Austen Riggs is arguably the most purely psychodynamic residential program in the country. Its open, voluntary setting rejects locked-ward models in favor of patient self-direction within a deeply relational therapeutic community. The Erikson Institute produces significant psychoanalytic research and training.
Best for
Treatment-resistant psychiatric conditionsComplex personality disordersChronic depression and anxietyPatients who have failed shorter-term treatment
Modalities
Depth elements
Intensive psychodynamic psychotherapy (4x/week) is the cornerstone of treatment. Open, voluntary therapeutic community model emphasizes patient agency and self-direction. Staff include psychoanalytically certified clinicians (ABAPsa). Houses the Erikson Institute for education and research in psychodynamic approaches. Psychoanalytic fellowship training program. Research focus on psychodynamic diagnosis and treatment.
Populations served
Notable staff
Steven Ackerman, PhD, MBA, ABPP — psychoanalytically certified, IRB chair, John Azer, MD — psychiatrist with psychoanalytic fellowship, Marilyn Charles, PhD — former president APA Division 39 (Psychoanalysis)