Stepping into Adulthood: Understanding the Benefits of Psychodynamic Therapy
Becoming an adult can be a scary process. It’s not always the smoothest transition, especially when there have been big events that can interfere with the process. The past few years have been tumultuous, stressful, scary, and chaotic for all of us. Major life events can easily take a toll on our mental health.
When exploring therapy, we have many options with therapists, and different approaches to therapy. It can be a daunting task to figure out what's right for you. Psychodynamic therapy is one option under the talk therapy umbrella that is worth exploring. Here’s a deeper look.
What is Psychodynamic Therapy?
Dr. Sigmund Freud is one of the most recognized names in the therapy world. During his time, his psychodynamic approach was considered a gold standard. So, what is it?
Psychodynamic therapy works on the basis that talking about our problems can help us learn the skills needed to overcome them. By diving into your unconscious and gaining a better understanding of your thoughts, feelings, and memories, you can develop coping strategies to handle life stressors.
When you’re stepping into adulthood, this exploration of your childhood and the underlying causes of issues can be helpful.
What is Psychodynamic Therapy Used For?
Psychodynamic therapy has had positive outcomes when used to treat a variety of mental health conditions. This approach works to achieve a deeper understanding of internal thoughts and feelings in order to break cycles of negative behaviors and unhealthy patterns. It’s most commonly used to treat the following:
Anxiety disorders
Borderline personality disorder
Depression
Eating disorders
Pain
Panic disorders
Various phobias
Additionally, psychodynamic therapy can be helpful for relationships. It can be used to improve dynamics and coping mechanisms that can impact the direction of the relationship.
How it Works
During therapy sessions, you would work closely with a trained therapist to explore past childhood experiences and the feelings and emotions associated with them. This is not a quick process and can require a solid time commitment.
Sessions on the shorter end may be at least 25 sessions. On the longer end, they may last at least 50 sessions. The approach is very individualized towards each client and their specific needs. With trust and patience, it can be beneficial beyond traditional therapies.
Problem Solving
Simply talking about your problems won’t necessarily provide the fix. Through psychodynamic therapy, you will focus on developing problem-solving skills to reach positive outcomes. For adolescents transitioning into adulthood, this can be extremely helpful for becoming “unstuck” and overcoming barriers related to childhood events.
Big Picture Focused
Many therapy approaches focus on a particular area. Psychodynamic therapy works on a broader agenda. Sessions can revolve around something specific or a range of time/events. Therapy will look at all aspects of life to see what is causing issues with your mental health.
Reflect on Past Experiences
Psychodynamic therapy is heavily based on the idea that your childhood can have a significant impact on who you become as an adult. Whether you realize it or not, many past events play an important role in your behavior, attitude, character, and outlook as an adult. When you don’t realize it, you can’t fix it. Through this therapy approach, it can help with insight and reflection on those experiences.
Learn to Express Your Feelings
In all of the self-reflection, you’re going to gain a better understanding of your emotions and feelings. Once you have that understanding, you’ll be able to learn how to better manage and express them. Your therapist will help you develop the communication skills needed.
Next Steps
Beginning psychodynamic therapy is a relatively easy process. If you’re worried about adulthood, this could be an approach for you to learn how to make better choices going forward. Learn more about the process and to schedule a consultation, by clicking below and contacting me.