I am a qualified psychodynamic psychotherapist and hold a Masters degree (240 Credits - Distinction), awarded by the University of London.

Psychodynamic psychotherapy is a therapeutic approach that draws upon elements from various analytic therapies. This method is rooted in the belief that unconscious thoughts and perceptions, shaped during childhood, significantly influence an individual's current behaviors and thought patterns.

Origins and development of psychodynamic therapy

While Sigmund Freud's psychoanalytic theory laid the foundation for psychodynamic therapy it was, and continues to be, developed and refined by influential figures such as Alfred Adler, Sándor Ferenczi, Melanie Klein, William Fairbairn, Otto Rank, Donald Winnicott, and Peter Fonagy. These key practitioners and theorists have expanded the understanding and application of psychodynamic principles.

The main objective of psychodynamic therapy is similar to psychoanalysis, in that it aims to bring unconscious thoughts to the surface. This involves helping individuals recognise, experience, and understand deep-seated feelings, thereby enabling them to address unresolved emotional issues. According to this approach, painful memories and emotions are often stored in the unconscious because they are too overwhelming for the conscious mind to process.

In response, many people develop defense mechanisms—like denial or projection—to keep these difficult feelings hidden. However, psychodynamic therapy posits that these defenses can inadvertently begin to cause more harm than good.

What makes psychodynamic therapy different?

Psychodynamic therapy, while grounded in similar principles to psychoanalysis, is generally less intensive. It often focuses on addressing immediate and specific anxieties and concerns; although not always. Despite this difference in intensity, both approaches are effective in treating various psychological disorders, fostering meaningful changes in the patient's ability to make choices about their life and reducing anxiety or distress.

Core principles of psychodynamic therapy

Psychodynamic therapy aims to enhance understanding of current challenges and life experiences by exploring and reflecting on a number of key areas, these include:

• Bringing the unconscious to consciousness: helping individuals recognise hidden thoughts and emotions
• Exploring the influence of early childhood experiences: understanding how past events may be shaping current behaviors
• Examining inner conflicts: investigating opposing feelings and aspects of the self
• Identifying defence mechanisms: considering unconscious strategies used to avoid distressing feelings
• Analysing relational patterns: exploring dynamics in personal relationships, including those with the therapist

By doing so, therapists assist clients in identifying recurring patterns of behavior, understanding how they cope with distress, and developing less destabilising or destructive defence mechanisms. This self-awareness can lead to positive changes, helping individuals break negative cycles and move forward.

The importance of the therapeutic relationship

A key element of psychodynamic therapy is the therapeutic relationship itself. This relationship provides a safe space for exploring complex emotions and patterns, ultimately allowing for growth, healing, and the development of ways of living that work better for the individual.

My work is informed by object relations theory. You can find out more here:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/object-relations-theory