What Is Psychodynamic Therapy?
Psychodynamic therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on how our unconscious mind affects our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Psychodynamic therapy focuses on bringing awareness to these unconscious processes to help you better control your present life. Psychodynamic therapy can help you explore your unconscious processes, identify specific childhood events that led to trauma symptoms, and help with emotional release to heal trauma. Psychodynamic therapy has been shown to be effective for trauma, depression, anxiety, and personality disorders.
How Does Psychodynamic Therapy Work?
Psychodynamic therapy works by creating associations of the unconscious mind with present-day manifestations. This therapy focuses on the thoughts or ingrained beliefs that lead to emotional suffering. Through therapy, you will learn to identify where your beliefs came from, and how they are affecting your life and begin to let go of the ones no longer serving you. Through psychodynamic therapy, you can find freedom to choose who you want to be, what you want to believe, and how you want to live your life.
How Does Contemporary Psychodynamic Therapy Differ From Classic Psychoanalysis?
Classic psychodynamic therapy is a long-term therapy that utilizes techniques such as dream analysis, free association, and transference. Contemporary psychodynamic therapy is more flexible and focuses more on current issues and thought processes.
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Is Psychodynamic Therapy Evidence-Based?
Yes, psychodynamic therapy is evidence-based, as a growing body of research shows the effectiveness of this therapy method for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and personality disorders. According to a study published in the American Psychological Association (APA), psychodynamic therapy had an effect size of 0.97 for overall symptom improvement, while antidepressant medication had an effect size of 0.31.
According to another study published in Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, psychodynamic therapy had an overall effect of 80% in reducing depression symptoms compared to no therapy. In another study published in Clinical Psychology Review, researchers found that psychodynamic therapy had an effectiveness of 70% for reducing anxiety symptoms compared to other therapies.
How Can Psychodynamic Therapy Help Depression?
Psychodynamic therapy can help with depression by:
- Uncovering hidden feelings: Therapy can help identify deep-rooted or suppressed feelings that may lead to depressive symptoms.
- Recognizing patterns: Some patterns in our lives may be subconscious. Bringing awareness to the underlying causes of these patterns can help us create new healthier patterns.
- Coping with emotions: All emotions are normal and human. Psychodynamic therapy can help you deal with the more difficult emotions.
Our best-rated therapists have undergone rigorous training in psychodynamic therapy, which is essential for understanding the complexities of this approach. Our therapists are committed to helping you achieve long-lasting changes and improvements in your mental health and overall well-being.
How Does a Psychodynamic Psychologist Study Human Behavior?
Psychodynamic theory was established by Sigmund Freud and later expanded on by other psychologists.
Psychodynamic psychologists study human behavior in the following ways:
- Childhood experiences: Our belief systems are shaped in childhood. Psychodynamic psychologists uncover the origins of these belief patterns to adopt new healthier patterns.
- Defense mechanisms: Therapists help you identify your defense mechanisms to develop an understanding of how you protect yourself from psychological pain.
- Relationship dynamics: Relationships are integral in understanding a person’s psychology. Relationships with family, friends, and the therapist can be assessed.
- Dreams: Dreams can provide important information about our subconscious mind.
Overall, psychodynamic psychologists employ a comprehensive and in-depth approach to studying human behavior, emphasizing the role of the unconscious mind, early experiences, and interpersonal relationships.
How Long Does Psychodynamic Therapy Last?
The length of psychodynamic therapy depends on several factors such as your willingness to participate, the severity of your symptoms, and your specific treatment plan. It’s important to discuss the length of therapy with your therapist. Your therapist will be able to provide more specific details about your counseling based on your individualized treatment plan.
What Are the Goals of Psychodynamic Therapy?
The goal of psychodynamic therapy is to help you understand the cause of your intense emotions, learn how to manage them, and in turn, heal the side effects of trauma.
Ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing with psychodynamic therapy? Schedule an appointment with our experienced trauma counselors at the Trauma Therapy Center in West Palm Beach today and take the first step toward understanding, managing, and ultimately overcoming your emotional challenges.