Psychodynamic and humanistic therapy
Psychotherapy uses psychological methods to help people change thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. This lesson is for learning about psychology, not for diagnosing yourself or anyone else; if you are struggling, talk to a qualified professional.
Psychoanalysis
Freud's psychoanalysis aimed to bring unconscious conflicts into awareness. Techniques included free association, saying whatever comes to mind, and dream analysis. Therapists watched for resistance, avoiding painful material, and transference, when clients direct feelings about important people onto the therapist. Modern psychodynamic therapy is usually shorter and more focused.
Humanistic therapy
Carl Rogers developed client-centred (person-centred) therapy, in which the therapist provides empathy, genuineness, and unconditional positive regard. The therapist uses active listening, reflecting back the client's feelings, so the client can find their own solutions. The approach assumes people have a natural tendency toward growth.
The therapeutic relationship
Across many approaches, research finds that the quality of the relationship between client and therapist, sometimes called the therapeutic alliance, is one of the strongest predictors of good outcomes. Trust, collaboration, and agreement on goals help therapy work.
Flashcard
Saying whatever comes to mind without censoring
Check your understanding
A therapist listens carefully, reflects the client's feelings back, and offers acceptance without judgment. This is most characteristic of: