One of the most counterintuitive truths about psychoanalysis: the struggle against it often makes it worse. Acceptance — clearly misunderstood — is one of the most powerful tools available.
What Acceptance of Psychoanalysis Actually Means
Acceptance does NOT mean:
- Liking or approving of psychoanalysis
- Giving up on getting better
- Thinking psychoanalysis is okay
Acceptance DOES mean:
- Acknowledging psychoanalysis without adding unnecessary struggle against the fact of its existence
- Allowing psychoanalysis to be present without fighting it into bigger problems
- Making room for psychoanalysis while still living your values
The ACT Approach to Psychoanalysis
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) uses acceptance as a core tool: instead of fighting psychoanalysis, you learn to make room for it while committing to valued action regardless.
The Paradox of Accepting Psychoanalysis
Many people find that when they stop fighting psychoanalysis and simply allow it, it loses intensity. The suffering of psychoanalysis is partly the struggle against it.