Psychodynamic Therapists in McKinney, TX

Photo of Emily Hammock, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emily Hammock
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
Are you feeling overwhelmed or disconnected as you navigate the many demands of life? Whether you are adjusting to motherhood, balancing relationships, or just struggling to feel like yourself, you are not alone. I specialize in supporting women through life’s unique challenges, offering a safe, empathetic space where you can reconnect with your inner strength. Using a psychodynamic and humanistic approach, we’ll explore how past experiences shape your current feelings and patterns, empowering you to create meaningful change. Together, we’ll work toward healing, balance, and a renewed sense of self on your journey forward.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or disconnected as you navigate the many demands of life? Whether you are adjusting to motherhood, balancing relationships, or just struggling to feel like yourself, you are not alone. I specialize in supporting women through life’s unique challenges, offering a safe, empathetic space where you can reconnect with your inner strength. Using a psychodynamic and humanistic approach, we’ll explore how past experiences shape your current feelings and patterns, empowering you to create meaningful change. Together, we’ll work toward healing, balance, and a renewed sense of self on your journey forward.
(469) 829-2491 View (469) 829-2491
Photo of Christina Alanis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Alanis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Hi, I'm Christina and I believe that seeking help is a great first step toward making positive changes in your life. I am here to walk along side you, empower you, and collaboratively develop treatment plans and goals tailored specifically for you. Modalities I often use in my practice include, but are not limited to: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic, Compassion Focused, and Solution Focused. I provide a safe and supportive environment and truly want to listen to what you have to say. I am here to listen with compassion, empathy, and without judgement.
Hi, I'm Christina and I believe that seeking help is a great first step toward making positive changes in your life. I am here to walk along side you, empower you, and collaboratively develop treatment plans and goals tailored specifically for you. Modalities I often use in my practice include, but are not limited to: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic, Compassion Focused, and Solution Focused. I provide a safe and supportive environment and truly want to listen to what you have to say. I am here to listen with compassion, empathy, and without judgement.
(806) 450-5337 View (806) 450-5337
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry McKinney
Counselor
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(855) 524-5193 View (855) 524-5193
Photo of Meredith Kriz, MA, MDiv, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meredith Kriz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MDiv, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
I am certified in dialectical behavior (DBT), and have training in psychodynamic, and cognitive behavioral (CBT) modalities to help us reach your goals.
No matter what your struggles may be, my goal is to meet you where you are, help identify your strengths and build on those as we work toward the change you desire. My clients feel heard, and they are equipped with tools to find balance in their daily lives. Whether people come because they are depressed or overwhelmed with anxiety, their marriage is in trouble or they want to strengthen a strong relationship, my goal is the same: we manage immediate challenges while developing a plan to confront the deeper issues that prevent them from leading a balanced life.
I am certified in dialectical behavior (DBT), and have training in psychodynamic, and cognitive behavioral (CBT) modalities to help us reach your goals.
No matter what your struggles may be, my goal is to meet you where you are, help identify your strengths and build on those as we work toward the change you desire. My clients feel heard, and they are equipped with tools to find balance in their daily lives. Whether people come because they are depressed or overwhelmed with anxiety, their marriage is in trouble or they want to strengthen a strong relationship, my goal is the same: we manage immediate challenges while developing a plan to confront the deeper issues that prevent them from leading a balanced life.
(469) 518-7249 View (469) 518-7249
Photo of DeeDee Shoubaki, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
DeeDee Shoubaki
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
I tend to focus on Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), humanistic therapy, and psychodynamic therapy.
Hello, my name is Delelah, but you can call me DeeDee. I have spent my career working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I enjoy working with those who struggle with anger, anxiety, self-esteem, depression, and trauma. My goal is to help others in creating their own sense of healthy emotional expression, improve communication skills, strengthen conflict management, and to empower clients to create the best version of themselves and build the life they want.
I tend to focus on Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), humanistic therapy, and psychodynamic therapy.
Hello, my name is Delelah, but you can call me DeeDee. I have spent my career working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I enjoy working with those who struggle with anger, anxiety, self-esteem, depression, and trauma. My goal is to help others in creating their own sense of healthy emotional expression, improve communication skills, strengthen conflict management, and to empower clients to create the best version of themselves and build the life they want.
(214) 949-8303 View (214) 949-8303
Photo of Catherine Bolotte, MEd
Catherine Bolotte
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
I primarily operate from a person-centered perspective and also utilize a variety of modalities to best fit each client's needs, such as DBT, psychodynamic therapy, and attachment theory.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in the state of Texas supervised by Heidi Johanson LPC-S. I have a Masters in Counseling Education from the University of New Orleans. In my counseling experience, I have had the opportunity to work with adolescents and adults struggling with complex trauma and PTSD, domestic violence, bipolar disorder, ADHD, gender/sexual identity, and depression. I am also trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD, phobias, and severe anxiety, as well as Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) which is highly effective in treating trauma and PTSD.
I primarily operate from a person-centered perspective and also utilize a variety of modalities to best fit each client's needs, such as DBT, psychodynamic therapy, and attachment theory.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in the state of Texas supervised by Heidi Johanson LPC-S. I have a Masters in Counseling Education from the University of New Orleans. In my counseling experience, I have had the opportunity to work with adolescents and adults struggling with complex trauma and PTSD, domestic violence, bipolar disorder, ADHD, gender/sexual identity, and depression. I am also trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD, phobias, and severe anxiety, as well as Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) which is highly effective in treating trauma and PTSD.
(817) 241-5894 View (817) 241-5894
Photo of Rebecca Houser - Blank Slate Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor
Blank Slate Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
We practice only evidence based modalities including CBT (cognitive behavior therapy), DBT, EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention), ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), Psychodynamic Therapy, hypnosis, music therapy, sandtray therapy, and more.
We have the right therapist to meet your unique needs. With 35 licensed psychotherapists and four North Dallas locations, we specialize in changing lives. Offering a range of clinical services such as play therapy, adolescent therapy, individual adult counseling, couples therapy, family therapy, psychological testing and Teen DBT Group. Our clinicians are experts in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, addictions, trauma, OCD, grief, needs of gifted and talented, relationship concerns, self-harm, anger, guilt, divorce, identity concerns, perfectionism, behavior concerns, parenting, LGBTQIA+ concerns and more.
We practice only evidence based modalities including CBT (cognitive behavior therapy), DBT, EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention), ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), Psychodynamic Therapy, hypnosis, music therapy, sandtray therapy, and more.
We have the right therapist to meet your unique needs. With 35 licensed psychotherapists and four North Dallas locations, we specialize in changing lives. Offering a range of clinical services such as play therapy, adolescent therapy, individual adult counseling, couples therapy, family therapy, psychological testing and Teen DBT Group. Our clinicians are experts in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, addictions, trauma, OCD, grief, needs of gifted and talented, relationship concerns, self-harm, anger, guilt, divorce, identity concerns, perfectionism, behavior concerns, parenting, LGBTQIA+ concerns and more.
(469) 632-8213 View (469) 632-8213
Photo of Donielle Jenkins, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Donielle Jenkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
Traditionally, I pull from cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, and humanistic therapies.
Video Teletherapy + In Person and Weekend Appointments available to meet your needs! There are times in our lives when it's helpful to speak with someone objective and who will listen with an empathetic ear. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with eighteen years of diverse clinical experience. My practice is in Frisco and consists of individual, teens, adults, and couples therapy. I provide a safe and confidential place to explore my clients strengths and support them in gaining a more positive life experience. Life changes can be stressful for all of us, however you don't have to move through it alone. Let me walk with you
Traditionally, I pull from cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, and humanistic therapies.
Video Teletherapy + In Person and Weekend Appointments available to meet your needs! There are times in our lives when it's helpful to speak with someone objective and who will listen with an empathetic ear. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with eighteen years of diverse clinical experience. My practice is in Frisco and consists of individual, teens, adults, and couples therapy. I provide a safe and confidential place to explore my clients strengths and support them in gaining a more positive life experience. Life changes can be stressful for all of us, however you don't have to move through it alone. Let me walk with you
(214) 444-6083 View (214) 444-6083
Photo of Brian Hindert, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brian Hindert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
I take an eclectic approach combining cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, rational-emotive therapy, emdr, and IFS.
Courage and willingness are required to create a more fulfilling and joyful life. If you are suffering from stress, anxiety, family issues, or maybe an addiction and you are ready to find a different way to live, I am here to support and empower you. Generally people do not understand what is happening within themselves so I am here to help you find the root of your troubles and take the appropriate actions to heal and live a better life.
I take an eclectic approach combining cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, rational-emotive therapy, emdr, and IFS.
Courage and willingness are required to create a more fulfilling and joyful life. If you are suffering from stress, anxiety, family issues, or maybe an addiction and you are ready to find a different way to live, I am here to support and empower you. Generally people do not understand what is happening within themselves so I am here to help you find the root of your troubles and take the appropriate actions to heal and live a better life.
(830) 468-7775 View (830) 468-7775
Photo of Bradford J White, PhD, Psychologist
Bradford J White
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
Waitlist for new clients
I integrate behavioral and psychodynamic principles to illuminate the meaning behind symptoms and elicit growth. It takes two minds to think - so together we'll do that. Compassionately, thoughtfully, playfully. We'll look deeply underneath and beyond what's troubling you, and search together for a more meaningful and engaging way of living. And laugh a little along the way.
I integrate behavioral and psychodynamic principles to illuminate the meaning behind symptoms and elicit growth. It takes two minds to think - so together we'll do that. Compassionately, thoughtfully, playfully. We'll look deeply underneath and beyond what's troubling you, and search together for a more meaningful and engaging way of living. And laugh a little along the way.
(214) 380-2146 View (214) 380-2146
Photo of Bethany Sanders, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bethany Sanders
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
My framework for practice comes from a relational and psychodynamic lens, allowing us to discuss the current burdens or challenges you face, while also looking at how our past impacts us currently.
I am passionate in my work with both individuals and couples. I focus on being with you in the current struggles you face, and taking a deeper look as to why they are occurring, whether internal or in relationships with others. Some areas I enjoy working with include perfectionism, grief, and anxiety. In my work with couples, we will work on both short term improvements to patterns such as communication and how you respond to one another, as well as taking a deeper look at who each of you are and why you may react differently. My goal is to help you both better enjoy your relationship while strengthening it for the long run.
My framework for practice comes from a relational and psychodynamic lens, allowing us to discuss the current burdens or challenges you face, while also looking at how our past impacts us currently.
I am passionate in my work with both individuals and couples. I focus on being with you in the current struggles you face, and taking a deeper look as to why they are occurring, whether internal or in relationships with others. Some areas I enjoy working with include perfectionism, grief, and anxiety. In my work with couples, we will work on both short term improvements to patterns such as communication and how you respond to one another, as well as taking a deeper look at who each of you are and why you may react differently. My goal is to help you both better enjoy your relationship while strengthening it for the long run.
(972) 734-1142 View (972) 734-1142
Photo of Lesley Riley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lesley Riley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
My name is Lesley Riley, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 25 years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in treating adolescents, adults, and seniors who are dealing with issues such as family conflict, divorce, career challenges, mental stress, life transitions, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and grief. I offer counseling to individuals and couples who are struggling to manage their emotions and advocate for themselves. My goal is to provide a non-judgmental space where you can explore and discover the best path toward healing and growth.
My name is Lesley Riley, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 25 years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in treating adolescents, adults, and seniors who are dealing with issues such as family conflict, divorce, career challenges, mental stress, life transitions, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and grief. I offer counseling to individuals and couples who are struggling to manage their emotions and advocate for themselves. My goal is to provide a non-judgmental space where you can explore and discover the best path toward healing and growth.
(855) 303-0225 View (855) 303-0225
Photo of Becki Hein, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Becki Hein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
Does fear run your life? Do you plan around the possibility of another panic attack? Anxiety issues steal your peace of mind and self-esteem. The good news is, you can take them back! You CAN learn to control your anxious reactions! According to NIMH, more than 90% of people with an anxiety disorder will make a good recovery if given appropriate treatment. I use a combination of relaxation and body awareness training and cognitive-behavioral interventions when teaching people to get their anxiety under control.
Does fear run your life? Do you plan around the possibility of another panic attack? Anxiety issues steal your peace of mind and self-esteem. The good news is, you can take them back! You CAN learn to control your anxious reactions! According to NIMH, more than 90% of people with an anxiety disorder will make a good recovery if given appropriate treatment. I use a combination of relaxation and body awareness training and cognitive-behavioral interventions when teaching people to get their anxiety under control.
(972) 316-9897 View (972) 316-9897
Photo of Blaine Stephens, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Blaine Stephens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
I am Blaine Stephens, a Licensed Professional Counselor, Nationally Certified Counselor, and Marriage and Family Therapist (LPC, NCC, MFT) with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. I am passionate about helping individuals, families, and couples realize their full potential and live more fulfilled lives. I specialize in marital therapy, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
I am Blaine Stephens, a Licensed Professional Counselor, Nationally Certified Counselor, and Marriage and Family Therapist (LPC, NCC, MFT) with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. I am passionate about helping individuals, families, and couples realize their full potential and live more fulfilled lives. I specialize in marital therapy, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
(469) 306-1698 View (469) 306-1698
Photo of Kelly R. Thompson, MA
Kelly R. Thompson
LPC Associate, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
As a biracial Black clinician, I see people from a variety of backgrounds but predominately help Christian women of color heal from family wounds and social trauma by creating a safe space that allows you to be your genuine self while feeling heard and validated. Are you frustrated with your relationships (out-of-control children, conflict with your spouse)? Is the chaos you are experiencing negatively affecting other areas in your life? Have you gained professional success but feel like you are living a lie or sometimes a nightmare behind closed doors? Perhaps you see painful family patterns from the past creeping into the present.
As a biracial Black clinician, I see people from a variety of backgrounds but predominately help Christian women of color heal from family wounds and social trauma by creating a safe space that allows you to be your genuine self while feeling heard and validated. Are you frustrated with your relationships (out-of-control children, conflict with your spouse)? Is the chaos you are experiencing negatively affecting other areas in your life? Have you gained professional success but feel like you are living a lie or sometimes a nightmare behind closed doors? Perhaps you see painful family patterns from the past creeping into the present.
(214) 833-0832 View (214) 833-0832
Photo of Jessica Pirzadeh, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Pirzadeh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
I believe that our past experiences shape how we think about things. If we heal old wounds, we improve our chances to feel more successful in all areas of life. I believe the ability to learn is a necessary tool for all individuals to maintain throughout life; whether you are a student in school or the CEO of a global corporation, it is essential to continue learning about yourself. When we have a solid understanding of why we think, act, and feel the way we do, then we set ourselves up to improve our relationships, especially the one with ourselves.
I believe that our past experiences shape how we think about things. If we heal old wounds, we improve our chances to feel more successful in all areas of life. I believe the ability to learn is a necessary tool for all individuals to maintain throughout life; whether you are a student in school or the CEO of a global corporation, it is essential to continue learning about yourself. When we have a solid understanding of why we think, act, and feel the way we do, then we set ourselves up to improve our relationships, especially the one with ourselves.
(972) 829-0936 View (972) 829-0936
Photo of Brandy Porche, LPC, MA, CAMS-I, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brandy Porche
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, CAMS-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
Licensed in Texas and Illinois. As we navigate our unique journey in life, sometimes additional support is needed along the way. My interactions with clients are grounded in compassion, respect, empathy, and an understanding of cultural impacts. My role as a therapist is to help educate and empower clients so that they develop the insight and skills necessary to overcome their own personal and situational challenges. Examining the core of your presenting symptoms can be challenging but you are worth the life changing experience. I work with couples, families, & individuals including adults and adolescents ages 14+.
Licensed in Texas and Illinois. As we navigate our unique journey in life, sometimes additional support is needed along the way. My interactions with clients are grounded in compassion, respect, empathy, and an understanding of cultural impacts. My role as a therapist is to help educate and empower clients so that they develop the insight and skills necessary to overcome their own personal and situational challenges. Examining the core of your presenting symptoms can be challenging but you are worth the life changing experience. I work with couples, families, & individuals including adults and adolescents ages 14+.
(469) 436-9298 View (469) 436-9298
Photo of Deborah Muse, MA, LPC, LMFT, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deborah Muse
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Hello and welcome! I’m Deborah Muse, a licensed professional counselor & marriage family therapist with over 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples & families to overcome life’s challenges & achieve meaningful growth. My mission is to provide a safe & supportive space, a listening ear, and a non-judgmental heart for individuals to share struggles, explore feelings and receive the support & guidance they need to gain insight & find solutions to their problems & create a healthier & happier life. Feeling heard and understood is powerful in the healing process & I'm honored to walk alongside others in this process.
Hello and welcome! I’m Deborah Muse, a licensed professional counselor & marriage family therapist with over 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples & families to overcome life’s challenges & achieve meaningful growth. My mission is to provide a safe & supportive space, a listening ear, and a non-judgmental heart for individuals to share struggles, explore feelings and receive the support & guidance they need to gain insight & find solutions to their problems & create a healthier & happier life. Feeling heard and understood is powerful in the healing process & I'm honored to walk alongside others in this process.
(469) 618-8838 View (469) 618-8838
Photo of Elina Kharmats, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elina Kharmats
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
I understand that your perception is your reality. My name is Elina Kharmats, and I have more than a decade of experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor working with individuals, couples, and families. I practice integrative therapy, which combines elements from different therapeutic modalities, and personalize the treatment according to the needs of each client. Some of these approaches include person centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems therapy, and gestalt therapy, among others.
I understand that your perception is your reality. My name is Elina Kharmats, and I have more than a decade of experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor working with individuals, couples, and families. I practice integrative therapy, which combines elements from different therapeutic modalities, and personalize the treatment according to the needs of each client. Some of these approaches include person centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems therapy, and gestalt therapy, among others.
(214) 817-2167 View (214) 817-2167
Photo of Vitalina Tarasenko, LMFT-A, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Vitalina Tarasenko
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A, MA
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Vitalina, an LMFT Associate in the State of Texas. I work with couples, and Individuals. In my sessions, I create a warm, empathetic, and nonjudgmental atmosphere where clients feel safe to explore their deepest concerns. I work with anxiety, depression, maternity issues, conflicts, boundaries, self-esteem, childhood trauma, and codependency. As a first-generation immigrant, I am particularly keen to work with individuals who, like me, have had to build or rebuild their lives from scratch. I lived in Europe and the Middle East, which helped me to work well with the clients from multicultural environments.
Welcome! I'm Vitalina, an LMFT Associate in the State of Texas. I work with couples, and Individuals. In my sessions, I create a warm, empathetic, and nonjudgmental atmosphere where clients feel safe to explore their deepest concerns. I work with anxiety, depression, maternity issues, conflicts, boundaries, self-esteem, childhood trauma, and codependency. As a first-generation immigrant, I am particularly keen to work with individuals who, like me, have had to build or rebuild their lives from scratch. I lived in Europe and the Middle East, which helped me to work well with the clients from multicultural environments.
(469) 537-4387 View (469) 537-4387
1
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.