Psychodynamic Psychotherapy

What is Psychodynamic Psychotherapy?

Psychodynamic therapy focuses more in depth than some other therapies. In psychodynamic therapy, it is important to understand what has happened in the past and how it affects how we currently feel and relate to the world. For example, a client who almost never feels anger but often feels fear might spend time exploring her upbringing and why she is uncomfortable with anger. Psychodynamic psychotherapy contains many other types of psychotherapy under its umbrella. Two  types that are often utilized are object relations theory and self psychology. They do not have to be used independently and can all be used together.

Object Relations 

This theory looks at our relationships with others and how satisfying these relationships tend to be. Object relations focuses less on your instincts and more on what you want out of relationships, what you got out of relationships when you were a child and what you did not get out of your relationships when you were a child that you may have needed. It investigates how to have healthy relationships yourself and with others even if you did not have healthy relationships growing up.

Self Psychology

Self psychology investigates the role of self-esteem. Self-esteem is how you feel about yourself. When you feel badly about yourself it can make it difficult to make the kinds of changes you want in your life. It is often used with Object Relations Psychotherapy to help you develop a better sense of self-esteem along with a healthier relationship with yourself and others. Self Psychology looks at how much empathy you felt from early caregivers as a child and as a result how much empathy you are able to feel towards others now


What happens in the room during Psychodynamic Psychotherapy at Vantage Point?

Psychodynamic psychotherapy is an in-depth talk therapy that focuses on how you connect in your relationships and relate to the world around you. Our work would focus on patterns in your life and how you continue to notice these patterns repeat.  You will be encouraged to talk freely about anything that comes to your mind. You will also explore how your relationship with your therapist mirrors interactions you have in your life and examine the underpinnings of these dynamics. Connections will be made to help you identify patterns and work towards changing those patterns so you can feel seen, understood, have your needs met, and be assertive and active in your relationships and in your life. Feeling more connected in your life and reduction of unhealthy patterns leads to an  increase in  mental health.