Psychodynamic Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Shonda J Pertilla, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Shonda J Pertilla
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
We all carry within us a dream, a purpose, a strength that flows, like water through our veins and every part of our being. It even flows through fear, pain, disappointment and all sorts of perceived failure. It gives meaning to life. It heals. It inspires. DreamWell LLC was born out of my dream to facilitate healing and to positively impact the lives of others. I hope to empower and support you in addressing the issues that have interrupted the flow of your personal and professional life and dreams.
We all carry within us a dream, a purpose, a strength that flows, like water through our veins and every part of our being. It even flows through fear, pain, disappointment and all sorts of perceived failure. It gives meaning to life. It heals. It inspires. DreamWell LLC was born out of my dream to facilitate healing and to positively impact the lives of others. I hope to empower and support you in addressing the issues that have interrupted the flow of your personal and professional life and dreams.
(202) 510-9742 View (202) 510-9742
Photo of Madeleine Lawrence, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
Madeleine Lawrence
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20012
I am a Masters-level counselor-in-training through Northwestern University currently offering counseling services at The Imago Center of Washington, DC. I am accepting clients with sliding scale pricing/low fee. Together, we can work on areas such as life transitions, grief and loss, self-esteem regulation, sexuality, anxiety, and depression. Using an integrative approach, I hope to work with young adults and couples in exploring areas such as sexual orientation, healthy relationship development, and positive sexuality as well as anxiety regulation and adjustment strategies.
I am a Masters-level counselor-in-training through Northwestern University currently offering counseling services at The Imago Center of Washington, DC. I am accepting clients with sliding scale pricing/low fee. Together, we can work on areas such as life transitions, grief and loss, self-esteem regulation, sexuality, anxiety, and depression. Using an integrative approach, I hope to work with young adults and couples in exploring areas such as sexual orientation, healthy relationship development, and positive sexuality as well as anxiety regulation and adjustment strategies.
(202) 930-8979 View (202) 930-8979
Photo of Tyger Latham, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Tyger Latham
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
I am a psychoanalyst and licensed clinical psychologist with a private practice in Dupont Circle, where I work with individuals and couples. As a psychoanalyst, I believe our early experiences often shape the way we relate to ourselves and others. I help individuals and couples examine patterns of thoughts, feelings and behaviors that often have their origins in early life experiences and may continue to generate feelings of unhappiness.
I am a psychoanalyst and licensed clinical psychologist with a private practice in Dupont Circle, where I work with individuals and couples. As a psychoanalyst, I believe our early experiences often shape the way we relate to ourselves and others. I help individuals and couples examine patterns of thoughts, feelings and behaviors that often have their origins in early life experiences and may continue to generate feelings of unhappiness.
(202) 684-8410 View (202) 684-8410
Photo of Into the Gray Counseling and Consulting, LLC, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Into the Gray Counseling and Consulting, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20059  (Online Only)
Today, you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As solution-focused psychologists, our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Today, you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As solution-focused psychologists, our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(410) 914-1619 View (410) 914-1619
Photo of Ana Buenaventura, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Ana Buenaventura
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I offer psychological services for individuals (adolescents, adults) and couples. I have helped clients with a range of issues including anxiety, depression, the aftermath of abuse and trauma, family conflict, life transitions, multicultural challenges, and career development. My specialties include working with people struggling with "self-invalidating" modes of thinking, as well as issues related to effectively navigating relationships and managing distress. I have expertise in supporting people struggling with multicultural situations, multiple cultural transitions, and family separations.
I offer psychological services for individuals (adolescents, adults) and couples. I have helped clients with a range of issues including anxiety, depression, the aftermath of abuse and trauma, family conflict, life transitions, multicultural challenges, and career development. My specialties include working with people struggling with "self-invalidating" modes of thinking, as well as issues related to effectively navigating relationships and managing distress. I have expertise in supporting people struggling with multicultural situations, multiple cultural transitions, and family separations.
(202) 517-2232 View (202) 517-2232
Photo of Miriam Jaffa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Miriam Jaffa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
Every person brings unique life experiences, strengths & challenges to the therapeutic process. I work to collaborate with clients towards a customized treatment approach that best meets their needs. I treat adolescents and adults, grappling with a wide range of issues and I find that anxiety and depression often show up through a variety of manifestations. As such, my role is to help people better understand their root causes. Therapy is centered around enhanced emotional well-being through increased insight and decision-making capabilities as well as improved coping strategies.
Every person brings unique life experiences, strengths & challenges to the therapeutic process. I work to collaborate with clients towards a customized treatment approach that best meets their needs. I treat adolescents and adults, grappling with a wide range of issues and I find that anxiety and depression often show up through a variety of manifestations. As such, my role is to help people better understand their root causes. Therapy is centered around enhanced emotional well-being through increased insight and decision-making capabilities as well as improved coping strategies.
(202) 519-1992 View (202) 519-1992
Photo of Justine Lassman, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
Justine Lassman
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
My training has primarily been psychodynamic and thus I believe our past has an impact on our present, however I draw on other approaches as needed including EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing).
Anxiety and depression are concerns for people of all ages and frequently contribute to feelings of stress. I work closely with individuals whose struggles are getting in the way of developing safe, loving relationships and achieving objectives as well as those who are facing major life transition and feeling overwhelmed. Providing a warm, supportive relationship, I work with clients to identify and change patterns of behavior that are troubling them. For all of us, within the context of major stressors and recent or distant traumas, opportunities are present for identifying and building on our strengths.
My training has primarily been psychodynamic and thus I believe our past has an impact on our present, however I draw on other approaches as needed including EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing).
Anxiety and depression are concerns for people of all ages and frequently contribute to feelings of stress. I work closely with individuals whose struggles are getting in the way of developing safe, loving relationships and achieving objectives as well as those who are facing major life transition and feeling overwhelmed. Providing a warm, supportive relationship, I work with clients to identify and change patterns of behavior that are troubling them. For all of us, within the context of major stressors and recent or distant traumas, opportunities are present for identifying and building on our strengths.
(202) 804-0997 View (202) 804-0997
Photo of Jocelyn V Vara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Jocelyn V Vara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Are you standing at a crossroads tempted to turn around because you're not sure how to take your next step? Do the "what if" scenarios that cycle through your mind make it difficult for you to make decisions and fall asleep at night? Do you feel stuck daydreaming of the life you want certain that it will only ever be a place you imagine? Does all of this make it hard to get out of bed some days, full of dread when you finally do, and likely to isolate from those you love?
Are you standing at a crossroads tempted to turn around because you're not sure how to take your next step? Do the "what if" scenarios that cycle through your mind make it difficult for you to make decisions and fall asleep at night? Do you feel stuck daydreaming of the life you want certain that it will only ever be a place you imagine? Does all of this make it hard to get out of bed some days, full of dread when you finally do, and likely to isolate from those you love?
(202) 946-5059 View (202) 946-5059
Photo of Rachel Sassoon, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Rachel Sassoon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
I believe that psychotherapy provides the opportunity to develop self-awareness, improve our relationships with others, and alleviate distress and suffering. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, dealing with life’s transitions and challenges, or seeking to improve your overall well-being, I can help you develop the strategies and insight to do so. Together we will identify patterns of relating to yourself and others that are no longer working for you and figure out how to replace them with more fulfilling and satisfying ones.
I believe that psychotherapy provides the opportunity to develop self-awareness, improve our relationships with others, and alleviate distress and suffering. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, dealing with life’s transitions and challenges, or seeking to improve your overall well-being, I can help you develop the strategies and insight to do so. Together we will identify patterns of relating to yourself and others that are no longer working for you and figure out how to replace them with more fulfilling and satisfying ones.
(202) 817-2274 View (202) 817-2274
Photo of Georgiana Mora, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Georgiana Mora
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EMDR-C, BSP-C
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that each person has an innate ability to heal from trauma and pain. Events from the past can impact our mind and body in the present--sometimes getting in the way of current relationships and goals. I offer a safe space to tap into transformative healing, self-exploration, and personal growth. My clients bring an array of issues to therapy including trauma, addiction, sexual difficulties, relationship challenges, self-injury, and dissociation. I work collaboratively, recognizing that each client brings their own unique strengths to the work.
I believe that each person has an innate ability to heal from trauma and pain. Events from the past can impact our mind and body in the present--sometimes getting in the way of current relationships and goals. I offer a safe space to tap into transformative healing, self-exploration, and personal growth. My clients bring an array of issues to therapy including trauma, addiction, sexual difficulties, relationship challenges, self-injury, and dissociation. I work collaboratively, recognizing that each client brings their own unique strengths to the work.
View
Photo of Ann Reifman, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Ann Reifman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
Therapy is a powerful tool for change. I believe that therapy works when people feel safe and challenged. The goal is for you to feel more competent, hopeful and happy in life. I will work with you to explore, understand and find strategies to move out of difficult situations. You may be searching for therapy because you are depressed, anxious, have low self esteem or feel stuck. You may be struggling with questions of identity, issues of fertility, career possibilities, unhappy relationships, aging parents, retirement. Change can happen at any age.
Therapy is a powerful tool for change. I believe that therapy works when people feel safe and challenged. The goal is for you to feel more competent, hopeful and happy in life. I will work with you to explore, understand and find strategies to move out of difficult situations. You may be searching for therapy because you are depressed, anxious, have low self esteem or feel stuck. You may be struggling with questions of identity, issues of fertility, career possibilities, unhappy relationships, aging parents, retirement. Change can happen at any age.
(202) 400-3100 View (202) 400-3100
Photo of Nicole Moore, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Nicole Moore
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who believes that everyone possesses the strengths and resources to overcome life’s challenges- even if sometimes we need a little assistance. I view seeking help as a sign of great strength. My role as a therapist is to help you better know and understand yourself. We will use this insight to build upon your innate abilities and strengths to understand obstacles, overcome challenges, and pave a way forward. I work with a Service Dog, Finn, who provides a gentle, loving presence that can be very comforting, anxiety reducing, and uplifting in sessions.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who believes that everyone possesses the strengths and resources to overcome life’s challenges- even if sometimes we need a little assistance. I view seeking help as a sign of great strength. My role as a therapist is to help you better know and understand yourself. We will use this insight to build upon your innate abilities and strengths to understand obstacles, overcome challenges, and pave a way forward. I work with a Service Dog, Finn, who provides a gentle, loving presence that can be very comforting, anxiety reducing, and uplifting in sessions.
(202) 915-5676 View (202) 915-5676
Photo of Fostering Oneness Support Services, Counselor in Washington, DC
Fostering Oneness Support Services
Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20001  (Online Only)
Eugenia specializes in phases of life challenges, trauma, depression, anxiety, behavioral management, life skills, and anger management. Although Eugenia follows an eclectic treatment approach, she has received training and certification in several evidence-based treatment approaches. She subscribes to Motivational Enhancement Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Person-Centered and Trauma-Informed Care, and other evidence-based practices that meet the client’s needs.
Eugenia specializes in phases of life challenges, trauma, depression, anxiety, behavioral management, life skills, and anger management. Although Eugenia follows an eclectic treatment approach, she has received training and certification in several evidence-based treatment approaches. She subscribes to Motivational Enhancement Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Person-Centered and Trauma-Informed Care, and other evidence-based practices that meet the client’s needs.
(240) 895-9532 View (240) 895-9532
Photo of Roshni Chatterjee, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Roshni Chatterjee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
My practice is built on the core principles of Trauma-Informed Care. I serve diverse group of adults in my practice who struggle with anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, relationship issues, grief etc. Clients benefit from psychoeducation, expressing conflicting feelings, increased self-awareness and implementing cognitive strategies. I also have a sub-speciality that focuses on serving the South Asian diaspora - specifically around issues of generational clashes, agency and choice, and other immigrant issues.
My practice is built on the core principles of Trauma-Informed Care. I serve diverse group of adults in my practice who struggle with anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, relationship issues, grief etc. Clients benefit from psychoeducation, expressing conflicting feelings, increased self-awareness and implementing cognitive strategies. I also have a sub-speciality that focuses on serving the South Asian diaspora - specifically around issues of generational clashes, agency and choice, and other immigrant issues.
(202) 798-1380 View (202) 798-1380
Photo of Rachel Yutzy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Rachel Yutzy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS , LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
I enjoy working with clients of all ages in individual, family, and group contexts. My practice is rooted in compassion and collaboration with clients and families, and I am experienced in working with clients through the lifespan regarding anxiety, OCD, trauma, and grief related issues. I excel in building a strong therapeutic relationship and believe this is the foundation of change and personal growth. I approach sessions with empathy and creativity, helping my clients as they learn to manage difficult emotions, navigate life’s many challenges, and cultivate healthy relationships.
I enjoy working with clients of all ages in individual, family, and group contexts. My practice is rooted in compassion and collaboration with clients and families, and I am experienced in working with clients through the lifespan regarding anxiety, OCD, trauma, and grief related issues. I excel in building a strong therapeutic relationship and believe this is the foundation of change and personal growth. I approach sessions with empathy and creativity, helping my clients as they learn to manage difficult emotions, navigate life’s many challenges, and cultivate healthy relationships.
(844) 719-3413 View (844) 719-3413
Photo of Shaquana Smith, Resident in Counseling in Washington, DC
Shaquana Smith
Resident in Counseling, MS, QMHP-C, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20020  (Online Only)
Hello, My name is Shaquana Smith and I am excited to work with you!  I am committed to providing the best therapeutic services to my clients.  I work within several different modalities which allows me to serve a multitude of clients; children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.  I have enjoyed introducing a variety of techniques and skills that have acted as a vehicle of change for my clients.  I have a deep appreciation for progress as I understand doing the work isn’t always easy.
Hello, My name is Shaquana Smith and I am excited to work with you!  I am committed to providing the best therapeutic services to my clients.  I work within several different modalities which allows me to serve a multitude of clients; children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.  I have enjoyed introducing a variety of techniques and skills that have acted as a vehicle of change for my clients.  I have a deep appreciation for progress as I understand doing the work isn’t always easy.
(703) 239-4836 View (703) 239-4836
Photo of Grace H Depp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Grace H Depp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
Patients with a history of trauma, addiction, or Attachment Issues will find comfort, guidance, education and even community in this practice through individual and/or group therapy as well as award-winning psychoeducation.
Patients with a history of trauma, addiction, or Attachment Issues will find comfort, guidance, education and even community in this practice through individual and/or group therapy as well as award-winning psychoeducation.
(202) 335-9550 View (202) 335-9550
Photo of Sheryl Aaron, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Sheryl Aaron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
Not accepting new clients
Whether you're struggling with relationships, navigating life transitions, feeling paralyzed by depression or anxiety, or trying to overcome trauma, I'd like to help you feel less stuck and more empowered to live a healthier, more meaningful life. Clients say they appreciate my warmth, humor and collaborative style as we tackle the sometimes difficult work of therapy as a team.
Whether you're struggling with relationships, navigating life transitions, feeling paralyzed by depression or anxiety, or trying to overcome trauma, I'd like to help you feel less stuck and more empowered to live a healthier, more meaningful life. Clients say they appreciate my warmth, humor and collaborative style as we tackle the sometimes difficult work of therapy as a team.
(202) 999-3386 View (202) 999-3386
Photo of Colleen Sandick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Colleen Sandick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
My caseload is full of dynamic and wonderful clients who seek to change the way they relate to themselves, their life circumstances, and their relationships. I have a particular interest working with recovering alcoholics actively working their 12-step program but are "just feeling stuck". In addition, I especially enjoy supporting women seeking to be authentic to themselves and those around them. Together, we will identify your goals and I will support you in pursuing your personal growth, finding your own answers and balance, and identifying and resolving how your past may be unconsciously impacting your day-to-day life.
My caseload is full of dynamic and wonderful clients who seek to change the way they relate to themselves, their life circumstances, and their relationships. I have a particular interest working with recovering alcoholics actively working their 12-step program but are "just feeling stuck". In addition, I especially enjoy supporting women seeking to be authentic to themselves and those around them. Together, we will identify your goals and I will support you in pursuing your personal growth, finding your own answers and balance, and identifying and resolving how your past may be unconsciously impacting your day-to-day life.
(202) 796-7699 View (202) 796-7699
Photo of Catherine Lowry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Catherine Lowry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20001  (Online Only)
My goal as a therapist is to help you understand and resolve the things that block you from happiness and emotional well-being. I work in a collaborative, interactive style that is both compassionate and challenging, and I ensure a safe and respectful atmosphere. I will work with you on practical solutions to immediate crises and problems; as well as understanding and changing maladaptive patterns of thinking, behaving, or feeling that stem from past experiences.
My goal as a therapist is to help you understand and resolve the things that block you from happiness and emotional well-being. I work in a collaborative, interactive style that is both compassionate and challenging, and I ensure a safe and respectful atmosphere. I will work with you on practical solutions to immediate crises and problems; as well as understanding and changing maladaptive patterns of thinking, behaving, or feeling that stem from past experiences.
(301) 852-5657 View (301) 852-5657
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.