What is psychodynamic psychotherapy?

Rooted in Freud’s psychoanalysis, psychodynamic psychotherapy evolved by incorporating the work of other influential theorists such as Klein, Winnicott, and Bion. It takes the view that when things are too difficult/painful for the conscious mind to process, our unconscious holds onto these feelings and memories, locking them away, but, like a pressure cooker, other symptoms manifest. A psychodynamic psychotherapist helps a client to identify and work through these difficult feelings so they can lead a more hopeful future. Focussing on the here and now, the therapist links past experiences to help understand current issues and reoccuring patterns (often linked to how you relate to yourself and others). This means the issue is understood and treated, rather than just the symptom. This way change is significant, deep rooted, and long term.