Charles W. Dithrich

Charles W. Dithrich is a distinguished psychoanalyst and clinical psychologist with a longstanding practice in North Oakland, California, where he has been a therapeutic pillar for over four decades. His expertise in psychoanalysis and psychoanalytic psychotherapy has enabled him to effectively treat a wide array of clients, including children, adults, adolescents, and couples, with a particular emphasis on neuroatypical, neurodivergent, and autism spectrum clients.

Dr. Dithrich embarked on his educational journey at Washington University in St. Louis, where he completed his undergraduate studies. He continued his academic pursuits at the California School of Professional Psychology in San Francisco, obtaining a master's degree and a PhD in psychology. His extensive training included a postdoctoral fellowship at Kaiser Permanente in Oakland, honing his clinical skills and leading to his licensure as a psychologist in California in 1978.

Dr. Dithrich established his private practice in San Francisco and Oakland shortly after obtaining his license. By 1980, he focused solely on his North Oakland location, where he has since developed a robust practice known for its compassionate and insightful therapeutic interventions. Beyond his private practice, he has significantly contributed to the field through various consulting and supervisory roles at prestigious medical and psychological institutions across the Bay Area.

Dr. Charles W. Dithrich, PhD is actively involved with the Psychoanalytic Institute of Northern California (PINC) in San Francisco, where he serves as a core faculty member and supervising analyst. His role at PINC involves educating and mentoring emerging psychoanalysts, with a curriculum that includes in-depth studies of psychoanalytic theories from Winnicott to Bion and innovative explorations into the psychoanalysis of dreaming. His dedication to psychoanalytic education is driven by a commitment to enriching psychoanalysis's theoretical and practical applications.

As a scholar, Dr. Dithrich has contributed extensively to the psychoanalytic literature, authoring numerous papers and presenting at international psychoanalytic conferences. His research focuses on developing and refining therapeutic approaches to complex psychological disorders, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of psychoanalytic interventions and broadening the understanding of mental health professionals.

Music plays a significant role in Dr. Dithrich’s life and therapeutic approach. An accomplished musician, he is proficient in playing the kamale n'goni, a 16-string harp from West Africa. This passion for music is integrated into his psychoanalytic practice, providing a unique therapeutic modality that utilizes the healing aspects of musical expression to facilitate deeper emotional connections and therapeutic breakthroughs. His performances, including appearances at the Monterey Jazz Festival, have showcased his musical talent and underscored the therapeutic value of integrating arts into psychological practice.

His dedication to his patients marks Dr. Charles W. Dithrich’s extensive career, innovative contributions to psychoanalytic theory and practice, and unique incorporation of music into psychotherapy. His work continues to influence and inspire his clients and the broader psychoanalytic community, solidifying his reputation as a leading psychoanalysis and mental health figure.