How I Work
I help people understand themselves better by exploring their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, especially the ones that might come from their unconscious mind.
Here’s how it works:
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Talking Freely: In sessions, the person is encouraged to talk openly about whatever comes to mind—dreams, memories, feelings, or random thoughts. This is called free association, and it helps uncover patterns or hidden feelings.
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Exploring the Past: Psychoanalysts believe that our early experiences, especially with caregivers, shape who we are. By looking at these past relationships, I help people understand how these experiences might still affect them today.
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Looking for Patterns: I pay attention to recurring themes or conflicts, like self-doubt or struggles in relationships, and help connect them to deeper, unconscious issues.
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Understanding Defenses: Sometimes, we have defense mechanisms (like denial or avoidance) to protect us from painful feelings. I can gently helps the person recognize these defenses and understand why they’re there.
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Building Insight: Over time, the person gains insight into why they feel or act a certain way. This understanding can lead to meaningful changes, like breaking old patterns or feeling more at peace.
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The Relationship Itself: The connection between the patient and the psychoanalyst (called the therapeutic relationship) often mirrors the person's other relationships. Exploring this dynamic can give the client powerful insights into how they relate to others.It’s a process that unfolds over time and goes deep into the “why” behind things, aiming for long-lasting emotional growth.
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Psychotherapy
Psychoanalytic psychotherapy is a form of talk therapy that focuses on understanding the deeper, often unconscious, parts of our minds. At its heart, it’s about exploring how our past experiences, especially those from childhood, shape who we are today. Think of it as a journey to uncover hidden patterns in our thoughts, feelings, and relationships.Have you ever wondered why certain situations trigger strong emotions, or why you repeat behaviours that don’t feel good? These patterns often stem from unconscious influences that psychoanalytic psychotherapy helps bring to light. By understanding these underlying forces, you can make sense of your reactions and create space for change.Unlike other therapies that may focus on quick solutions, psychoanalytic psychotherapy takes its time. Sessions are often open-ended, giving you the freedom to speak your mind without judgment. Together, you and your therapist explore recurring themes, dreams, memories, and even the dynamics of your relationship with the therapist. This is because the therapeutic relationship itself can offer valuable insights into how you relate to others in the world.This therapy is rooted in the belief that self-awareness leads to healing and growth. It’s not just about solving immediate problems but also about fostering a deeper understanding of yourself. Over time, this process can help you feel more connected to yourself, your emotions, and the people around you.Psychoanalytic psychotherapy is especially helpful for those dealing with long-standing emotional difficulties, relationship struggles, or feelings of being stuck. It’s also for anyone curious about understanding themselves more deeply. If you’re looking for a therapy that delves beneath the surface and offers lasting insights, this could be the approach for you.
