• Mental Health

What is Psychoanalysis?

Feeling happier after having a long conversation with a loved one can be comforting. Even as an adult, it’s essential to feel supported through challenges in life. Psychoanalysis takes having healthy conversations a step further. Originally developed by Sigmund Freud and further developed by Carl Jung and Melanie Klein, it’s a method that focuses on unconscious thoughts and emotions.

Psychoanalysis can help improve understanding more about oneself and perceptions of the world around you. Unlike other forms of talk therapy, psychoanalysis focuses a lot on past experiences, thoughts, dreams, and desires. 

How Does Psychoanalysis Work?

Not every psychoanalysis session is the same depending on the provider. The frequency of therapy sessions varies based on a person’s needs.

During a session, a therapist may allow one to lie back or relax comfortably on a couch while speaking to them. Be prepared to talk about memories and experiences you may not remember as well. 

For example, a therapist may ask about dreams, fantasies, and symbolism in someone’s life. They will ask follow-up questions about emotions and see how those contribute to actions. Treatment is typically from six to 12 weeks. 

However, the length of time varies depending on your needs and recommendations from a healthcare provider. A healthcare provider can also work with you on a time commitment that works with your schedule.

Methods for Psychoanalysis

A therapist may focus on transference — unconscious thoughts and emotions. This concept can be applied to relationships and perceptions of those around a person. A therapist may use transference to understand why someone may tend to put some people on a pedestal in their life more than others.

Another common concept explored in psychoanalysis is resistance. It can be unsettling to have to confront emotions you never explored before. Initially, some people may feel resistant to dealing with the intensity of emotion behind certain memories or thoughts. If a therapist notices resistance, they may consider a new tactic to keep you from shutting down.

A healthcare provider may also use dream analysis to better understand your unconscious thoughts and emotions. Using dream therapy, a therapist may make connections between how you dream and the actions you take in real life. Free association is the process of saying the first thing that comes to mind without judging your thoughts.

Who Does Psychoanalysis Work For?

A mental health diagnosis is not required to benefit from psychoanalysis. Age is not a limit to who can benefit from psychoanalysis. However, this treatment is especially beneficial for people with the following mental health concerns:

• Phobias

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Relationship issues

• Eating disorders

• Self-loathing

• Chronic pain

Psychoanalysis works well for people who have experienced trauma in their life. Even if emotional wounds heal, it can take longer for psychic trauma to completely go away. Psychoanalysis can help you come up with coping strategies to manage past trauma. 

If needed, a healthcare provider can also prescribe medications to help cope with mental health concerns.

How to Find a Therapist

If you have health insurance, check with your insurance provider for in-network mental healthcare providers who specialize in psychoanalysis. For those without health insurance, there are local organizations that may provide access to psychoanalysis.

Be sure to take your time choosing a therapist. It’s important to work with a healthcare provider you trust and feel comfortable speaking with. 

How much does therapy cost?

If cost is a concern, some therapists who specialize in psychoanalysis offer rates based on your income. There are also community organizations that offer counseling and psychoanalysis sessions. 

Where Can I Learn More About My Mental Health?

LifeMD can help you learn more about mental health conditions and treatment options. If you are not yet ready to reach out to a healthcare provider, we can help you take the necessary steps to help you focus more on your mental health.

LifeMD works with insurance plans that cover mental health services for at least 95% of our patients. Get started today with taking better care of your mental health.

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