Psychoanalysis

Psychoanalysis is a form of psychological therapy that was developed by Sigmund Freud, a renowned Austrian neurologist and the founder of psychoanalysis, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It is a comprehensive theory of the human mind, a method of investigating the unconscious processes of the mind, and a therapeutic approach for treating mental health disorders.

At its core, psychoanalysis seeks to understand how unconscious thoughts, emotions, and motivations influence human behavior. According to Freud’s theory, much of our mental life is unconscious, meaning it operates outside of our awareness, and these unconscious processes can shape our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in significant ways. Psychoanalysis aims to explore and bring to consciousness these unconscious processes, with the belief that gaining insight into them can lead to psychological healing and personal growth.

Psychoanalysis typically involves a close therapeutic relationship between a trained psychoanalyst and a patient, in which the patient engages in free association, a process of expressing thoughts and feelings without censorship or judgment. The analyst listens attentively and interprets the patient’s unconscious material, including dreams, memories, and fantasies, in order to gain insights into the patient’s inner world and promote self-awareness and understanding.

Psychoanalysis is used to treat a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, personality disorders, and relational difficulties. It is often considered a long-term and intensive form of therapy, with sessions occurring multiple times per week over an extended period of time. Sessions are typically conducted with the patient reclining on a couch as the analyst sits behind them. This can make it more possible to elicit unscripted, spontaneous thoughts and feelings in the patient.