What is Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy?

Many people experience mental or emotional problems at some stage of their life. Often these can be resolved without outside help. Sometimes, however, the difficulties persist and the person becomes stuck in repeating patterns and unable to move forward in their life. In these instances there may be a need for professional help to understand and get to grips with the problems. Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy offers a way of exploring the underlying obstacles to moving forward which may not be accessible to everyday thinking.

The person coming for help is encouraged to reflect on what is foremost in their mind – feelings, thoughts, dreams are brought to the session and looked at with the therapist. Links may be made between current issues and past experiences which the person is not consciously aware of. As the relationship with the psychotherapist develops, the individual gains new insights which can help to shift repeating negative patterns and allow the person to move forward.

At a preliminary meeting regular session times are established. The fee is agreed at the outset and is likely to be in the range of £50 to £80 per session.

Psychotherapy sessions are regular and frequent, at least once weekly in order to give as much continuity and support as possible. Psychoanalytic work is open ended, continuing for as long as needed.