LOOKING FOR HELP?

We'll help you find the right psychotherapist

Starting to think about psychotherapy? Here you'll find answers to questions you may not know how to ask. We explain what psychodynamic psychotherapy is, who it helps, and how to find a good specialist.

Find a psychotherapist → Read the introduction ↓

What is psychodynamic psychotherapy?

Psychodynamic psychotherapy is a talk-based form of treatment. It helps you understand the roots of emotional difficulties — often hidden in past experiences, unconscious patterns of relating, or defence mechanisms that once protected you but now get in the way.

Unlike short-term therapies focused on specific symptoms, psychodynamic psychotherapy takes a broader view — of your whole psychological life: emotions, relationships, the way you think about yourself and others. The goal is not just symptom relief, but a deeper change in the way you function in the world.

The method derives from psychoanalysis but has been adapted to contemporary needs. Sessions usually take place 1–2 times a week, face to face. Therapy can last from a few months to a few years, depending on the depth of the work and the goals.

The effectiveness of psychodynamic psychotherapy is scientifically confirmed. The Polish Ministry of Health recognises it (alongside cognitive-behavioural and systemic therapy) as a method with proven effectiveness in treating many mental disorders.

This is not counselling

Psychotherapy is different from psychological advice or coaching. It is treatment — it requires time, regularity, and trust in your psychotherapist. In return, it brings lasting change.

Who does psychodynamic psychotherapy help?

The method works especially well for difficulties that are long-lasting, recurring, or related to relationships and identity.

Emotional difficulties

  • Depression, low mood
  • Anxiety disorders and phobias
  • Panic attacks
  • A chronic sense of emptiness

Relationship difficulties

  • Recurring difficult relationships
  • Family and couple conflicts
  • Low self-esteem
  • Difficulties with closeness

Deeper personality disorders

  • Borderline personality disorder
  • Narcissistic disorders
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorders
  • Dissociative disorders

Difficult experiences

  • Grief, loss, separation
  • Childhood trauma
  • Existential crises
  • Burnout and loss of meaning

This list is indicative. If your situation isn't listed here but you feel you need support — book a consultation with a certified psychotherapist. The first meeting is precisely for determining whether psychotherapy is the right path for you.

How to choose a good psychotherapist?

Choosing a psychotherapist is an important decision. Here are five things worth paying attention to.

  1. Professional certificate

    Check whether the psychotherapist holds a certificate issued by a recognised psychotherapy association — PTPPd, PTTFP, PTPP, ISPHS, or others. A certificate guarantees that they have completed full training and undergo supervision.

  2. Experience with your difficulty

    Some areas require specialist knowledge: working with children, with couples, with people after trauma, with personality disorders. Ask directly: does the psychotherapist have experience with your problem?

  3. The first conversation

    The first session (or the first few) is about getting to know each other. Do you feel safe? Does the psychotherapist listen attentively? Do they ask questions that move you? These are important signals — trust your impressions.

  4. Practical conditions

    Location, availability of hours, price. All of this affects the regularity of therapy. If you have to travel an hour by bus at 7 a.m. — over time you’ll lose motivation.

  5. Ethical boundaries

    A good psychotherapist respects your boundaries, is discreet, and does not abuse the therapeutic relationship. If something worries you (personal conversations, unprofessional behaviour, unclear fees) — report it to the PTPPd Ethics Committee.

What to expect in the first sessions?

The first meeting is a consultation, not a commitment. Here's what usually happens.

  1. Initial conversation (45–50 minutes)

    The psychotherapist will ask about what brings you in, how you feel, and what your history is. It's a natural conversation, not an interrogation.

  2. Defining the goal together

    Together you'll consider what you expect from therapy. Is it about symptom relief, better relationships, a deeper understanding of yourself?

  3. Deciding on next steps

    At the end of the session, the psychotherapist will propose a plan: how often to meet, for how long, and with what method. You can take your time — no one forces an immediate decision.

Practical matters

  • Session price: roughly PLN 150–300 (the psychotherapist states it when booking)
  • Format: in person
  • Duration: 45–50 minutes
  • Payment: cash, bank transfer, or BLIK
  • Covered by the NFZ: some psychotherapists work under the NFZ — check when searching

Common patient questions

If you’re wondering about this decision — probably yes. A consultation with a certified psychotherapist will help determine whether psychodynamic psychotherapy is the right path for you, or whether another method or form of support might work better.

Usually from a few months to a few years. It depends on the depth of the difficulties, the intensity of the work, and your goals. First effects often appear after a few weeks, but lasting change takes time.

Yes, at any time. If you feel the therapy isn’t going in a good direction or you’re not a good match, you have the right to end it and look for another specialist. A good psychotherapist will respond to this decision with understanding.

Some PTPPd psychotherapists work under NFZ contracts (mainly in mental health clinics). Most practise privately. When searching, you can filter by billing type.

With private psychotherapists, usually 1–4 weeks. Under the NFZ, the wait can be much longer (several months). If the situation is urgent — look privately.

No. Contemporary psychodynamic psychotherapy is conducted face to face. The couch appears only in psychoanalysis (an intensive form, 3–5 sessions a week).

With a certified psychotherapist — no. There may be periods of emotional discomfort (difficult topics can be difficult), but that is part of the process. If you feel the therapy is harming you — talk about it with your therapist or seek a second opinion.

Contact the PTPPd Ethics Committee or the Disciplinary Court. You can write to biuro@ptppd.pl — we’ll point you to the right procedure. The anonymity of the reporting person is protected.