Effectiveness of Psychodynamic Therapy
Research consistently supports the effectiveness of psychodynamic psychotherapy, showing lasting improvements for various mental health conditions even after therapy ends. Studies by Shedler (2010) and Leichsenring & Rabung (2008) highlight that psychodynamic therapy not only offers short-term symptom relief but also promotes long-term emotional stability and personal fulfillment. Some highlights of these studies are as follows:
General Effectiveness: A meta-analysis by Shedler (2010) found that psychodynamic therapy has a strong therapeutic impact, with an effect size of 0.97—comparable to or exceeding that of other leading therapeutic approaches.
Long-Term Outcomes: Unlike some short-term therapies where benefits fade over time, research shows that patients who undergo psychodynamic therapy often continue to improve even after therapy ends.
Comparison to Other Therapies: A meta-analysis by Leichsenring & Rabung (2008) found that long-term psychodynamic therapy (LTPP) was more effective than shorter-term therapies, particularly for complex mental health conditions such as personality disorders.
Impact on Depression and Anxiety: A review of 23 studies (Steinert et al., 2017) confirmed that psychodynamic therapy is effective for depression and anxiety, with results comparable to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) but with longer-lasting effects.
While psychodynamic therapy may take longer than structured therapies like CBT, its enduring benefits make it a powerful approach for those seeking deep personal change.
f you are curious about psychodynamic psychotherapy and want to explore how it could benefit you, please contact me to schedule a complimentary 20-minute consultation. Together, we can discuss your goals, answer any questions, and start your path toward emotional healing and personal growth. I look forward to joining you on this transformative journey.