Psychodynamic therapy is a form of talk therapy that explores the link between your past experiences — often from childhood — and your current mindset. It is based on the principles of psychoanalysis and emphasizes understanding the unconscious processes that influence our daily behavior. This approach examines unresolved conflicts and symptoms that stem from past dysfunctional relationships and traumatic experiences. It helps individuals gain more insight into their lives, fostering deep personal growth and long-lasting psychological change.

Psychodynamic therapy involves a close working partnership between therapist and patient. Sessions typically focus on the exploration of your full range of emotions, thoughts and memories, some of which may have been repressed or avoided. Through this exploration, you can develop a greater understanding of your unconscious patterns, leading to increased self-awareness and healthier ways of thinking and behaving.

Psychodynamic therapy is often compared to other forms of talk therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). However, psychodynamic therapy puts more emphasis on discovering how past traumas affect your current mindset, while CBT focuses on helping individuals recognize and change harmful thought patterns. Both types of therapy promote increased self-awareness and help patients gain control of their mental health symptoms.

A 2017 review in the American Journal of Psychiatry concluded that psychodynamic therapy is as effective as other established treatment modalities.

A journal article published by American Psychologist found that patients who receive psychodynamic therapy maintain positive gains even after treatment has ended.

The American Psychological Association supports the use of psychodynamic therapy and describes it as a highly effective therapeutic technique.