Psychodynamic

Psychodynamic refers to a family of theories and therapies in psychology that emphasize the role of internal psychological processes—often unconscious—in shaping thoughts, feelings, and behavior. The approach traces its origins to Sigmund Freud and his psychoanalytic framework, which posits that many mental phenomena arise from unresolved conflicts rooted in early development and that bringing these processes into awareness can relieve distress. Over time, the term has broadened to include a range of theories and practices that maintain the focus on dynamic, internally driven mechanisms rather than only observable behavior.

Core ideas across psychodynamic thought include the existence of unconscious motivations, the influence of early relationships on current functioning, and the continual negotiation of internal conflicts through defense mechanisms. Therapy typically explores patterns of thinking and feeling, defenses that ward off anxiety, and recurring relational dynamics. Techniques commonly involve interpretation of transference and countertransference, along with aimed insight and “working through” of troubling material.

Therapy in the psychodynamic tradition often emphasizes the therapeutic relationship as a key mechanism of change, using it to illuminate patterns in mood, self-esteem, and interpersonal functioning. Compared with classical psychoanalysis, modern psychodynamic therapy is frequently shorter in duration, more targeted toward specific problems, and integrated with an emphasis on present-day functioning and relationships, while still valuing past experiences.

Evidence for psychodynamic approaches shows moderate effectiveness for a range of conditions, including mood and anxiety disorders and some personality disorders, with benefits comparable to other major psychotherapy families. Ongoing developments include ego psychology, object relations, self psychology, and relational and contemporary psychodynamic theories.