Psychoanalytic

Psychoanalytic theory, the theory that guides psychoanalysis, was first developed by Sigmund Freud. Psychoanalysis is a therapeutic treatment method founded in the study of the unconscious mind. Freud believed that people could be cured of any number of mental health issues by making conscious their unconscious thoughts and motivations, which provides insights into the root of the issue. The goal of is to release pent-up or repressed emotions and memories to lead the client to catharsis, or healing. Traditionally, psychoanalysis sessions will occur 4–5 times a week, with clients lying on a couch, and the therapist (or analyst) often sitting just behind and out of sight. The client will express their thoughts, dreams and fantasies, which the analyst will examine to help the client gain powerful insights. Think this approach might be right for you? Reach out to one of TherapyDen’s psychoanalytic experts today.

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Why psychodynamic/analytic therapy? The here and now psychotherapy relationship opens a stunning window into past, present, and future; into the deep wisdom of the unconscious; and into a creative flexibility that brings more and more wholesomeness, freedom, intimacy, and flourishing of the soul. I have doctoral and postdoctoral training in various contemporary analytic approaches, and I practice from a liberatory, feminist, relational stance.

— Aleisa Myles, Psychologist in Media, PA

In order to heal, you have to truly get to know yourself. Psychoanalytic therapy helps you understand yourself on a more intimate level. By exploring past experiences and relationships, in addition to what is going on for you in the here and now, we can gain greater access to all that is you. This kind of therapy expands your consciousness and opens up worlds of possibility. You will start to connect the dots between past and present, which can be both revelatory and liberating.

— Julia Lehrman, Psychotherapist in San Francisco, CA
 

In psychoanalytic therapy, we explore the layers of your mind and heart to uncover the roots of your struggles. Together, we'll explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, seeking to shed light on unconscious patterns that may be shaping your life. Through open dialogue and reflection, we'll work towards a deeper understanding of you and your challenges, paving the way for lasting change and growth.

— Rachel Fields, Psychotherapist

Under this umbrella falls many theories and approaches such as : object relations and modern psychoanalysis. Object relations is in a nutshell you relate to others including partners how your caregiver related to you. We all strive for perfection but it is really about being "good enough". Modern psychoanalysis is focusing on protecting from self attacks and self-sabotage. (cue Bestie Boys music). The therapist job is to have the client "say everything."

— Alicia Walker, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Montclair, NJ
 

I offer existential psychotherapy. Understanding your past and how it effects your present allows you to slowly bring change to your current world.

— Amanda Summers, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Vallejo, CA

This approach explore how the unconscious mind influences your thoughts, behaviors and feelings. I believe Anxiety and depressive symptoms are manifestations of deeper challenges that we will uncover together.

— Fatemah Dhirani, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York, NY
 

I work psychoanalytically with patients in order to more deeply explore and understand their internal world. Together we can create language for hidden, blocked, 'unthinkable' thoughts; name and reflect on unconscious conflicts; work through dreams; and build resilience.

— Sarah Farnsworth, Psychoanalyst in Los Angeles, CA

Modern psychoanalysts recognize the individuality of each person. We aim to understand the unconscious forces that may interfere with living fulfilling lives. By creating a non-judgmental space, the analyst helps people talk about feelings, thoughts and fantasies they may not have known they had. By accepting all these thoughts and feelings as valuable information, the analyst helps people learn to tolerate painful feelings and accept the disturbing and sometimes intriguing parts of themselves.

— Jennifer Coonce, Psychoanalyst in Brooklyn, NY
 

Carefully listening to the conflicts and desires hidden within your story, through which we can establish new ways for you to live and thrive.

— David Brown, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA

I approach therapy through a Contemporary Psychoanalytic Lens to understand what is being communicated through one's behaviors and understand how past experiences influence current relationships. As we form a relationship, I have found individuals develop stronger insight, aiding with a deeper understanding of self, and experiencing more lasting and sustainable relief.

— Jon Soileau, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Kansas City, MO
 

Psychodynamic Therapy focuses on uncovering unconscious patterns and unresolved conflicts from past experiences that influence present behavior and emotions. By bringing these to awareness, clients gain deeper insight into their thoughts and feelings, allowing them to break free from unhealthy patterns. This approach fosters personal growth and emotional healing by addressing the root causes of current struggles, ultimately leading to greater self-understanding and lasting change.

— Janella Dobbs, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA

I have a strong theoretical foundation in Jungian psychology and I am pursuing training to become a full psychoanalyst.

— Shea Lowery, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
 

I have a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology with an Emphasis in Depth Psychology, with many advanced trainings in Jungian Therapy, known also as Analytical Psychology or Depth Psychology. These include Certification in Jungian Studies, and ongoing Sandplay Training from the C. G. Jung Institute. I attend weekly educational seminars in psychoanalytic counseling with Jungian Analysts in the international and local communities.

— Rebecca Spear, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Pasadena, CA

Nearly 10 years of clinical experience using Object Relations Psychotherapy.

— Ross Kellogg, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA