Psychoanalysis

Psychoanalysis is a treatment based on a theory of the construction and functions of the human mind. The purpose of the treatment is to allow the person to talk about their thoughts and emotions freely. The psychoanalyst listens carefully and, based on what they hear, presents observations on the person’s situation. The observations are meant to enable the person to become aware of the functions of their mind and to process and develop their personal problems.

Psychoanalysis deals with the unconscious part of the human mind, also known as the subconscious. The human mind contains vast amounts of unconscious thoughts and repressed emotions that affect our behaviour, thinking and mood. Psychoanalysis aims to access this unconscious part of our minds and to bring it forward. This enables us to better process our personal conflicts and issues. Knowing our unconscious part better increases our self-knowledge and improves our ability to face everyday challenges.

Psychoanalysis is often conducted as a long-term treatment, but the actual duration of the treatment always depends on the patient. The treatment is very intense and patients usually have several appointments per week for several years. Psychoanalysis is based on the active approach of the patient, and the analyst is there to listen and make observations if they are helpful to the patient. Psychoanalytic or psychodynamic psychotherapy is also based on the psychoanalytic theory.