Psychological therapies: psychoanalysis

PSYCHODYNAMIC

Psychoanalysis is a form of psychotherapy originally developed by Freud and is intended to help patients become aware of repressed unconscious feelings and issues by using certain techniques.

Repression and the unconscious mind

Psychoanalysis is based on the idea that individuals are unaware of the factors that cause their behaviour and emotions. These factors are in our unconscious mind from repressed childhood memories.

Sometimes known as 'insight therapy' e.g. people can gain insight into their past and the influence of unconscious behaviour. This helps them deal with their current problems better.

Free association

The therapist gives the patient the oppurtunity to express their feelings freely and allows them to speak their mind. It is designed to reveal repressed memories and gives insight into feelings and attitudes

Therapit interpretation

Therapists listen carefully as their patients talks, looking for clues and drawing conclusions about the possible consequences of the…