In fact, the American Psychologist has cited evidence that psychodynamic therapy is just as effective as cognitive-behavioral therapy.
If you are battling a mental health issue, it can affect your quality of life and the loved ones around you. At SoCal Empowered, we specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental conditions. Don’t let a disorder prevent you from living your best, healthy life.
What is Psychodynamic Therapy?
Psychodynamic therapy, or psychodynamic psychotherapy, is based on psychoanalysis and psychoanalytic theories and techniques. The individual brings their true feelings to the surface to understand, experience, and resolve any issues.
The psychodynamic theory is based on what we think, believe, and feel is experienced unconsciously, or with the subconscious mind.
Certain feelings are too painful to face head-on, and defense mechanisms develop at an early age. Defense mechanisms are demonstrated when an individual engages in denial, repression, intellectualization, or projection.
The ultimate goal of the psychodynamic approach is to find relief caused by psychological pain. The individual is to become self-aware and recognize how much influence the past has on current behavior.
Linking current behavior to past events can take time, and a therapist could examine the following:
- The degree to which the individual is aware of or comfortable with his or her feelings
- Any feelings the individual has but doesn’t know about or understand
- How deep the psyche negative feelings are buried
- The physical or psychological effects from buried feelings
Techniques Used in Psychodynamic Therapy
Therapy focuses on certain techniques that are determined by the therapist. These techniques differ depending on the specific situation for each individual. Some of the most common psychodynamic therapy techniques include:
1. FREE ASSOCIATION
Free association is pretty much what it sounds like. The individual talks to the therapist about the first thing that comes to mind. Often, this results in speaking about what they feel the most strongly about without feeling the pressure to do so. By speaking freely, the individual creates an organic, trusting relationship with the therapist in a natural way.
2. TRANSFERENCE OF FEELINGS
Therapeutic transference is a concept of taking the individual’s feelings (anger, sadness, etc.) about a person and transferring them onto the therapist. Placing these deep, buried feelings onto another person allows the therapist and individual to explore them.
3. INTERPRETATION
Once the psychodynamic therapist has had enough time with the individual, they can begin interpreting underlying thoughts and feelings. The therapist helps the individual interpret newly conscious thoughts and how it can affect their daily life and mental health disorder.
How Long is Psychodynamic Therapy?
Since no two individuals have the exact same issues, an evaluation must be done to address every person’s problems. A clinical interview is usually conducted in the first few sessions to get an idea on length of time needed for therapy. The concept of this technique is always to feel better as soon as possible.
After the sessions are completed, the individual should be able to handle stress and life difficulties in a flexible manner. Interpersonal relationships are improved, as is productivity at work. In general, the individual’s mood is stabilized through improved insight with thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
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MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT IN ORANGE COUNTY, CA
Studies show the strength of the therapeutic relationship is the most significant correlation to a positive treatment outcome. Therefore, having a therapist you can trust and build a rapport with is extremely important. At SoCal Empowered, we are a family run organization with industry-leading mental health recovery professionals. We focus on meeting each individual at where they are, and we build our foundation from there.
If you or a loved one is battling a mental health condition, give us a call today. Your journey towards personal growth and healing can start with our licensed team of mental health experts.