What is psychodynamic psychotherapy?
The psychodynamic approach in psychotherapy is based on awareness of the significance of early relationships and how this often impacts us at an unconscious level, influencing our feelings, and which powerfully underpin our sense of self.
We develop throughout our lives in and through our relationships. Gaining a better understanding of the ways in which we relate, and achieving a greater sense of personal autonomy, are key aims of the psychodynamic approach. Psychodynamic psychotherapy can contribute significantly to a person’s mental and physical health, to their sense of well-being and to their ability to live a more fulfilling life.
Psychodynamic psychotherapy is a form of talking therapy rooted in the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are influenced by unconscious processes and past experiences. The treatment aims to bring these unconscious factors into awareness, leading to a better understanding of one’s emotions and behaviours.
What are the key concepts in psychodynamic psychotherapy?
Unconscious mind: A significant portion of our thoughts, memories, and feelings are not immediately accessible to our conscious awareness. These unconscious processes can influence our thoughts and behaviours without us being fully aware of them.
Early experiences: Psychodynamic psychotherapy emphasises the role of early childhood experiences, especially those involving parents and other caregivers, in shaping a person’s personality and emotional development. Patterns established in these early relationships can influence how we relate to others and perceive ourselves throughout our lives.
Defence mechanisms: We often develop defence mechanisms to cope with difficult or painful emotions and protect ourselves from anxiety. These defence mechanisms can be unconscious and may include repression, denial, projection, and others. Psychodynamic therapy helps individuals identify and address these defence mechanisms to gain insight into their emotional struggles.
Transference and countertransference: Transference occurs when a patient projects feelings, thoughts, and attitudes onto the therapist based on past experiences, particularly with authority figures or caregivers. Countertransference refers to the therapist’s emotional reactions and responses to the patient, which may also be influenced by their own unresolved issues. Both transference and countertransference dynamics are explored in psychodynamic therapy to gain insight into the patient’s emotional world and relationships.
Free association: During sessions, patients are encouraged to freely express their thoughts, emotions, and memories without censorship. This process allows the therapist to observe patterns and gain insight into the unconscious aspects of the patient’s mind.
Interpretation: The therapist plays an active role in interpreting the patient’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. By offering insights and interpretations, the therapist helps the patient gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their emotional struggles.
It’s important to note that psychodynamic psychotherapy typically involves a longer-term commitment compared to some other forms of therapy. The process of self-discovery and insight in psychodynamic therapy may take time, but it can lead to lasting positive changes in a person’s life.
