Psychodynamic Therapy

Psychodynamic therapy is one of the approaches I integrate into my work as an integrative counsellor. It focuses on understanding deeper emotional patterns and how past experiences can shape the way we relate to ourselves and others in the present.

This approach can be particularly helpful when difficulties feel long-standing, repetitive, or hard to put into words.

What Is Psychodynamic Therapy?

Psychodynamic therapy explores how early experiences, relationships, and unconscious processes influence current thoughts, feelings, and behaviours.

Rather than focusing only on symptoms, this approach aims to understand the underlying emotional patterns that may be contributing to ongoing difficulties.

Psychodynamic therapy has its roots in the work of Sigmund Freud, but modern psychodynamic therapy has evolved significantly and is relational, collaborative, and grounded in contemporary understanding of attachment and emotional development.

How I Use Psychodynamic Therapy In My Work

In sessions, I may gently invite curiosity around patterns that show up in your relationships, emotional responses, or sense of self.

This might include exploring early relationships, attachment experiences, or defence mechanisms that once helped you cope but may now feel limiting.

Everything is approached at your pace and with care, ensuring the work feels safe, collaborative, and grounded.

What This Might Look Like In A Session

You might notice a recurring pattern, such as feeling emotionally distant from others while also longing for closeness.

• When these patterns first developed
• What purpose they may have served in the past
• How they continue to show up in present-day relationships

Over time, this awareness can support greater emotional freedom and choice.

Psychodynamic Therapy May Be Helpful If You:

• Feel stuck in repeating relationship patterns
• Want to understand yourself on a deeper level
• Are curious about how your past influences the present
• Have tried short-term approaches and want deeper exploration

Psychodynamic Therapy Within Integrative Counselling

Psychodynamic therapy is one part of my integrative counselling approach. Alongside deeper exploration, I also draw on person-centred and CBT-informed approaches to support balance, safety, and practical coping where helpful.