Psychodynamic Therapy


People try everything that they can to solve their difficulties on their own before calling a therapist. When your own efforts at self-help aren't enough, it's often because something on the inside is getting in your way that either you don't realize or is difficult to change.

I help create a comfortable, interactive and trusting relationship where troubling and sensitive issues can be safely explored and understood together. I will share my thoughts and ideas about what has led to or contributes to your difficulties and together we’ll determine if how I’m thinking is useful.

It takes courage to look at yourself more deeply. I bring intelligence, compassion, and humor alongside a flexible, practical approach. My aim is to help you improve the aspects of your emotional life that are interfering with your happiness or success.

What Problems Do I Treat?
I often work with professionals who have achieved some degree of outward success but nonetheless struggle with their mood, self-esteem or have difficulty with close relationships.

I have successfully helped men and women grappling with issues such as:
  • Depression, loneliness and loss
  • Anxiety, worry and stress
  • Self-esteem issues
  • Obsessiveness and compulsiveness
  • Interpersonal conflicts and anger
  • Intimacy and relationship problems
  • Career-related frustrations and concerns
  • Internet addiction and sexually compulsive behavior
  • Life transitions such as marriage, whether to have children, parenting, mid-life issues, etc.
  • Pregnancy and postpartum issues, pregnancy loss
  • Infertility, third-party family building and adoption
Regardless of the specific issue, therapy generally involves helping you sort out the personal thoughts and feelings related to your difficulties - thoughts and feelings that can be confusing, conflicting, elusive and even hidden.

What Benefits Can You Expect?
The benefits of therapy of course vary based on your issues and your motivation. But generally speaking, in our work together we can help you:
  • Better understand yourself including your motivations, personality tendencies, strengths and vulnerabilities
  • Improve your relationships
  • Let go of troublesome patterns and past traumas
Whether short or long term, effective therapy will help you feel more alive and passionate within yourself, in your relationships and and in your endeavors. You may also develop a greater sense of clarity and purpose in how you think, feel and act.

Phone Consultation
If you wish, I can speak initially with you by phone at no cost to help assess your situation and determine whether it would make sense for us to meet for a consultation. If you have questions or would like to set up an initial phone consultation or appointment, please contact me by phone at 415-771-5671 or email at reneespencer@mac.com.

For information about Couples Therapy, click here.