Psychodynamic Psychotherapy

This is a psychotherapy which utilises psychoanalytical ideas and focuses on the unconscious causes of problems and conflicts.

Psychodynamic work seeks primarily to provide insight rather than to change behaviour.

It is true to say, however, that behaviour often changes as a consequence of having gained insight into the unconscious motivations for it.

This therapy helps clients become more conscious of inner dynamics, thereby increasing options for more adaptive living. 

While psychodynamic psychotherapy can span several years, it is also possible to undertake focussed pieces of psychological work which last in the region of 16 sessions. Where this is the case, Psychologist and client will focus on a specific area of difficulty and attempt to restrict their discussions to this.

The National Institute of Care Excellence (NICE) now recommends psychodynamic psychotherapy for depression as well as social anxiety.