Psychodynamic therapy is a popular form of talk therapy, which emphasizes communication, clarification and greater self-awareness through conversation

Psychodynamic therapy includes many principles of psychoanalysis, but it places less focus on the client-therapist relationship and pays greater attention to the client and their perception of the outside world. Understanding how a person relates to the world and their relationship with others can provide explanations for many different maladaptive behaviors and thought patterns.

What is Psychodynamic Therapy Used For?

There are many different types of problems and mental illnesses that a therapist may treat through psychodynamic therapy. Phobias, eating disorders, anxiety disorders, and depression are some of the most common.

Psychodynamic therapy may be used as a basic framework for therapy while other techniques are introduced. For example, a therapist may rely heavily on psychodynamic therapy to help a client understand the underlying causes and contributors to their depression, and then help them correct these things through cognitive behavioral therapy techniques.

The Psychodynamic Process

Clients will be encouraged to speak freely about anything that comes to their mind during a session, which typically lasts between 60 to 90 minutes. A strong emphasis will be placed on discussing and analyzing the client’s wants, fears, desires, and fantasies, particularly those that may be subconsciously contributing to mental health symptoms.

People with depression and anxiety can find psychodynamic therapy both liberating and insightful; a therapist can help them learn how to talk through their own thoughts and emotions, make meaningful connections and draw conclusions that lead to actionable outcomes.

The Benefits of Psychodynamic Therapy

Psychodynamic therapy can help clients build self-esteem and learn how to improve their decision-making in relationships. An examination of their earliest experiences and emotions will enable them to form a greater awareness of their present self, as well as gain foresight into their current actions and thoughts.

Psychodynamic therapy can be short or long-term; the therapist will determine how long therapy should continue based off the extent of a client’s problems, the fluctuation in their symptoms and the emergence of new thoughts and feelings throughout the initial course of treatment.

Overall, psychodynamic therapy can be a useful approach for people who need to gain a healthier perspective about themselves and how they relate to others. By learning how to trace their emotions and actions back and identify causes, they will become more self-aware and be able to take more positive actions in the future.