Psychodynamic Theory Essay

Psychodynamic theory (PDT) is a successor to psychoanalysis. PDT is an accumulation of therapies and approaches that have been developed over time. Psychoanalysis uses the concept that the unconscious mind is at the core of all our neuroses, and that these neuroses are very often rooted in childhood experience and or upbringing (Freud, 2003). Ego state theory defines the unconscious mind as ego's states, and uses these states to allow the patient to gain insights for themselves that are linked to the original problem they presented to the therapist (Emmerson, 2007). Historically sometimes the interpretation of dreams would also be used by a therapist, but the best understanding would often be gained from a very in depth knowledge of client's history even back to his/her child hood. Using the above techniques, a psychodynamic therapist helps a patient discover what motivates and the reason why certain behaviour/s occur (McLeod, S. A. (2007). In recent years, this approach to psychotherapy has been seen as antiquated. Often thought of as being a redundant approach to therapy. In a recent study however, it has been shown that the psychoanalytic approach still has it relevance today with positive enduring effects. In some cases it has proven even more effective than cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) (Gordon, 2010).

It will give the patient a good insight to what drives and motivates them and can lead them to new level of self-realization. The hypnotherapist on the downside would require potentially have to provide allot of input developing an element of control form the therapist, which could break report with a client lessening the effectiveness of the session (Arnold,