Psychodynamic psychotherapy (sometimes known as psychoanalytic psychotherapy) primarily focuses on the role of the unconscious and how our past experiences may impact the way we understand ourselves, and others, in the present. The objective of psychodynamic psychotherapy is to enhance self-awareness and to enable an individual, or couple, to have a greater understanding of why they behave the way they do, and therefore, feel more able to make positive changes in their lives.

All kinds of people seek out couple therapy. Some clients report feeling they are in relationships which feel emotionally dangerous or where communication has completely broken down. Sex and intimacy can also become an area of conflict, with one or both partners expressing sadness, frustration or anger about the quality or regularity of physical contact. Under these circumstances a sense of hopelessness about the future can easily develop leading people to withdraw further from those around them or to an intensification of arguments, demands or destructive behaviour. When children are involved, this can also heighten feelings of guilt and inadequacy which can feel overwhelming.

If this feels familiar you can contact me about the possibility of individual or couples therapy in North London today.

It’s natural to be cautious about starting couple therapy or to worry it might ‘stir things up’. Although the sessions can bring issues to the surface, it does not cause problems but rather creates a safe space where difficulties that already exist within a relationship can be observed and thought about. This can be profoundly helpful for couples who find it hard to talk about sensitive areas.