Approach
What is psychodynamic therapy?
A plain-English introduction to psychodynamic psychotherapy and how it works.
Overview
A talking therapy
Psychodynamic psychotherapy is a talking therapy. It comes from psychoanalysis, which began with the work of Sigmund Freud and was developed further by later approaches, including ego psychology, object relations theory, self psychology and relational psychoanalysis.
Unlike classical psychoanalysis, it usually takes place face to face or online, with sessions that are less frequent and more flexible.
It is based on the idea that our difficulties, and the patterns that repeat in our relationships, are partly shaped by things outside our conscious awareness. Understanding these better can help bring about change.
Key ideas
The main ideas behind it
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The unconscious
Our feelings, thoughts and behaviour are influenced by processes we are not always aware of.
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Early relationships
Our earliest relationships shape lasting ideas about who we are and what to expect from other people.
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Avoiding painful feelings
Conflicting feelings can cause anxiety, and we all develop ways of protecting ourselves from it, often without realising.
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Repeating patterns
Unhelpful patterns can repeat across different relationships. Once they are recognised, they can be understood.
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The therapy relationship
Relationships are a central focus, including the relationship between you and your therapist.
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Understanding supports change
Gaining insight into these processes can help bring about change.
A common question
How is it different from CBT?
Compared with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy places more emphasis on:
- emotions, and expressing them
- the ways we avoid painful thoughts and feelings
- themes that come up again and again
- links between past experiences and present difficulties
- relationships, including the relationship with the therapist
- fantasies, wishes and dreams
Sessions
What are sessions like?
Sessions last 50 minutes and take place in person in Cork or online.
I adapt how I work to what you need. At times the work may be more exploratory, and at other times more supportive.
Get in touch
Book a consultation
To arrange a first consultation, in Cork or online, please call, WhatsApp or text 089 661 3545, or send a message. Sessions are €65.