Psychodynamic therapy is a therapeutic modality that is based on the psychoanalytic theory developed by Sigmund Freud and later enriched by other psychoanalysts. This form of therapy focuses on the exploration of unconscious mental processes and the way they influence a person's behavior and emotions. Throughout this article, we will examine the theoretical bases, techniques and currents of psychodynamic therapy.
Theoretical Bases of Psychodynamic Therapy
Psychodynamic therapy is based on psychoanalytic theory, which postulates that a large part of our thoughts, emotions and behaviors are the result of unconscious mental processes. Freud was the pioneer in developing this theory, stating that the human mind is divided into three parts: the conscious, the preconscious and the unconscious.
Freudoian Unconscious
The unconscious, according to Freud , is the deepest and least accessible part of the mind, and is made up of desires, impulses and repressed memories that can influence our behavior significantly. In psychodynamic therapy, we seek to explore these unconscious contents through free association, dream interpretation and other methods to discover internal conflicts that may be affecting the individual.
Theory of the Stages of the Development
Another important pillar of psychodynamic therapy is Freud's theory of stages of development. According to this theory, a person's psychological development occurs through a series of stages, from childhood to adulthood. Each stage is marked by specific conflicts that must be resolved in order to advance to the next level of development. Psychodynamic therapy focuses on identifying and working with these conflicts to promote the mental health and emotional well-being of the individual.
Techniques of Psychodynamic Therapy
Psychodynamic therapy uses various techniques to explore the patient's unconscious, identify dysfunctional patterns of thought and behavior, and promote self-awareness and self-knowledge. Some of the most common techniques used in this therapeutic modality include:
Free Association
Free association is a technique in which the patient is asked to say whatever comes to mind. to the mind, without censorship or filter. Through this process, the therapist can identify thought patterns, repressed emotions, and internal conflicts that could be contributing to the patient's symptoms.
Dream Analysis
In therapy Psychodynamics, dreams are considered the "window to the unconscious" of the individual. Dream analysis allows the therapist to access the patient's hidden desires, fears and conflicts, providing valuable information for exploration and therapeutic approach.
Transference
Transference is a phenomenon in which the patient projects onto the therapist unresolved feelings and emotions that are related to their past experiences. In psychodynamic therapy, transference is used as a therapeutic tool to explore the patient's interpersonal relationships and unravel dysfunctional behavior patterns.
Currents of Psychodynamic Therapy
Throughout Over the years, psychodynamic therapy has evolved and diversified into different currents or therapeutic approaches within the psychoanalytic tradition. Some of the most relevant currents today are:
Classical Psychoanalysis
Classical psychoanalysis is based on Freud's original theories and maintains an intensive and long-term focus on therapeutic work. . This approach seeks to explore in depth the patient's internal conflicts through free association, dream analysis and interpretation of the transference.
Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy
Psychoanalytic psychotherapy is a shorter, more focused variant of classical psychoanalysis, which focuses on resolving the patient's current conflicts rather than exploring their entire life history. This therapeutic modality is usually more flexible in terms of the frequency of sessions and the duration of treatment.
Brief Psychodynamics
Brief psychodynamics focuses on addressing the patient's specific symptoms in a more limited period of time, generally between 12 and 20 sessions. This therapeutic approach focuses on identifying and working on the main conflicts that are affecting the individual's quality of life.
Psychodynamic Group Therapy
Psychodynamic group therapy is carried out in a group setting, in which several patients work in parallel with a therapist. This therapeutic approach allows us to explore interpersonal dynamics, relational patterns and the roles that each member of the group plays in the dynamics of therapy.
Conclusions
Psychodynamic therapy is a therapeutic modality rich and complex that is based on Freud's psychoanalytic theory and that has evolved over time in various therapeutic currents. Through the exploration of unconscious mental processes, the analysis of internal conflicts and working with repressed emotions, psychodynamic therapy aims to promote self-awareness, self-acceptance and emotional well-being in patients.
In summary, psychodynamic therapy offers an in-depth and holistic approach to the treatment of a wide range of psychological disorders and emotional problems, giving patients the opportunity to explore their internal world, understand their behavioral patterns and develop strategies for coping. change and personal transformation.