Psychoanalysis is an in-depth therapy that explores unconscious feelings, conflicts, wishes and relationship patterns. Through regular sessions and open conversation, a person can examine how past experiences influence the present, including what emerges in the therapeutic relationship. It is often a longer-term process that values gradual insight and a detailed understanding of the self.
Frequent, regular sessions with open-ended conversation about thoughts, dreams, memories and the therapeutic relationship.
May suit a wish for in-depth, longer-term exploration of recurring emotional and relationship patterns.
It can require substantial time and financial commitment. Frequency, frame, remote arrangements and endings should be discussed clearly.
Evidence exists for psychodynamic approaches, but classical psychoanalysis is less extensively studied than shorter, manualised therapies.