Psychodynamic Therapists in Wisconsin

Photo of Daniel Caminiti, LPC-it, Counselor
Daniel Caminiti
Counselor, LPC-it
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
I utilize cognitive-behavioral, dialectical, and psychodynamic interventions to support clients in their journey towards positive change.
Hello, I'm Dan, a caring and devoted therapist dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey towards healing and overcoming life's obstacles. I bring a unique combination of clinical expertise, spiritual insight, and practical wisdom to my practice, cultivated through diverse experiences in various mental health settings as well my own life. My therapeutic focus encompasses a broad spectrum of issues, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relational issues, ADHD, trauma, and adjustment disorders.
I utilize cognitive-behavioral, dialectical, and psychodynamic interventions to support clients in their journey towards positive change.
Hello, I'm Dan, a caring and devoted therapist dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey towards healing and overcoming life's obstacles. I bring a unique combination of clinical expertise, spiritual insight, and practical wisdom to my practice, cultivated through diverse experiences in various mental health settings as well my own life. My therapeutic focus encompasses a broad spectrum of issues, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relational issues, ADHD, trauma, and adjustment disorders.
(262) 729-3143 View (262) 729-3143
Photo of Darcy Thompson, MSW, APSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darcy Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, APSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53209
Hello! I am so excited to work with you on your treatment goals. I received my Bachelors and Masters of Social Work degrees from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, where I studied and practiced Trauma-Informed care, Person-Centered treatment approaches and Solution-Focused therapies. I also have experience using Motivational Interviewing, Crisis Stabilization and Intervention, Psychodynamic Therapy, Mindfulness, and Emotion-Regulation practices.
Hello! I am so excited to work with you on your treatment goals. I received my Bachelors and Masters of Social Work degrees from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, where I studied and practiced Trauma-Informed care, Person-Centered treatment approaches and Solution-Focused therapies. I also have experience using Motivational Interviewing, Crisis Stabilization and Intervention, Psychodynamic Therapy, Mindfulness, and Emotion-Regulation practices.
(414) 348-0043 View (414) 348-0043
Photo of Aaron L Rutell - Easttown Psychotherapy, L.L.C., MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Easttown Psychotherapy, L.L.C.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
With compassion and understanding, I work to create a safe and trusting environment for individuals to share their inner most thoughts and feelings.  I will also meet each individual where they are in life and to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth the they are committed to accomplishing. As a therapist uniquely trained to listen in depth, I offer my warm, thoughtful style and 15 years of experience to listen with patience, understanding and insight.  If you are wanting more than just listening and understanding, you maybe seeking therapy because today's troubles express how something's not working for you.  My psychodynamic approach considers your current circumstance, past history, feelings and motivations, dreams and disappointments. In short, you as a whole person. By looking at you as a whole person, I can help you develop your self understanding and acceptance so that you can be more open of your strengths, accepting of your limitations, capable of a living a fuller life and confident about today.
With compassion and understanding, I work to create a safe and trusting environment for individuals to share their inner most thoughts and feelings.  I will also meet each individual where they are in life and to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth the they are committed to accomplishing. As a therapist uniquely trained to listen in depth, I offer my warm, thoughtful style and 15 years of experience to listen with patience, understanding and insight.  If you are wanting more than just listening and understanding, you maybe seeking therapy because today's troubles express how something's not working for you.  My psychodynamic approach considers your current circumstance, past history, feelings and motivations, dreams and disappointments. In short, you as a whole person. By looking at you as a whole person, I can help you develop your self understanding and acceptance so that you can be more open of your strengths, accepting of your limitations, capable of a living a fuller life and confident about today.
(414) 306-6627 View (414) 306-6627
Photo of Flora Ripp, Licensed Professional Counselor
Flora Ripp
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookfield, WI 53005
I draw upon psychodynamic psychotherapy, IFS, Somatics (body-centered therapy), and transpersonal psychology.
Through a warm and gentle approach, I create space for clients to unpack whatever is troubling them with patience and support. Often “symptoms” are a function of being stuck or at odds with ourselves and others, or from painfully re-living past events. After establishing a sense of safety and addressing the most pressing problems, I gently help clients reconnect with their physical experience and begin the process of healing inner conflict and relational patterns. Through this process, clients come to better understand themselves and live more peacefully in the here and now. In a word, they become more authentic.
I draw upon psychodynamic psychotherapy, IFS, Somatics (body-centered therapy), and transpersonal psychology.
Through a warm and gentle approach, I create space for clients to unpack whatever is troubling them with patience and support. Often “symptoms” are a function of being stuck or at odds with ourselves and others, or from painfully re-living past events. After establishing a sense of safety and addressing the most pressing problems, I gently help clients reconnect with their physical experience and begin the process of healing inner conflict and relational patterns. Through this process, clients come to better understand themselves and live more peacefully in the here and now. In a word, they become more authentic.
(414) 296-6564 View (414) 296-6564
Photo of Bethany Hafenstein-Riege, LPC-IT, MS, Counselor
Bethany Hafenstein-Riege
Counselor, LPC-IT, MS
Verified Verified
Oconomowoc, WI 53066
Through a psychodynamic lens, incorporating a trauma-informed and strengths-based approach, I join my clients in working through difficult experiences to gain a stronger sense of self and wellness.
I believe our life experiences shape who we are and determine how we interpret and respond to the world around us. Sometimes, our experiences can leave us feeling isolated, anxious, or unworthy. Life can feel hard and seeking help can feel scary. You are not alone.
Through a psychodynamic lens, incorporating a trauma-informed and strengths-based approach, I join my clients in working through difficult experiences to gain a stronger sense of self and wellness.
I believe our life experiences shape who we are and determine how we interpret and respond to the world around us. Sometimes, our experiences can leave us feeling isolated, anxious, or unworthy. Life can feel hard and seeking help can feel scary. You are not alone.
(262) 254-2852 View (262) 254-2852
Photo of Angie Rajchel, MA, LPC-IT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Angie Rajchel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53705  (Online Only)
I often utilize Mindfulness, CBT, DBT, and Psychodynamic methods of therapy.
As we struggle with stress, frustration or anger, we might become anxious and depressed. Expressing thoughts and emotions can be really difficult and uncomfortable, but can feel envigorating, especially when there is no judgment. Counseling can be empowering, lifting some of the emotional weight we carry every day. With a slight shift in mentality, we might open gates to peace and happiness. Coming to counseling is you fighting to feel happy, and I can help you.
I often utilize Mindfulness, CBT, DBT, and Psychodynamic methods of therapy.
As we struggle with stress, frustration or anger, we might become anxious and depressed. Expressing thoughts and emotions can be really difficult and uncomfortable, but can feel envigorating, especially when there is no judgment. Counseling can be empowering, lifting some of the emotional weight we carry every day. With a slight shift in mentality, we might open gates to peace and happiness. Coming to counseling is you fighting to feel happy, and I can help you.
(414) 667-5684 View (414) 667-5684
Photo of Jody Marion Reiss, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jody Marion Reiss
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53705
I use an integrative perspective, including strength-based, psychodynamic, solution-focused, humor, and play.
When things feel overwhelming it is sometimes hard to see a path forward. I believe that anyone can make changes in their lives if they want to and are encouraged by a strong sense of hope, which I make every effort to provide. I work collaboratively, in a non-judgmental, client-centered, creative, accepting space. As a family systems therapist, I recognize how much that system influences one's perspectives and sometimes, struggles.
I use an integrative perspective, including strength-based, psychodynamic, solution-focused, humor, and play.
When things feel overwhelming it is sometimes hard to see a path forward. I believe that anyone can make changes in their lives if they want to and are encouraged by a strong sense of hope, which I make every effort to provide. I work collaboratively, in a non-judgmental, client-centered, creative, accepting space. As a family systems therapist, I recognize how much that system influences one's perspectives and sometimes, struggles.
(608) 200-2864 View (608) 200-2864
Photo of Audrey Lewis, MS, LPC-IT, Counselor
Audrey Lewis
Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
I take a trauma-informed, person-centered stance to help you uncover your own goals and collaboratively work with you to meet those goals primarily drawing from humanistic, psychodynamic, attachment, and acceptance and commitment (ACT) perspectives.
Seeking therapy is both an admirable and courageous first step in your journey towards wellness as defined by you. Whether you are facing a difficult life transition, wish to manage distressing mental health symptoms, or would like help identifying and breaking free from patterns that are interfering with your personal growth, you deserve an emotionally safe and judgement-free space to explore any and all facets of your life. Each client has unique needs, therefore there is no one-size-fits-all approach to mental health.
I take a trauma-informed, person-centered stance to help you uncover your own goals and collaboratively work with you to meet those goals primarily drawing from humanistic, psychodynamic, attachment, and acceptance and commitment (ACT) perspectives.
Seeking therapy is both an admirable and courageous first step in your journey towards wellness as defined by you. Whether you are facing a difficult life transition, wish to manage distressing mental health symptoms, or would like help identifying and breaking free from patterns that are interfering with your personal growth, you deserve an emotionally safe and judgement-free space to explore any and all facets of your life. Each client has unique needs, therefore there is no one-size-fits-all approach to mental health.
(414) 667-7484 x512 View (414) 667-7484 x512
Photo of Krystal Smith, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Krystal Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Eau Claire, WI 54701
I commonly blend psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered theories, parts work, and especially love using the interpersonal process of therapy to allow for new perspectives and growth in my client’s lives.
Pick your hard, it’s hard to change and it’s also hard to stay the same. There is no easy way, pick your hard and let’s work through it together. My top interests include working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, personal growth, adjustment issues, and trauma. I especially enjoy working with college students. My clients are individuals who are eager to explore and understand themselves deeply, seeking clarity on behaviors & feelings; openness to thoughtful challenges; dedication to meaningful, long-term growth through therapy, not just quick fixes.
I commonly blend psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered theories, parts work, and especially love using the interpersonal process of therapy to allow for new perspectives and growth in my client’s lives.
Pick your hard, it’s hard to change and it’s also hard to stay the same. There is no easy way, pick your hard and let’s work through it together. My top interests include working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, personal growth, adjustment issues, and trauma. I especially enjoy working with college students. My clients are individuals who are eager to explore and understand themselves deeply, seeking clarity on behaviors & feelings; openness to thoughtful challenges; dedication to meaningful, long-term growth through therapy, not just quick fixes.
(715) 462-2584 View (715) 462-2584
Photo of Melissa Hackbarth, LPC, MA, NCC, Counselor
Melissa Hackbarth
Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oconomowoc, WI 53066
Through a person-centered and psychodynamic approach, I provide comprehensive and compassionate support for clients in terms of self-exploration (answering that big question of "why?"), personal development, and educational growth.
Stop scrolling, take a breath, you've got this! You may be thinking "how will I know if therapy is a good fit for me?" Therapy is not a one-size-fits all, in which I strive to provide a space that is uniquely tailored to YOU and your specific therapeutic goals. The clients I work with are looking to go beyond and explore the "depths" of problems/challenges they face as well as gain a better understanding of what makes them who they are. I connect best with clients ages 12+ looking to heal from challenges with anxiety, relationship challenges, depression, life transitions and loss of self/identity.
Through a person-centered and psychodynamic approach, I provide comprehensive and compassionate support for clients in terms of self-exploration (answering that big question of "why?"), personal development, and educational growth.
Stop scrolling, take a breath, you've got this! You may be thinking "how will I know if therapy is a good fit for me?" Therapy is not a one-size-fits all, in which I strive to provide a space that is uniquely tailored to YOU and your specific therapeutic goals. The clients I work with are looking to go beyond and explore the "depths" of problems/challenges they face as well as gain a better understanding of what makes them who they are. I connect best with clients ages 12+ looking to heal from challenges with anxiety, relationship challenges, depression, life transitions and loss of self/identity.
(262) 233-2372 View (262) 233-2372
Photo of Tasharra L Williams - Resiliency Counseling & Wellness Services LLC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Resiliency Counseling & Wellness Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
My framework is derived from Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, and Mindfulness Therapy.
I have worked with various clients of various populations and walks of life. The ultimate goal of the client is to be seen and heard and to develop the ability to grow into their best selves. Therapy may allow the client to learn, cope and or heal so that they are able to function in their everyday lives in harmony.
My framework is derived from Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, and Mindfulness Therapy.
I have worked with various clients of various populations and walks of life. The ultimate goal of the client is to be seen and heard and to develop the ability to grow into their best selves. Therapy may allow the client to learn, cope and or heal so that they are able to function in their everyday lives in harmony.
(414) 928-8233 View (414) 928-8233
Photo of Katrina Gruber, LPC, Counselor
Katrina Gruber
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Greenfield, WI 53221
With this, I am psychodynamic in my approach.
I am very passionate about working with people of all experiences and ages. I especially am passionate about working with children and adolescents and have the most experience working with the adolescent age group. I am interested in treating mental disorders and symptoms such as depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, autism-spectrum disorder, personality disorders, and more. I also have experience with family therapy.
With this, I am psychodynamic in my approach.
I am very passionate about working with people of all experiences and ages. I especially am passionate about working with children and adolescents and have the most experience working with the adolescent age group. I am interested in treating mental disorders and symptoms such as depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, autism-spectrum disorder, personality disorders, and more. I also have experience with family therapy.
(414) 928-8134 View (414) 928-8134
Photo of Carly Klein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carly Klein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53211
Your journey towards healing and self-discovery begins today! Carly is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with her Substance Abuse Counseling in training license. Carly has eight years of direct clinical experience and specializes in working with adults with co-occurring substance use and mental health concerns, trauma, anxiety and depression disorders and individuals facing adversity. Carly uses a variety of techniques including Psychodynamic Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Motivational Interviewing and Internal Family Systems.
Your journey towards healing and self-discovery begins today! Carly is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with her Substance Abuse Counseling in training license. Carly has eight years of direct clinical experience and specializes in working with adults with co-occurring substance use and mental health concerns, trauma, anxiety and depression disorders and individuals facing adversity. Carly uses a variety of techniques including Psychodynamic Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Motivational Interviewing and Internal Family Systems.
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Photo of Brian Quick, MS, LPC, Counselor
Brian Quick
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oconomowoc, WI 53066
I use a combination of EMDR, psychodynamic and emotion-based parts work to address mental wellness.
It is ok to ask for help! I specialize in counseling adults and teens who experience unwanted thoughts, feel overcome by their emotions, or are battling anxiety and depression caused by life challenges and trauma. With over 6 years of working in the mental health field, I have experience addressing: men's issues; life adjustment and stress; intrusive thinking; mood and emotional regulation; relationship and communication concerns; motivation; issues related to gender and sexuality; LGBTQ+ identity; and spirituality. I work well with those motivated to understand themselves better, who wish to take steps towards healing and growth.
I use a combination of EMDR, psychodynamic and emotion-based parts work to address mental wellness.
It is ok to ask for help! I specialize in counseling adults and teens who experience unwanted thoughts, feel overcome by their emotions, or are battling anxiety and depression caused by life challenges and trauma. With over 6 years of working in the mental health field, I have experience addressing: men's issues; life adjustment and stress; intrusive thinking; mood and emotional regulation; relationship and communication concerns; motivation; issues related to gender and sexuality; LGBTQ+ identity; and spirituality. I work well with those motivated to understand themselves better, who wish to take steps towards healing and growth.
(262) 800-4285 View (262) 800-4285
Photo of Mariann Elizabeth Dunbar, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mariann Elizabeth Dunbar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Shorewood, WI 53211
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a psychodynamic therapist blending holistic healing with neuroscience, offering a holistic approach to mental well-being. With experience in the queer and straight communities, I foster inclusive healing spaces for all. My expertise in personality and mood disorders, particularly narcissistic abuse, guides clients towards understanding and overcoming complex relational dynamics. I also have a passion for assisting clients with career challenges ,as well as life and relationship transitions.
I'm a psychodynamic therapist blending holistic healing with neuroscience, offering a holistic approach to mental well-being. With experience in the queer and straight communities, I foster inclusive healing spaces for all. My expertise in personality and mood disorders, particularly narcissistic abuse, guides clients towards understanding and overcoming complex relational dynamics. I also have a passion for assisting clients with career challenges ,as well as life and relationship transitions.
(414) 409-9767 View (414) 409-9767
Photo of Alexis Leonard, APSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexis Leonard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, APSW
Verified Verified
Oak Creek, WI 53154
I strive to treat every client as unique individuals who are not defined by their life struggles, but are seeking empowerment and tools to overcome them. I utilize a vast array of therapeutic techniques in order to meet the needs of each of her clients, including, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Client-Centered approaches, and Psychodynamic Therapy. I also believe that therapy is a team effort and is most effective when the therapist and client work together through trust and rapport, and identifies honesty/transparency as a key component to the efficacy of treatment.
I strive to treat every client as unique individuals who are not defined by their life struggles, but are seeking empowerment and tools to overcome them. I utilize a vast array of therapeutic techniques in order to meet the needs of each of her clients, including, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Client-Centered approaches, and Psychodynamic Therapy. I also believe that therapy is a team effort and is most effective when the therapist and client work together through trust and rapport, and identifies honesty/transparency as a key component to the efficacy of treatment.
(262) 592-8224 View (262) 592-8224
Photo of Sabrina Bokhari, MAC, LPC-IT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sabrina Bokhari
Pre-Licensed Professional, MAC, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
Menasha, WI 54952
Are you burning out at work? Struggling with how to communicate your needs with your boss or employer? Do you struggle with boundaries and self-worth? It's time to put yourself and your needs before that of work. I utilize a blend of humor and evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and psychodynamic theories. I primarily work with clients aged 18 and older, addressing issues such as work stress and anxiety, burnout and self-esteem challenges. I also work with those with trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, self-esteem challenges, and relationship issues.
Are you burning out at work? Struggling with how to communicate your needs with your boss or employer? Do you struggle with boundaries and self-worth? It's time to put yourself and your needs before that of work. I utilize a blend of humor and evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and psychodynamic theories. I primarily work with clients aged 18 and older, addressing issues such as work stress and anxiety, burnout and self-esteem challenges. I also work with those with trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, self-esteem challenges, and relationship issues.
(920) 620-6942 View (920) 620-6942
Photo of Leslie Golden, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie Golden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53704
Waitlist for new clients
I provide individual therapy to adults with an emphasis on exploration, collaboration, and discovery. I focus on a broad range of issues including depression, anxiety, identity, women’s issues, interpersonal difficulties, life transitions, chronic pain and other medical challenges. I work from a psychodynamic lens to help you identify the powerful forces that shape your life and are often hiding in plain sight. Together we can explore your current personal experience, early life, and family history to better understand patterns, gain meaning and self-understanding, to relieve suffering, and to feel empowered to change how you live.
I provide individual therapy to adults with an emphasis on exploration, collaboration, and discovery. I focus on a broad range of issues including depression, anxiety, identity, women’s issues, interpersonal difficulties, life transitions, chronic pain and other medical challenges. I work from a psychodynamic lens to help you identify the powerful forces that shape your life and are often hiding in plain sight. Together we can explore your current personal experience, early life, and family history to better understand patterns, gain meaning and self-understanding, to relieve suffering, and to feel empowered to change how you live.
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Photo of Kerrin Sendrowitz O'Connor, PhD, Psychologist
Kerrin Sendrowitz O'Connor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54914  (Online Only)
My theoretical orientation leans towards interpersonal process and psychodynamic, with a focus on how individuals often get stuck in difficult patterns in relation to self and others.
A few years ago, I moved from upstate New York to Appleton, Wisconsin. I'm loving life in the Midwest! I am happy to be licensed in both Wisconsin and New York. At this time, I am ONLY seeing clients virtually using a HIPAA-compliant app called Spruce for video-based telehealth sessions. As of September 2024, I’ve recently had a few client spaces open up. These openings are mostly during the work week hours, but I’d love to see if we’re a fit. I’m not accepting insurance directly, but many of my clients are able to receive reimbursement by submitting my superbill to their insurance.
My theoretical orientation leans towards interpersonal process and psychodynamic, with a focus on how individuals often get stuck in difficult patterns in relation to self and others.
A few years ago, I moved from upstate New York to Appleton, Wisconsin. I'm loving life in the Midwest! I am happy to be licensed in both Wisconsin and New York. At this time, I am ONLY seeing clients virtually using a HIPAA-compliant app called Spruce for video-based telehealth sessions. As of September 2024, I’ve recently had a few client spaces open up. These openings are mostly during the work week hours, but I’d love to see if we’re a fit. I’m not accepting insurance directly, but many of my clients are able to receive reimbursement by submitting my superbill to their insurance.
(920) 383-3498 View (920) 383-3498
Photo of Benjamin de Boer, PsyD, CGP, Psychologist
Benjamin de Boer
Psychologist, PsyD, CGP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53703  (Online Only)
I see psychotherapy as a collaborative and exploratory process, in which your specific goals, needs, and wishes will determine the focus of our work and I will help you navigate through the impasses, challenges, and complexity that inevitably confront us as human beings. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to addressing mental health or for righting the ‘ship – our relationship to self and others in our life. That is why I tailor treatment to address the deeply personal concerns you are contending with. I have experience in psychodynamic, relational, CBT, and ACT. Oftentimes, a combination or integration of approaches works best.
I see psychotherapy as a collaborative and exploratory process, in which your specific goals, needs, and wishes will determine the focus of our work and I will help you navigate through the impasses, challenges, and complexity that inevitably confront us as human beings. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to addressing mental health or for righting the ‘ship – our relationship to self and others in our life. That is why I tailor treatment to address the deeply personal concerns you are contending with. I have experience in psychodynamic, relational, CBT, and ACT. Oftentimes, a combination or integration of approaches works best.
(608) 602-8348 View (608) 602-8348
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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.