FAQ

What are you looking for in my application?

Clear, straightforward answers to the questions; answering in the space provided is fine; these questions will be elaborated upon in the evaluation

What if I am not sure psychoanalysis is the best treatment for me?

The best way to tell whether psychoanalysis is the optimal treatment is to proceed through the evaluation; this will provide the best understanding of how it can help you. Part of the evaluation is devoted to a discussion of psychoanalysis and other treatment options to help you make the decision.

What if I am on medication?

Many people in psychoanalysis are also on medication.

How often do I have to come?

Psychoanalysis at Columbia is conducted four times per week.

Where will my therapist be located?

Treatment takes place in the analyst’s private office or (less often) at the Columbia University Center for Psychoanalytic Training and Research in the New York State Psychiatric Institute in Upper Manhattan. Our analysts have offices in many locations throughout the city (upper west side, upper east side, midtown, downtown).

How is the therapist chosen for me?

Therapists are chosen based on who is available to treat a new patient, preferred location when possible, and the clinic director’s sense of the best match.

How can my child manage after-school activities and homework if he or she needs to come 4 times per week?

Children who need psychoanalysis are usually not getting the full benefits from many activities and often do not perform optimally at school. Despite the time demand, most children in psychoanalysis improve in their social life and school performance.

Why do parents need to be involved?

Parents are the most important people in a child’s life, and your participation and engagement in this serious enterprise is essential for its success. You have a great deal of information about your child to impart, and you can also learn a lot from their meetings with your child’s analyst.

Do parents get to find out what is happening in the treatment?

While your child’s privacy is very important, his or her analyst will be able to help you understand your child better and be more effective. This can occur without violating the confidential relationship between your child and his or her analyst.