ISTDP therapy in Melbourne offers a depth-oriented approach to emotional healing. It focuses on identifying and shifting unconscious patterns that contribute to anxiety, interpersonal difficulties, and long-standing emotional pain. At PsychologyCare, ISTDP is offered as part of our broader psychodynamic and integrative therapy services – always grounded in collaboration and safety.
Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP) is a structured, experiential form of therapy that helps people access and process core emotional experiences that are often defended against. It draws on psychodynamic principles but works in real-time to address the emotional roots of symptoms like anxiety, low self-worth, or relationship conflict.
Sessions often include focused exploration of how you respond emotionally – and defensively – in close relationships or times of distress. With a trained ISTDP therapist, this work can lead to greater emotional freedom, reduced symptoms, and stronger capacity for connection.
ISTDP may be suitable if you:
Many clients who come to ISTDP have already developed insight but seek a more emotionally active, change-focused process.
ISTDP sessions involve:
Therapy moves at your pace. While sessions can be emotionally intense, your therapist will check in and adjust to ensure you remain within your window of tole
ISTDP therapy is available from both of our Melbourne clinics:
You’ll work with a psychologist experienced in ISTDP, either as a primary approach or integrated with other modalities depending on your needs.
If you’re curious about ISTDP or wondering whether it’s the right fit for you, our intake team can help. We offer a free 15-minute consultation to discuss your needs and recommend a psychologist aligned with your goals.
Get in touch to book an intake call or learn more about ISTDP therapy in Melbourne.
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Clinical psychologist with 30+ years’ experience supporting adults (18+) with anxiety, depression, trauma (including sexual abuse), grief, life transitions, and low self-esteem.
Supports adults with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and life changes. Creates a warm, safe, and collaborative space where clients take an active role in their therapy.
