Psychodynamic Psychotherapy

Our experiences growing up may shape who we are, but they do not have to determine the person we can become. Recognizing the central importance of childhood and its impact on how we see the world, experience emotions, and relate to ourselves and others, psychodynamic psychotherapies hinge on the corrective potential within the client–therapist relationship and carefully attend to unconscious processes.

These therapists are skilled, patient listeners who hold a core belief in the importance of continuity in relationships. Comfortable with a great deal of complexity, the psychodynamic psychotherapist emphasizes insight, helps clients separate the past from the present, and identifies patterns of early attachment (secure, insecure, avoidant).

This approach brings us rich concepts like repetition compulsion (Why do I keep ignoring deadlines, even when the result far outweighs the momentary relief?), object relations, defense mechanisms (Why do I turn outward and blame others the second I feel vulnerable?), and projective identification. The goal of this work is to help clients move forward with greater clarity and fulfillment in their adult lives. And it works — the efficacy of psychodynamic therapies has been scientifically validated since the early work of Sigmund Freud, the father of modern psychoanalysis.