Key Elements Of The Psychodynamic Approach

The psychodynamic theory aims to treat mental health disorders by looking at the interaction of conscious and unconscious elements of a client. By using these methods, the client is able to understand their repressed fears and conflicts as they are brought into the conscious mind.

The key elements of this theory include the importance of the unconscious mind and how this might influence one's behaviour and how this can be used to address mental health conditions. The theory states our behaviour is based on our past experiences, which is why tapping into the unconscious is important to understand all past experiences and repressed feelings and memories. In addition, our behaviour is determined by our genetic influence and our current context. Other key elements of the psychodynamic theory include the belief that our internal experiences may be related to our relationship with others, and that insight is more important than feelings or emotions. Insight is ultimately achieved when a client realises what is causing them distress and therefore

A counsellor may use active listening and look to respond appropriately. A counsellor may respond very little and leave silence in order to let the client fully explore their thoughts through free association. In addition, key counselling skills such as genuineness, unconditional positive regard and empathetic understanding are also important in psychodynamic practice as this form of counselling relies on interpersonal exchange between the counsellor and the client, so this helping relationship is very important during the sessions. As a result, it is important to uphold good basic counselling skills. Finally, a counsellor may use transference or counter-transference during these sessions, although they do not promote