Psychodynamic therapy (also known as psychodynamic counselling) is a therapeutic approach that embraces the work of all analytic therapies. While the roots of psychodynamic therapy lie predominantly in Freud’s approach to psychoanalysis, Carl Jung, Alfred Adler, Otto Rank and Melanie Klein are all widely recognised for their involvement in further developing the concept and application of psychodynamics.

What is psychodynamic therapy?
Integrative psychotherapist and counsellor, Jeremy Sachs (BA Hons, Dip.Couns) explains psychodynamic therapy: how the theory came about and benefits of the approach.

While it shares the same core principles of psychoanalysis, psychodynamic therapy is typically far less intensive - focusing primarily on immediate problems and attempting to find a quicker solution. Both approaches, however, are said to help people with a range of psychological disorders to make significant changes to how they make decisions and interact with others.

The benefits of psychodynamic therapy
The psychodynamic approach is designed to help individuals with a wide range of problems, though is generally more effective in treating specific issues, such as anxiety, addiction and eating disorders. Primarily used to treat depression, psychodynamic therapy can be particularly beneficial for those who have lost meaning in their lives or have difficulty forming or maintaining personal relationships.

While suitable for everyone, it is said that there is a certain type of individual who responds particularly well to the approach, and benefits more than others. Typically, these types of individuals have a genuine interest in exploring themselves and seeking self-knowledge, as well as relieving symptoms. They will have the capacity for self-reflection, and a natural curiosity for their internal life and their behaviours.