Psychodynamic therapy is a method of therapy that originates from psychoanalysis. It assumes that the cause of mental problems are unconscious processes, events from early childhood and defense mechanisms. It is usually long-term, as it lasts from several months to several years.
Assumptions and tools of psychodynamic therapy
The psychodynamic trend draws on psychoanalysis initiated at the turn of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. by Sigmund Freud. It attaches great importance to the unconscious, which strongly affects the functioning and well-being of a person. During therapy, it is important to reach memories, desires, thoughts and emotions that are outside the patient’s consciousness.
For this purpose, the therapist uses m.in:
- free associations – when a person can say anything that comes to his mind, hidden thoughts and feelings are revealed,
- interpretation of dreams – they are a gateway to the subconscious, because repressed memories, drives and feelings are revealed in them,
- transfer analysis – the patient transfers patterns from important relationships from the past to the therapist,
- resistance analysis – avoiding certain topics can be an obstacle in therapy, but it gives the psychotherapist a deeper knowledge of the person’s problems.
Applications of psychodynamic therapy
Psychodynamic therapy is an effective method of treating various mental illnesses. It brings very good m.in effects. at:
- personality disorders, including narcissistic and borderline personality,
- addictions to psychoactive substances and behavioural addictions,
- eating disorders,
- depression, especially recurrent depression,
- anxiety disorders,
- difficulties in social relationships,
- traumas,
- DDA and DDD syndrome
