Psychodynamic Therapy

What is Psychodynamic Therapy?

Psychodynamic Therapy is a form of talk therapy that helps you explore how your past experiences — especially early relationships — may be shaping your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours today.

It’s based on the idea that some of our struggles are rooted in unconscious patterns that we might not even realize are influencing us. By bringing these patterns into awareness, you can better understand yourself, make new choices, and create lasting change.

How Psychodynamic Therapy Works

In Psychodynamic Therapy, you and your counsellor work together to:

  • Explore your personal history and significant life events

  • Notice recurring themes in your relationships and experiences

  • Understand emotional reactions and where they come from

  • Bring hidden thoughts and feelings to the surface so they can be addressed

  • Develop insight into how the past impacts the present — and how to move forward

What Psychodynamic Therapy Can Help With

This approach is often helpful for people who want to understand themselves on a deeper level. It can support those dealing with:

  • Depression or persistent low mood

  • Anxiety and stress

  • Relationship difficulties

  • Unresolved grief or loss

  • Self-esteem and identity issues

  • Past trauma

  • Unhelpful behaviour patterns that keep repeating

What to Expect in a Session

Psychodynamic Therapy sessions are open and reflective. Your therapist may encourage you to:

  • Talk freely about whatever comes to mind (free association)

  • Reflect on dreams, memories, or significant life events

  • Explore feelings you have about the therapist (as a safe way to understand patterns)

  • Discuss important relationships, both past and present

Unlike some structured therapies, Psychodynamic Therapy allows space for deeper exploration, which can lead to gradual but profound change.

Why Patients Like Psychodynamic Therapy

  • It’s insight-driven — you gain a deeper understanding of yourself

  • It’s longer-term — allowing for gradual, meaningful transformation

  • It’s holistic — looks at both past and present for a complete picture

  • It’s empowering — once patterns are clear, you can choose new ways of living and relating

If you’d like to explore whether Psychodynamic Therapy is right for you, click here to meet our counsellors who offer this approach and see how to begin.