Psychodynamic psychotherapy is a form of treatment that is based on psychoanalytic thinking and theories of mind, behavior and change. The focus of the treatment is to help people understand themselves, their emotional patterns, conflicts, how they relate and especially how this unfolds outside of their conscious awareness and how this shapes their lives.
Rather than focusing only on surface symptoms, this approach looks more deeply at how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are connected. Therapy often involves exploring recurring patterns in relationships which may include reoccurring themes or behaviors or feelings. Attention is also given to moments when feelings are avoided, pushed aside, or expressed indirectly, as these can point to important underlying themes.
An important part of the work is the relationship between therapist and patient. Over time, familiar patterns—such as expectations of others, sensitivities, or ways of coping—may emerge within the therapy itself. When this happens, it creates an opportunity to understand these patterns more directly and in real time, rather than only talking about them abstractly.
Sessions typically take place one to several times per week, depending on the needs and goals of the individual. The work may focus on present-day concerns, while also making connections to earlier experiences that continue to influence how a person thinks, feels, and relates to others.
