Psychoanalytic therapy is based on the theories of Sigmund Freud. Freud is considered the forefathers of psychology, as well as the founder of psychoanalysis. He believed that people could be cured by turning their unconscious into conscious thoughts and motivations. The main aim of this type of therapy is to release repressed experiences and emotions. In other words, making the unconscious conscious. Psychoanalytic therapy is most commonly used to treated anxiety and depression, however, can be applied to several different disorders. This paper analyzes what psychoanalytic therapy is, how it works, and also gives examples of applications of psychoanalytic therapy.
Psychoanalytic therapy examines how an individual’s unconscious mind influences their behaviors and thoughts. The main focus of psychanalytic therapy consist of the experiences and individual had throughout early childhood. This is to see whether or not any childhood even has affected the individual’s life. Freud believed that individuals repressed any childhood drama in their unconscious and the thoughts and motivation in the unconscious dictate certain behaviors or thoughts. “This form of therapy is considered a long-term choice and can continue for weeks, months or even years depending on the depth of the concern being explored” (Counselling Directory, 2016).
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When Freud conducted psychoanalysis, he would have the patient lie down while he took notes about their childhood memories and dreams. Psychoanalysis can be a lengthy process and require several sessions per week. This is due to the defense mechanisms that make the unconscious inaccessible. Freud believed that the unconscious had to be broken into in order for those thoughts and behaviors to be exposed. A psychoanalyst can use various techniques in order to encourage the individual to develop insight on their behaviors. One common technique is called the Freudian slip. This is when unconscious feelings and thoughts are transferred to the conscious mind in parapraxes. Parapraxes are known as Freudian slips. In other words, Freudian slips happen when an individual says something they did not mean to say. A common example is when an individual calls a new friend by an old friend’s name. Freud believes that these slips provide insight into an individual’s unconscious mind. Another technique is called free association. This is when the patient talks about whatever comes to their mind. During free association, the therapists reads off a list of words and the patient response to whatever comes to their mind. Freud stated that several free associating patients commonly had traumatic flashbacks from free association. Thus, free association allows emotional experiences to present themselves.
Psychoanalytic therapy is commonly used by individuals with specific emotional concerns, as well as individuals who want to explore their mind. Psychoanalytic therapy is consisted a long-term type of therapy. It is less frequently used by individuals who are seeking a quick, solution focused therapy. Thus, psychoanalytic therapy is a gradual process. It is believed that psychoanalytic therapy is more suited for individuals who have problems with anxiety, sexual issues, relationship difficulties, or low self-esteem. Other problems that could be helped by psychoanalytic therapy are: shyness, sleeping problems, and phobias.
Overall, psychoanalytic therapy is seen as one of the most successful long-term therapy types. It consists of turning unconscious thoughts into conscious thoughts. Psychoanalytic therapy is conducted by having an individual talk about their childhood and different events that happened. This technique is commonly used on individuals who suffer from anxiety and depression, however, psychoanalytic therapy can be applied to several different types of individuals.
- Counselling Directory (2016). Psychoanalytic therapy. Retrieved on 23 April 2016, from http://www.counselling-directory.org.uk
