Therapist's Corner: The Influence of Psychodynamics

By Sarah Mudd, PLPC

Freud was the father of psychology, which brought about a new wave of thinking in the field of psychology. Many theories evolved due to psychoanalysis and their influence can be felt in the field today.

Two of the main aspects of Freud's theory include the interaction of conscious and unconscious thoughts and feelings. 

• Psychodynamics- the interrelation of the unconscious and conscious mental and emotional forces that determine personality and motivation, (Oxford Dictionary, 2016).
• Psychoanalysis- a system of psychological theory and therapy that aims to treat mental disorders by investigating the interaction of conscious and unconscious elements in the mind and bringing repressed fears and conflicts into the conscious mind by techniques such as dream interpretation and free association, (Oxford Dictionary, 2016).

Psychoanalysis is a lengthy process taking years to find the root of the problem, interpreting the meaning, and resolving the issue.  As a counselor, I feel that this was of understanding human nature is fascinating. By understanding psychodynamics, I am able to understand other theories better.  I feel that can be crucial to the way I conceptualize my client's and how to work best with them.

Psychodynamics helps us see that all behaviors have underlying meaning.  For example, I do my notes and research for clients, I do laundry at home. The meaning behind these behaviors is to properly treat my clients, take care of my family, and keep my household running smoothly. 

Clients' behavior also has meaning.  Being late, missing appointments, acting aggressively or crying all have meaning behind them.  The theory of psychodynamics helps us look deeper into the individual to truly understand what is happening. A missed appointment to a doctor could be a variety of possibilities: Being tired, not feeling like going, or not liking the doctor. By watching these underlying cues of others, we can understand them better than only hearing their story.

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Sarah Mudd is a Provisionally Licensed Professional Counselor at Unlimited Potential Counseling & Education Center in O’Fallon (MO #2016013189). Sarah is under the clinical supervision of Emily Kircher-Morris, LPC (MO #2012026754).