Psychodynamic therapy is a form of talk therapy that helps people understand and resolve deep-rooted emotional issues by exploring their past experiences. This type of therapy is based on the idea that our early life experiences, especially those from childhood, shape our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours as adults. Sometimes, these experiences leave emotional wounds or unresolved conflicts that can cause problems in our current lives, even if we’re not fully aware of them.
One of the main goals of psychodynamic therapy is to bring unconscious thoughts and feelings to the surface. These are the thoughts and feelings that we might not be fully aware of, but that still influence our behaviour. For example, if someone was criticised a lot as a child, they might develop a deep-seated belief that they’re not good enough. This belief can affect their self-esteem and relationships as an adult, even if they don’t realise it.
In therapy, a psychologist helps you explore these unconscious beliefs and emotions by talking about your past experiences, dreams, and current problems. Through this process, the person can start to see patterns in their thoughts and behaviours that they weren’t aware of before.
Once these deep-rooted issues are brought to light, the person can begin to understand how their past is affecting their present. For example, they might realise that their fear of rejection in relationships is tied to feeling abandoned as a child. By making these connections, the person can start to work through these issues and find healthier ways to cope.
Psychodynamic therapy is about gaining insight, or a deeper understanding of oneself. This insight can lead to emotional healing because it helps the person see things from a new perspective. They can begin to let go of old patterns of thinking and behaving that are no longer serving them. Over time, this can lead to lasting changes in how they feel and act in their daily life.
Should you require further information, please contact Mindwell Psychology on 03 5215 6262 as we specialise in this therapeutic approach.