psychodynamic principles, and interpersonal techniques tailored to foster goal-oriented progress and deep, insightful personal growth.
Hello, I am Hevylla Terlau, soon to be a Doctor of Clinical Psychology, with a rich background in psychology and clinical social work. I am not your typical therapist. In our sessions, expect to be engaged actively—I'm here to interact, challenge, and support you as you uncover and strengthen your inner capacities. My approach blends CBT, psychodynamic principles, and interpersonal techniques tailored to foster goal-oriented progress and deep, insightful personal growth.
(843) 258-5192 View (843) 258-5192
Photo of Michele D. Briones, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Michele D. Briones
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464  (Online Only)
My counseling approaches are client-centered, cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, EMDR and psychodynamic.
My goal is to provide a safe and inviting environment for individuals, couples and families to work on changing dysfunctional patterns that interfere with relationships and general life satisfaction. I enjoy helping people find happiness and success in their lives by meeting them emotionally where they are and collaborating to create the life they desire. The best gift you can give yourself is a better understanding of who you are and how you want to create a genuine and authentic existence. My style is one of warmth and empathy with therapeutic interventions to help you attain your treatment goals.
My counseling approaches are client-centered, cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, EMDR and psychodynamic.
My goal is to provide a safe and inviting environment for individuals, couples and families to work on changing dysfunctional patterns that interfere with relationships and general life satisfaction. I enjoy helping people find happiness and success in their lives by meeting them emotionally where they are and collaborating to create the life they desire. The best gift you can give yourself is a better understanding of who you are and how you want to create a genuine and authentic existence. My style is one of warmth and empathy with therapeutic interventions to help you attain your treatment goals.
(331) 979-3003 View (331) 979-3003
Photo of Samantha Jean Wedderburn, MA, EdM, LMHC, Counselor
Samantha Jean Wedderburn
Counselor, MA, EdM, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Moncks Corner, SC 29461  (Online Only)
Samantha is a psychotherapist. Samantha integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with components of mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy into her counseling. Samantha completed her graduate school degrees at Columbia University.
Samantha is a psychotherapist. Samantha integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with components of mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy into her counseling. Samantha completed her graduate school degrees at Columbia University.
(631) 857-3952 View (631) 857-3952
Photo of Jeffrey G. Nigro, MSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeffrey G. Nigro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29405
Our work together is about maximizing your potential by identifying & growing your skills, strengths, adaptive traits & tailoring the work to your individual needs. Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral & other psychodynamic tools & techniques, my individual-centered, relationship-building approach has had positive outcomes with a wide spectrum of people who seek assistance with a variety of challenges. My approach values the insights you have & utilizes these to help you move into active change in the present. Our relationship, uncovering & implementing new skills, building trust and communication are the keys to your success.
Our work together is about maximizing your potential by identifying & growing your skills, strengths, adaptive traits & tailoring the work to your individual needs. Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral & other psychodynamic tools & techniques, my individual-centered, relationship-building approach has had positive outcomes with a wide spectrum of people who seek assistance with a variety of challenges. My approach values the insights you have & utilizes these to help you move into active change in the present. Our relationship, uncovering & implementing new skills, building trust and communication are the keys to your success.
(843) 380-4454 View (843) 380-4454
Photo of Dr. Robert Lewis Bozard, PhD, MDiv, LCMHC, LPC, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Robert Lewis Bozard
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MDiv, LCMHC, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29205
Welcome. Helping Men and Couples is my special focus. I offer Doctoral-level therapy for Anxiety, Relationships, Sexual Issues, Depression, Social Anxiety, Porn-Sexual-Gaming Addictions, College/Young Adults, Motivation/Focus, Assertiveness, Anger, Pee-Shyness Anxiety and more. I founded this practice to help men get the help they need. Some issues look different in men and need a different approach. Helping men be better helps relationships be better. With 17 years of experience, I draw from CBT, Reality/Choice, and Psychodynamic theories, and am a Level 1 Gottman Method couples therapist.
Welcome. Helping Men and Couples is my special focus. I offer Doctoral-level therapy for Anxiety, Relationships, Sexual Issues, Depression, Social Anxiety, Porn-Sexual-Gaming Addictions, College/Young Adults, Motivation/Focus, Assertiveness, Anger, Pee-Shyness Anxiety and more. I founded this practice to help men get the help they need. Some issues look different in men and need a different approach. Helping men be better helps relationships be better. With 17 years of experience, I draw from CBT, Reality/Choice, and Psychodynamic theories, and am a Level 1 Gottman Method couples therapist.
(803) 598-1167 View (803) 598-1167
Photo of Marina Garofano, MSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marina Garofano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Daniel Island, SC 29492
Through a specialized approach (psychoanalytic/psychodynamic therapy) as well as experience with utilizing a variety of counseling styles, I help each client process their emotions and find ways to better connect with themselves and those around them in ways that are unique to who they are.
My passion is in helping Children, Adolescents, Adults, and Families who feel stuck, overwhelmed, and/or unsure of how to work through the challenges they are facing. Each age group requires a different way to connect and build trust. Everyone has pain and deserves a space to be seen, understood, and supported (even the little ones!). I specialize in helping clients of all ages work through trauma, anxiety, depression, identity exploration, attention and behavioral concerns, attachment issues, and mood dysregulation (ie ups and downs).
Through a specialized approach (psychoanalytic/psychodynamic therapy) as well as experience with utilizing a variety of counseling styles, I help each client process their emotions and find ways to better connect with themselves and those around them in ways that are unique to who they are.
My passion is in helping Children, Adolescents, Adults, and Families who feel stuck, overwhelmed, and/or unsure of how to work through the challenges they are facing. Each age group requires a different way to connect and build trust. Everyone has pain and deserves a space to be seen, understood, and supported (even the little ones!). I specialize in helping clients of all ages work through trauma, anxiety, depression, identity exploration, attention and behavioral concerns, attachment issues, and mood dysregulation (ie ups and downs).
(843) 396-5214 View (843) 396-5214
Photo of Andrea Axelson - Andrea Axelson, MS, LPC, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea Axelson, MS, LPC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
I am trained in Psychodynamic, EMDR, Sensory Motor, and CBT techniques.
I graduated from the University of Alaska, Anchorage with a Masters in Science, Clinical Psychology and have over 20 years experience working with individuals who have experienced Family Violence, Child Abuse: Physical, Emotional, and Sexual Abuse, as well as Depression, PTSD, Relational Conflict, Low Self-Esteem, Grief, Adjustment, and Anxiety. Additional experience in working with the forensic population, as well as severely mentally ill; Bipolar, Schizophrenia, and Severe Depression. My approach is eclectic, tailoring treatment to the individual and their needs.
I am trained in Psychodynamic, EMDR, Sensory Motor, and CBT techniques.
I graduated from the University of Alaska, Anchorage with a Masters in Science, Clinical Psychology and have over 20 years experience working with individuals who have experienced Family Violence, Child Abuse: Physical, Emotional, and Sexual Abuse, as well as Depression, PTSD, Relational Conflict, Low Self-Esteem, Grief, Adjustment, and Anxiety. Additional experience in working with the forensic population, as well as severely mentally ill; Bipolar, Schizophrenia, and Severe Depression. My approach is eclectic, tailoring treatment to the individual and their needs.
(843) 630-6721 View (843) 630-6721
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.