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Psychodynamic
therapy services

How we react to events in our lives and cope with our emotions is often shaped by our past experiences. Psychodynamic therapy (PDT) takes a holistic approach to mental health, helping us explore the unconscious thoughts, needs, and fears that influence how we feel and behave.

PDT is based on the idea that talking about our lives helps us better understand ourselves and the deeper causes of our struggles. With this insight, we can make more intentional choices, change unhelpful patterns, and move toward greater fulfillment and improved mental health. It can be effective for:

  • Depression
  • Social anxiety disorder
  • Phobias
  • Eating disorders
  • Stress-related physical symptoms
  • Low self-esteem
  • Borderline personality disorder
  • Family troubles
  • Improving relationships
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How psychodynamic therapy can help

Psychodynamic therapy is a type of talk therapy that explores a person’s life experiences through meaningful conversation. This process helps build self-awareness and supports the resolution of unresolved emotions.

PDT’s effectiveness relies on the relationship between the client and the therapist. Trust is essential; clients may discuss current challenges, childhood, relationships, dreams, and other meaningful life experiences.

At Bhatia Psychology Group, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Through compassionate and professional care, we help you better understand yourself and create lasting emotional change.

Principles of
psychodynamic therapy

Psychodynamic therapy is grounded in five core principles that guide the therapeutic process. These include:

Our present-day personalities and emotional responses are shaped by past experiences.

Unconscious or repressed motivations, rooted in childhood, social influences, and internal conflicts, can impact our thoughts and behaviours.

By gaining awareness of how the past influences the present, we can develop healthier coping strategies and improve our mental well-being.

Healing from unresolved issues allows us to experience greater emotional freedom in the present.

Transference and countertransference are central concepts; clients may unconsciously project past relationship patterns onto the therapist. Exploring this dynamic can provide deep insight into how they relate to others.

Frequently asked questions

Psychodynamic therapy

How effective is psychodynamic therapy?

Research shows that psychodynamic therapy is as effective as many other widely used therapeutic approaches. Studies have found that its benefits often continue well beyond the end of treatment, with lasting improvements in emotional well-being. Every client is unique, and you and your therapist will work together to determine the best path forward for your individual needs.

How often should I meet with my therapist?
The number of sessions you have with your therapist depends entirely on your needs, preferences, and goals. Most clients meet for psychodynamic therapy once or twice a week.
How long will I be in psychodynamic therapy?

PDT takes an open-ended, exploratory approach to therapy. With PDT, we seek to understand the client as a whole person through all aspects of their life. For this reason, PDT often requires a longer treatment time than other therapies.

Short-term psychodynamic therapy usually runs for 25-30 sessions. Long-term psychodynamic therapy can stretch up to a year and include over 50 sessions. Ultimately, the time you spend in psychodynamic therapy depends on what you and your therapist decide best suits your needs and goals.

How is psychodynamic therapy different from other therapies?
Many therapies popular today are problem-based therapies, meaning they seek to find solutions for specific challenges and symptoms. Psychodynamic therapy, on the other hand, takes a broader, more exploratory approach. It focuses on understanding the deeper emotional roots of your experiences, not just managing symptoms. The goal is to achieve long-lasting change through increased self-awareness and insight. With greater self-awareness, clients can better understand their true wants, needs, and emotions—and take meaningful action.
Who is PDT not right for?
While psychodynamic therapy can be highly effective, it’s not the best fit for everyone. In some cases, psychodynamic therapy may be less effective on its own for treating conditions like PTSD, OCD, or substance use disorders—especially when those conditions require more immediate, symptom-focused interventions. That said, it can still be a valuable part of a broader treatment plan.
Will I see immediate results?

Every client’s healing journey is unique. Some people may begin to see shifts in their lives after only a few sessions. Meanwhile, others may benefit from more time to experience gradual and progressive changes.