It began, of course, with Freud. Psychoanalysis refers both to a theory of how the mind works and a treatment modality. In recent years, both have yielded to more research-driven approaches, but psychoanalysis is still a thriving field and deals with subjective experience in ways that other therapies sometimes do not.
Psychoanalysis in Practice
Psychoanalysis has evolved and modernized since Freud’s conception of the practice, and many people engage in it today; It can be a powerful treatment for those wishing to delve into deep self-reflection.
Psychoanalysis involves meeting with a trained psychoanalyst a few to several times per week, where patients talk about themselves, their challenges, and whatever else prompted them to seek therapy. Patients aim to speak freely without censoring themselves, and explore subconscious beliefs, emotions, or desires with the analyst.
Psychoanalysis is open-ended and lacks predefined goals, in contrast to other therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy. The process often lasts years, or even decades.
The experience of psychoanalysis is well-suited to some personalities, but not everyone’s. It’s an intense process of self-examination and feedback from the analyst; patients may have to confront painful and undesirable feelings, thoughts, and impulses.
Explore More About Psychoanalysis
For a comprehensive understanding of psychoanalysis, read our complete guide: