What Is Psychodynamic Therapy — And How Can It Help You?
As a licensed psychotherapist and trained psychoanalyst, my approach is grounded in the psychodynamic tradition — a way of working that focuses on deep emotional insight, lasting change, and greater self-understanding.
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When people think of therapy, they often imagine talking about childhood or exploring dreams. While that image may seem cliché, it’s actually rooted in a powerful and time-tested approach called psychoanalysis.
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Although shorter and more accessible, psychodynamic therapy does much the same. It helps people understand how unconscious patterns — often rooted in early relationships — influence the way they feel, think, and relate to others today.
A modern approach with deep roots
Psychoanalysis typically involves multiple sessions per week and may continue over several years. It allows for deep exploration of the unconscious mind — how early experiences, internal conflicts, and emotional fantasies shape our inner world.
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Psychodynamic therapy, while grounded in the same principles, is usually once or twice a week and can be time-limited. It offers a more flexible, modern framework while still focusing on insight, self-awareness, and emotional growth.
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In both approaches, the goal is not simply short-term symptom relief, but meaningful and lasting change through self-understanding.
Looking Beneath the Surface
You might begin therapy with symptoms like anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or difficulty in relationships. But underneath those struggles, there are often untold stories, unresolved emotions, and patterns formed long ago that continue to shape your present.
Psychodynamic therapy offers space to explore these layers — to ask: Why do I keep ending up in the same situations? What am I avoiding? What do I truly want?
As awareness deepens, so does emotional freedom. You begin to notice the choices you have — in how you relate to others, respond to stress, and live your life.
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The Therapeutic Relationship as a Mirror
One of the most powerful tools in psychodynamic therapy is the relationship between therapist and client. As trust develops, aspects of your inner world begin to play out in the therapy room — giving both of us the opportunity to observe and understand emotional patterns in real time, with compassion and curiosity.
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Is Psychodynamic Therapy Right for You?
This approach may be a good fit if:
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You want more than symptom relief — you want to understand why things are the way they are
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You value depth and emotional insight
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You’ve noticed recurring patterns in your life and want to break free
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You’re open to exploring how your past may be affecting your present.
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Final Thoughts
Psychodynamic therapy is a modern path to deep self-understanding — one that respects your complexity and honors your desire for authentic, lasting change. While it draws from the rich tradition of psychoanalysis, it’s designed to meet the realities of modern life.
As a trained psychoanalyst, I offer both options: traditional psychoanalysis and psychodynamic therapy. We can begin with a psychodynamic approach and, over time, shift into analytic work if you choose — or begin with psychoanalysis from the start, depending on your needs and interest. The choice is yours.
If you're curious about either path and how it might help you, I’d be happy to talk with you.