Psychodynamic Therapy and Approach to Psychotherapy
OPC College is dedicated to equipping students with the essential knowledge and competencies required for entry into practice as psychotherapists.
Central to OPCC is a focused preparation for practice within a coherent Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Model of Practice (PPMP).
Psychodynamic psychotherapy encompasses both a theory and a dynamic therapeutic approach. At its core, the theory suggests that adult behaviors, emotions, and conflicts are rooted in childhood experiences that shape the unconscious mind. Through Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (PP), practitioners explore the unconscious processes underlying clients’ present behaviors, resolve deep-seated conflicts driving current symptoms, and cultivate client self-awareness. This approach emphasizes understanding the impact of past experiences on present behavior and recognizes interpersonal patterns as pivotal to self-awareness and the cultivation of fulfilling relationships.
Drawing from psychoanalytic traditions and lifespan development, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy integrates insights from four early schools of psychoanalytic theory: Freud’s drive theory, ego psychology, object relations, and self-psychology. Furthermore, it incorporates relational therapy and the intersubjective approach, prioritizing the therapeutic alliance and relationship dynamics. Lifespan development, along with broader biopsychosocial and cultural perspectives, are increasingly acknowledged as crucial in Psychodynamic Therapy.
Psychodynamic therapy explores the intricacies of human functioning by considering the interplay between internal drives and external influences. It moves beyond surface-level behaviors to uncover clients’ perceptions and motivations, utilizing techniques to illuminate unconscious influences on personality and behavior. The goal is to empower individuals through heightened self-awareness, facilitating positive transformation and nurturing authenticity.
OPCC extends beyond traditional psychoanalytic focus to embrace a balanced, comprehensive, integrative, biopsychosocial view of assessment and treatment. It encourages trainees to explore both internal and external influences on mental and emotional development when working with clients. OPPC also focuses on the relational aspects within which healing and transformation occurs.
OPCC expands beyond traditional psychoanalytic frameworks to embrace a holistic, integrative view of assessment and treatment. Trainees are encouraged to explore both internal and external factors influencing mental and emotional development when working with clients. Moreover, OPCC underscores the importance of the relational context and relational dynamics, recognizing them as fundamental to the healing process.
Psychodynamic therapy often unfolds gradually, allowing clients the space to explore, express, interpret, and integrate insights and changes within the therapeutic relationship. Techniques such as free association, reflective listening, and interpretation are employed, addressing resistance, transference, countertransference, and navigating through challenging memories and present experiences.
Key competencies for psychodynamic psychotherapists include fostering therapeutic alliances, engaging in self-reflection, conducting assessments, formulating comprehensive case conceptualizations, and implementing effective interventions. Central to this approach is the recognition of the therapeutic relationship as pivotal to the healing journey.
Fundamental principles of Psychodynamic Psychotherapy include an emphasis on the unconscious mind, the enduring impact of childhood experiences, the significance of transference and countertransference dynamics, and the exploration of resistance and unconscious motivations. Distinctive techniques involve attending to affect, exploring recurring themes, discussing past experiences, examining interpersonal dynamics, and delving into clients’ wishes, dreams, and fantasies.
OPCC’s curriculum offers a comprehensive exploration of Psychodynamic Therapy, providing students with ample opportunities to deepen their understanding and hone their skills within a coherent practice model. Through engaging in case discussions, simulations, reflective exercises, and feedback sessions, students develop the necessary competencies for effective practice and integration.
References
- Berzoff, J., Flanagan L. M., & Hertz, P., (Eds.). (2008). Inside out and outside in: Psychodynamic clinical theory and psychopathology in contemporary multicultural contexts (2nd Ed.). Lantham, Maryland: Jason Aronson.
- Blagys, M. D. & Hilsenroth, M. J. (2000). Distinctive features of short-term psychotherapy interpersonal psychotherapy: A review of the comparative psychotherapy process literature. Clinical Psychology, 167-188.
- Gabbard, G. (2010). Long-term psychodynamic psychotherapy: A basic text (2nd Ed.). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Publishing, Inc.
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- Rudolfa, E, Russ, B, Eisman, E, Nelson, P., Rehm, L., and Ritchie, P. (2005). A cube model for competency development: Implications for psychology educators and regulators. Professional Psychology: Research and practice. Vol. 36. No 4, 347-354