Psychodynamic Therapists in Battle Ground, WA

Photo of Robin Weston - Roots., MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Robin Weston - Roots.
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Battle Ground, WA 98604
This client-centered, directive approach brings emotional and cognitive healing using Psychodynamic Talk Therapy, experiential therapies, and mindfulness.
If you're here, your outward "I have it all together" face is likely saying something different. Maybe you feel frustrated, confused, overwhelmed, and you don’t know how to stop the collapse. You can have a different story. What if you felt free, happy, confident, and life felt manageable or even enjoyable? What if you could understand what is fueling the chaos and resolve it, for good? I have good news...you can! Your childhood experiences create a foundation that drives your life as an adult. By taking time to explore your story, you can resolve the problematic issues you repeatedly encounter today.
This client-centered, directive approach brings emotional and cognitive healing using Psychodynamic Talk Therapy, experiential therapies, and mindfulness.
If you're here, your outward "I have it all together" face is likely saying something different. Maybe you feel frustrated, confused, overwhelmed, and you don’t know how to stop the collapse. You can have a different story. What if you felt free, happy, confident, and life felt manageable or even enjoyable? What if you could understand what is fueling the chaos and resolve it, for good? I have good news...you can! Your childhood experiences create a foundation that drives your life as an adult. By taking time to explore your story, you can resolve the problematic issues you repeatedly encounter today.
(360) 869-0178 View (360) 869-0178
Photo of Tara May - Blue Leaf Mental Wellness Center, LMFT, LMHC, LICSW, Psychologist
Blue Leaf Mental Wellness Center
Psychologist, LMFT, LMHC, LICSW
Verified Verified
Battle Ground, WA 98604
Welcome to Blue Leaf: Your Path to Healing, Growth, and Thriving. We now have current openings for in-person or telehealth appointments. Our specialized psychotherapy services cater to adults, couples, and families 18 and older. Located in the beautiful Officers Row area of Vancouver, our experienced therapists provide compassionate and effective care, trained in EMDR and other evidence-based treatments.
Welcome to Blue Leaf: Your Path to Healing, Growth, and Thriving. We now have current openings for in-person or telehealth appointments. Our specialized psychotherapy services cater to adults, couples, and families 18 and older. Located in the beautiful Officers Row area of Vancouver, our experienced therapists provide compassionate and effective care, trained in EMDR and other evidence-based treatments.
View
Photo of Alan Pasternak - Pasternak Counseling, Alan Pasternak, Psychologist
Pasternak Counseling
Psychologist, Alan Pasternak
Verified Verified
Battle Ground, WA 98604
As a semiretired Psychologist, I do not have an office and visit my client(s) in their home or office anywhere in Clark county. I am married to a Marriage and Family Therapist and understand the difficulties that couples have even with our level of knowledge. I help each member of the couple rise above the conflict and participate in healing their relationship by encouraging personal responsibility and self-disclosure and by getting in touch with the goodness in each person and the love they are missing.
As a semiretired Psychologist, I do not have an office and visit my client(s) in their home or office anywhere in Clark county. I am married to a Marriage and Family Therapist and understand the difficulties that couples have even with our level of knowledge. I help each member of the couple rise above the conflict and participate in healing their relationship by encouraging personal responsibility and self-disclosure and by getting in touch with the goodness in each person and the love they are missing.
(360) 227-5356 View (360) 227-5356
Photo of Jamie A Bunnell, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jamie A Bunnell
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Battle Ground, WA 98604  (Online Only)
Imagine having hope and happiness within your life instead of depression, anxiety, or at a loss in knowing where your life is taking you to. Learn to highlight the best assets, the strengths you already possess. Focusing on your Emotions and Solutions to bring you to the inner peace and balance within yourself while releasing trauma and past hurt. You are the only one that can direct your path and create everything you want within your healing journey. We often can stand in our own way so it is vital to knock these barriers down to find our true selves!
Imagine having hope and happiness within your life instead of depression, anxiety, or at a loss in knowing where your life is taking you to. Learn to highlight the best assets, the strengths you already possess. Focusing on your Emotions and Solutions to bring you to the inner peace and balance within yourself while releasing trauma and past hurt. You are the only one that can direct your path and create everything you want within your healing journey. We often can stand in our own way so it is vital to knock these barriers down to find our true selves!
(360) 968-7534 View (360) 968-7534
Photo of Mandy Miller, MA, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Mandy Miller
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Battle Ground, WA 98604  (Online Only)
UPDATE: Current availability for telehealth sessions! Limited open spots on Tuesdays and will open Thursday availability in September. Seeking therapy can be an exciting, scary, and/or overwhelming decision. I am here to help make that decision a positive one of personal empowerment. With respect and compassion, I work to create a comfortable and safe environment in which we can develop a therapeutic alliance and share in the journey of personal growth. Helping each client work through specific life challenges, goals, and transitions is both a privilege and a passion for me and I welcome the opportunity to be a part of your journey!
UPDATE: Current availability for telehealth sessions! Limited open spots on Tuesdays and will open Thursday availability in September. Seeking therapy can be an exciting, scary, and/or overwhelming decision. I am here to help make that decision a positive one of personal empowerment. With respect and compassion, I work to create a comfortable and safe environment in which we can develop a therapeutic alliance and share in the journey of personal growth. Helping each client work through specific life challenges, goals, and transitions is both a privilege and a passion for me and I welcome the opportunity to be a part of your journey!
(360) 492-4933 View (360) 492-4933
Photo of Tonya Molnar, PhD, LMHC, MHP, Counselor
Tonya Molnar
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
Battle Ground, WA 98604  (Online Only)
Are you exhausted, tired, stressed-out, and always on edge? Do you find racing thoughts are keeping you awake at night, tossing and turning instead of sleeping? You may be fed up with constant anxiety and lack of sleep that leaves you feeling tired and irritable and is causing you problems at work or home. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But, one this is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to start sleeping soundly again. You’re ready to start feeling good again. Most of all, you’re ready to start feeling energized about your life again.
Are you exhausted, tired, stressed-out, and always on edge? Do you find racing thoughts are keeping you awake at night, tossing and turning instead of sleeping? You may be fed up with constant anxiety and lack of sleep that leaves you feeling tired and irritable and is causing you problems at work or home. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But, one this is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to start sleeping soundly again. You’re ready to start feeling good again. Most of all, you’re ready to start feeling energized about your life again.
(360) 953-5896 View (360) 953-5896
Photo of Trayc Foskett, Counselor
Trayc Foskett
Counselor
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Battle Ground, WA 98604
When life throws you a curveball, even if it's an expected curve, it can take your feet right out from under you. It is my hope in counseling to help you find your footing again. To help you discover the strengths you didn't know or may have forgotten, you have within you. I work with individuals, couples, and families to find hope when you are knocked off your feet by some curves like interpersonal relationship distress, infidelity, empty nest, chapter of life changes, worry, work stress, and parent/adult relationships. Needing to remember who you were created to be? Reach out. Let's talk. (check spam for my email replies, please)
When life throws you a curveball, even if it's an expected curve, it can take your feet right out from under you. It is my hope in counseling to help you find your footing again. To help you discover the strengths you didn't know or may have forgotten, you have within you. I work with individuals, couples, and families to find hope when you are knocked off your feet by some curves like interpersonal relationship distress, infidelity, empty nest, chapter of life changes, worry, work stress, and parent/adult relationships. Needing to remember who you were created to be? Reach out. Let's talk. (check spam for my email replies, please)
(360) 300-4263 View (360) 300-4263
Photo of Preston Brennan, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Preston Brennan
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Battle Ground, WA 98604
You’ve seen enough videos, listened to enough podcasts, and read enough articles to know what you should do to fix your problems. Yet, you always seem to find yourself back in the same patterns you wanted out of. Whether it’s porn, substance use, procrastination, stress, or anger, you can’t shake the feeling that you're stuck with them. You may have even started to wonder if change is possible. Often, we feel this way because we are so focused on the symptoms, that we cannot address the deeper pain that is causing them.
You’ve seen enough videos, listened to enough podcasts, and read enough articles to know what you should do to fix your problems. Yet, you always seem to find yourself back in the same patterns you wanted out of. Whether it’s porn, substance use, procrastination, stress, or anger, you can’t shake the feeling that you're stuck with them. You may have even started to wonder if change is possible. Often, we feel this way because we are so focused on the symptoms, that we cannot address the deeper pain that is causing them.
(360) 215-5905 View (360) 215-5905
Photo of Jody Witman, MA, MHP, LMHC, Counselor
Jody Witman
Counselor, MA, MHP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Battle Ground, WA 98604
“The fundamental principle in care of the soul is that the soul needs tending. If we do not tend to things in their suffering, and decay, we risk living the life of the walking dead.” ~Thomas Moore. As I acquire experience as a therapist, it has become apparent that the therapeutic relationship between the counselor and the client is crucial to the success of the client. Counseling is based on trust and the professional connection, and through that connection, the counseling session becomes a co-creation that can unlock the client’s barriers to a fulfilling life.
“The fundamental principle in care of the soul is that the soul needs tending. If we do not tend to things in their suffering, and decay, we risk living the life of the walking dead.” ~Thomas Moore. As I acquire experience as a therapist, it has become apparent that the therapeutic relationship between the counselor and the client is crucial to the success of the client. Counseling is based on trust and the professional connection, and through that connection, the counseling session becomes a co-creation that can unlock the client’s barriers to a fulfilling life.
(360) 218-0323 View (360) 218-0323
Photo of Valinda Harlan Individuals Couples Communication Emotional Sexual Intimacy, LMHC, LPC, LPCC, NCC, Counselor
Valinda Harlan Individuals Couples Communication Emotional Sexual Intimacy
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Battle Ground, WA 98604
Yes, I am accepting new clients for in-person and telehealth sessions for individuals and couples. Please visit my website www.brightfuturecounseling1.com for more information and to book an appointment. There is hope for healing and change. If your relationship suffers from sexual issues or broken trust, if there is room to improve communication or intimacy, or if you are considering divorce, I can offer you help. If you feel sad or depressed, have experienced loss, or have anxiety, there is hope. I provide a supportive nonjudgmental space for individuals of all genders and sexualities, traditional and nontraditional couples.
Yes, I am accepting new clients for in-person and telehealth sessions for individuals and couples. Please visit my website www.brightfuturecounseling1.com for more information and to book an appointment. There is hope for healing and change. If your relationship suffers from sexual issues or broken trust, if there is room to improve communication or intimacy, or if you are considering divorce, I can offer you help. If you feel sad or depressed, have experienced loss, or have anxiety, there is hope. I provide a supportive nonjudgmental space for individuals of all genders and sexualities, traditional and nontraditional couples.
(360) 994-1334 View (360) 994-1334
Photo of Jennifer Bearse - Dr. Jennifer L. Bearse, PsyD, LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Jennifer L. Bearse, PsyD, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Battle Ground, WA 98604
Not accepting new clients
Life is good but sometimes it leaves a mark. The roots of our struggles can run deep, and often the actions we take to recover end up causing even more problems, leading to overwhelming hopelessness and disappointment. I believe that sharing your history and struggles in a safe and supported environment can give you space to see what is getting in your way, clarity to know what you can change, and strength to approach your situation differently and more effectively. My goal is to help you find insight, hope and determination to explore and remove the burden of past traumas, mistakes and damaging beliefs and to offer a path forward.
Life is good but sometimes it leaves a mark. The roots of our struggles can run deep, and often the actions we take to recover end up causing even more problems, leading to overwhelming hopelessness and disappointment. I believe that sharing your history and struggles in a safe and supported environment can give you space to see what is getting in your way, clarity to know what you can change, and strength to approach your situation differently and more effectively. My goal is to help you find insight, hope and determination to explore and remove the burden of past traumas, mistakes and damaging beliefs and to offer a path forward.
(360) 464-9704 View (360) 464-9704

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jenny Sites, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Jenny Sites
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ridgefield, WA 98642
Waitlist for new clients
My Interpersonal approach is integrative, utilizing cognitive-behavioral, family systems, psychodynamic and attachment theories in the focus of treatment.
One of the beautiful things about counseling is having the privilege to hear individual's stories. Each therapeutic interaction presents with unique history, strengths, and concerns. I operate primarily from an Interpersonal orientation which looks at the counseling relationship as a "safe haven" to facilitate the change each client desires. I believe that relationship - with self and with others - heals. I strive to hold space and actively participate with each client desiring change, counseling and working toward congruence of body, mind and spirit.
My Interpersonal approach is integrative, utilizing cognitive-behavioral, family systems, psychodynamic and attachment theories in the focus of treatment.
One of the beautiful things about counseling is having the privilege to hear individual's stories. Each therapeutic interaction presents with unique history, strengths, and concerns. I operate primarily from an Interpersonal orientation which looks at the counseling relationship as a "safe haven" to facilitate the change each client desires. I believe that relationship - with self and with others - heals. I strive to hold space and actively participate with each client desiring change, counseling and working toward congruence of body, mind and spirit.
(360) 499-0765 View (360) 499-0765
Photo of Jennifer Navarro, MA, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Navarro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98662
Waitlist for new clients
I use a psychodynamic approach to gain a wider perspective of systems you are part of to help you better navigate them.
The human condition is stressful for everyone right now. Healthcare providers, LGBTQ2SIA + and those with chronic pain/medical illness are feeling it more than ever. Depression, anxiety and trauma responses can be overlooked/minimized. What you are experiencing is real and you deserve the time, space and support to explore this. Are your thoughts, feelings and behaviors getting in the way of your relationships/work/goals/well-being? Are you taking better care of others than you are of yourself? Is it time to move beyond surviving and begin thriving? If so, perhaps it's time to reach out for a helping hand. All are welcome here.
I use a psychodynamic approach to gain a wider perspective of systems you are part of to help you better navigate them.
The human condition is stressful for everyone right now. Healthcare providers, LGBTQ2SIA + and those with chronic pain/medical illness are feeling it more than ever. Depression, anxiety and trauma responses can be overlooked/minimized. What you are experiencing is real and you deserve the time, space and support to explore this. Are your thoughts, feelings and behaviors getting in the way of your relationships/work/goals/well-being? Are you taking better care of others than you are of yourself? Is it time to move beyond surviving and begin thriving? If so, perhaps it's time to reach out for a helping hand. All are welcome here.
(503) 868-2273 View (503) 868-2273
Photo of Marsha Ecker, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Marsha Ecker
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98682  (Online Only)
I integrate psychodynamic and narrative therapy with mindfulness based methods to provide a comprehensive and holistic approach to mental health and well-being.
I have a particular expertise in working with individuals within the LGBTQIA2S+ community, and I am deeply committed to providing affirming and respectful care to people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and relationship dynamics. I understand the importance of cultural competence and sensitivity when working with diverse populations, including those who engage in kink and alternative lifestyles. Whether you are exploring your identity, navigating relationship dynamics, or seeking support for mental health concerns, I offer a non-judgmental and affirming space where you can feel understood and accepted.
I integrate psychodynamic and narrative therapy with mindfulness based methods to provide a comprehensive and holistic approach to mental health and well-being.
I have a particular expertise in working with individuals within the LGBTQIA2S+ community, and I am deeply committed to providing affirming and respectful care to people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and relationship dynamics. I understand the importance of cultural competence and sensitivity when working with diverse populations, including those who engage in kink and alternative lifestyles. Whether you are exploring your identity, navigating relationship dynamics, or seeking support for mental health concerns, I offer a non-judgmental and affirming space where you can feel understood and accepted.
(360) 531-7573 View (360) 531-7573
Photo of Tina L Powell, MA, MS, LMHC, NCC, DVTP, Counselor
Tina L Powell
Counselor, MA, MS, LMHC, NCC, DVTP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98665
Reflecting on my own counseling practice, I have discovered the overwhelming strength and healing power of human connectedness which is an essential cornerstone of my therapeutic counseling relationships. Life is a journey filled with both opportunities and challenges. When daily life and/or life transitions seem too overwhelming, the guidance and support provided from a trusted professional who is empathetic and objective can be informative, empowering, and restorative. I use cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic interventions to help clients discover how conscious and unconscious thoughts impact emotions and behaviors. In addition, I draw from a variety of counseling theories to meet each client's individual needs.
Reflecting on my own counseling practice, I have discovered the overwhelming strength and healing power of human connectedness which is an essential cornerstone of my therapeutic counseling relationships. Life is a journey filled with both opportunities and challenges. When daily life and/or life transitions seem too overwhelming, the guidance and support provided from a trusted professional who is empathetic and objective can be informative, empowering, and restorative. I use cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic interventions to help clients discover how conscious and unconscious thoughts impact emotions and behaviors. In addition, I draw from a variety of counseling theories to meet each client's individual needs.
(360) 614-2529 View (360) 614-2529
Photo of Aisha Willard, MA, LMFT, CMHS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aisha Willard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMHS
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682  (Online Only)
I use a variety of techniques to help individuals, couples and families overcome struggles such as, but not limited to EMDR Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Human connection is super important to health and happiness, so why do so many of us struggle with it? Many issues impact and complicate human connection such as stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, family dynamics, and life transitions. I work to help individuals, families, and couples build deeper connections with each other as well as themselves. Because I believe human connection is so important, I do my best to bring my authentic self into sessions which can look nurturing, playful, laid-back, candid and supportive.
I use a variety of techniques to help individuals, couples and families overcome struggles such as, but not limited to EMDR Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Human connection is super important to health and happiness, so why do so many of us struggle with it? Many issues impact and complicate human connection such as stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, family dynamics, and life transitions. I work to help individuals, families, and couples build deeper connections with each other as well as themselves. Because I believe human connection is so important, I do my best to bring my authentic self into sessions which can look nurturing, playful, laid-back, candid and supportive.
(360) 587-0374 View (360) 587-0374
Photo of Dr. David Ross, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. David Ross
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98662
Hello, I am a Clinical Psychologist specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I also support clients with a variety of health related issues including pain, anxiety, and depression. Clients often express the invaluable support they have received from having a knowledgeable professional walk with them through their life and/or medical journey. I use psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapies to help you overcome the anxiety, depression, and anger that negatively impact your life, work, and relationships. I would be honored to join you in working to develop the life you desire to be living right now.
Hello, I am a Clinical Psychologist specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I also support clients with a variety of health related issues including pain, anxiety, and depression. Clients often express the invaluable support they have received from having a knowledgeable professional walk with them through their life and/or medical journey. I use psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapies to help you overcome the anxiety, depression, and anger that negatively impact your life, work, and relationships. I would be honored to join you in working to develop the life you desire to be living right now.
(360) 226-8227 View (360) 226-8227
Photo of Nancy Kyrie Campbell, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Kyrie Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98665
In my studies and training, I have focused primarily on a body-mind approach to human psychological development incorporating psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and systems-oriented principles.
I have worked with individuals, couples, families, and groups. My current focus is primarily on people dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, attachment, life transitions, trauma, family and other interpersonal issues. I use a highly respectful approach in helping my clients address their issues and build effective coping and communication skills. This can include identifying and shifting limiting patterns (based on experiences of the past) that have continued to influence their present-day emotions, attitudes, interactions, expectations, and decisions. I work with each individual in a way that empowers them to stay in charge of their own therapeutic process.
In my studies and training, I have focused primarily on a body-mind approach to human psychological development incorporating psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and systems-oriented principles.
I have worked with individuals, couples, families, and groups. My current focus is primarily on people dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, attachment, life transitions, trauma, family and other interpersonal issues. I use a highly respectful approach in helping my clients address their issues and build effective coping and communication skills. This can include identifying and shifting limiting patterns (based on experiences of the past) that have continued to influence their present-day emotions, attitudes, interactions, expectations, and decisions. I work with each individual in a way that empowers them to stay in charge of their own therapeutic process.
(360) 207-2598 View (360) 207-2598
Photo of Jennifer Spencer, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Spencer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682
My name is Jennifer Spencer, MSW, LICSW, LCSW and I’m licensed in both Washington and Colorado. I offer fifteen years of professional experience in the helping profession. The modalities I prefer are client-centered, strengths-based, psychoanalytic, talk therapy, attachment-based, and mindfulness skills. My experience is working primarily with adults. My focus populations include women issues, queer issues, seniors with health conditions, veterans, PTSD, men’s issues, domestic violence in hetero and same-sex relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar, suicidal ideation, personality disorders, codependency, and narcissism.
My name is Jennifer Spencer, MSW, LICSW, LCSW and I’m licensed in both Washington and Colorado. I offer fifteen years of professional experience in the helping profession. The modalities I prefer are client-centered, strengths-based, psychoanalytic, talk therapy, attachment-based, and mindfulness skills. My experience is working primarily with adults. My focus populations include women issues, queer issues, seniors with health conditions, veterans, PTSD, men’s issues, domestic violence in hetero and same-sex relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar, suicidal ideation, personality disorders, codependency, and narcissism.
(509) 479-1368 View (509) 479-1368
Photo of Michelle Newton - Aspire Behavioral Health, Michelle Newton, MA, MFT, LMHC, CMHS, QMHP, Counselor
Aspire Behavioral Health, Michelle Newton
Counselor, MA, MFT, LMHC, CMHS, QMHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98662
"Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans". With over 18 years in the field, I am an experienced clinician. Challenges in your relationship as a couple, dealing with an explosive child or teenager, depression, anxiety, trauma, and struggling to have a healthier, happier relationship as a couple, family or individual? Here's where you can take your first step. There is hope and things can change. I am a down-to-earth therapist with a warm and caring nature. I provide an empathetic and safe place where you can be yourself without fear of judgment.
"Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans". With over 18 years in the field, I am an experienced clinician. Challenges in your relationship as a couple, dealing with an explosive child or teenager, depression, anxiety, trauma, and struggling to have a healthier, happier relationship as a couple, family or individual? Here's where you can take your first step. There is hope and things can change. I am a down-to-earth therapist with a warm and caring nature. I provide an empathetic and safe place where you can be yourself without fear of judgment.
(360) 633-2300 View (360) 633-2300

See more therapy options for Battle Ground

Nearby Psychodynamic Therapists Searches for Battle Ground

See More Psychodynamic Therapists
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.