Psychodynamic psychology, sometimes referred to as “dynamic psychology,” is an empirically validated approach to the study of the complex interplay between unconscious and conscious processes, and the effect of those inner forces on outward behavior and overall mental functioning. Founded by Sigmund Freud and later expanded and adapted by Erik Erikson, Carl Jung, Melanie Klein, Heinz Kohut, Stephen Mitchell and others, psychodynamic psychology rests on the idea that people’s life experiences influence their unconscious and conscious beliefs and motivations—and in turn their feelings, behaviors, and overall functioning. Psychologists trained in psychodynamic approaches assist their clients in understanding the rich interplay that occurs between themselves and others, thus helping improve interpersonal skills and relational satisfaction.

Like other doctoral-level psychologists, those who are trained in psychodynamic psychology may work with a range of clinical populations, providing individual as well as family and group therapy. Each practitioner may take a slightly different approach to treatment and employ different techniques—from traditional psychoanalysis to talk therapy to dream analysis to expressive arts or even hypnosis—to help clients uncover unconscious feelings or beliefs that may be impacting their decisions, behaviors, and overall quality of life. They may work in private practice, community mental health centers, psychiatric settings, nonprofit agencies, and more.

Psy.D. in Psychology—Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Concentration (Post-Master’s)

• Offered in Westwood and Irvine.
• An accelerated, post-master’s program that can be completed in just two to three years, including internship. (Program is offered in a flexible format suitable for working professionals.)
• Psychodynamic Psychotherapy concentration curriculum was developed by California Graduate Institute, the world’s first independent school of professional psychology and a respected pioneer in teaching applied psychodynamic psychology. Students in this concentration gain essential diagnostic, therapeutic, and consultative skills as well as in-depth knowledge of psychodynamic theory and exposure to a broad range of dynamically based clinical applications—such as modern psychoanalysis, clinical hypnosis, dream analysis, play therapy and others—to assist the therapeutic process.
• Curriculum integrates the eight core competencies informed by the educational model of the National Council of Schools and Programs of Professional Psychology (NCSPP), and qualifies graduates to sit for the national licensure exam and licensure by the California Board of Psychology (BOP).
• Students may apply for the unique opportunity to complete their clinical training hours at one of our Chicago School Counseling Centers, two of Southern California’s largest and most well respected community counseling centers. Through our innovative apprentice model, students learn marketing and operations related to running a private practice, assist with building their own client case loads, and provide individual and group psychotherapy services. Each will graduate with a thriving client base already established as they sit for licensure and prepare to launch their careers.