Frequently used by psychoanalysts, counsellors and therapists, psychoanalytic therapy is based upon theories developed by Sigmund Freud.
It deals with the unconscious mind and how our thoughts impact upon our behaviour. During psychoanalytic therapy treatment, your counsellor may delve back into your childhood looking at events that took place then and examining whether or not they are contributing to your actions now. Most of the time, your therapist will ask you to talk and will listen carefully, making notes along the way.
They will then analyse their notes, looking for patterns that may be causing your present state of mind and possibly adding to your mental illness or problematic behaviour. Psychoanalytic therapists also use techniques such as dream interpretation, free association and observing your feelings and natural defences.
Providing you with a safe, secure and non-judgmental environment in which to talk freely about your actions and feelings or difficulties, your therapist will encourage you to share your thoughts, using psychoanalytic therapy as a beneficial instrument. In time this will lead to emotional growth and reduction of symptoms.
If you would like us to put you in touch with a therapist that makes use of psychoanalytic therapy, fill in the form below. We will identify a practitioner that is suitable for you and who will be able to assist.