Psychodynamic Psychotherapy
What is Psychodynamic Psychotherapy & Counselling?
The principle upon which Psychodynamic Psychotherapy rests focuses on how the past can influence how we behave in the present. The Psychodynamic approach will focus on existing thoughts, feelings and memories and follow the thread which associates them to previous situations or relationships. A deeper understanding is gained through the analysis of the individual’s thoughts, feelings, dreams, images and memories. Psychodynamic Psychotherapy looks at and addresses how you are in your relationship with both yourself and others.
What does Psychodynamic Therapy/Counselling look
like in practice?
Within Psychodynamic Psychotherapy strict boundaries around time- keeping, the therapeutic relationship, session duration and frequency and endings are highlighted. The focus on maintaining these boundaries is seen as crucial as it allows for the containment and holding of the client throughout the work. Transference reactions are seen as an underpinning aspect of this work and can bring to the fore important features about the client’s past experiences. These transferences are often triggered by the lack of self disclosure by the therapist. As a rule of thumb the client will know little or nothing about the therapist. Transference is seen as a really important aspect of Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and the therapist will work with these ‘transferences’ within the therapy. Transference is a process brought about when the client reacts to the therapist ‘as if’ they were a significant person from the client’s past. Transference is where aspects of relationships from the past come into present interactions. Transference can include both positive and negative feelings including, like, love, caring, concern, dislike or hate. Another aspect of this type of work is ‘Counter Transference’ which highlights the therapists reactions towards their clients.
City Therapy is your trusted partner in mental well-being. Our Psychodynamic Psychotherapy services in Dublin provide a compassionate and effective approach to understanding and resolving emotional issues. We specialise in relationship counselling, fostering healthier connections and enhancing communication. Our dedicated therapists offer expert depression counselling in Dublin, empowering individuals to overcome challenges and rediscover joy in life. Choose City Therapy for transformative experiences in psychodynamic psychotherapy in Dublin.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is psychodynamic psychotherapy and how is it different from other therapies?
Psychodynamic psychotherapy explores unconscious thoughts, feelings, and past experiences that influence your current behaviour and relationships. Unlike more structured therapies, it often looks deeper into how early life patterns may be repeating in your present life.
2. Who can benefit from psychodynamic psychotherapy?
This approach is helpful for people experiencing relationship difficulties, recurring emotional conflicts, depression, anxiety, or those who feel stuck and want to better understand themselves. It’s especially valuable when you sense that past issues are affecting your present life.
3. What happens in a typical psychodynamic session?
Sessions tend to be open-ended and conversational. You and the therapist talk about dreams, memories, feelings, or everyday events that stand out. The therapist may gently point out patterns and unconscious themes that emerge over time.
4. How long does psychodynamic psychotherapy usually last?
The duration can vary widely depending on your goals, personal history, and the complexity of issues. Some clients engage in short-term psychodynamic work (a few months), while others may choose long-term therapy over years. Together, you’ll set expectations early on.
5. Will I need “homework” or things to do between sessions?
Unlike CBT which often has structured “homework,” psychodynamic therapy tends not to rely on formal tasks. However, you may be encouraged to reflect, notice recurring thoughts or emotions, and bring whatever arises between sessions into therapy for exploration.
