Psychoanalysis: An Overview

Abstract

Psychotherapeutic interventions have been applied to a wide range of mental or psychological problems. Stressful life situations often compels people to seek help and support outside their social circle. Some seek this psychological support through indirect route (like Court order) or on their own will. Psychotherapy is carried on in many ways and Psychoanalysis is one of the most sought and successful therapy. Psychoanalysis is a system of therapy that involves Freudian concept of unconscious conflicts in the past but recent studies in this Psychodynamic approach has introduced insight and emotional understanding of inner conflicts. Psychoanalysis is much more than a quirky approach to understanding the human mind. It is a specific form of talking therapy grounded in a complex psychological functioning. People are able to feel safe as they explore feelings, desires and memories with the help of a trained and skilled analyst. Sigmund Freud was the founder of psychoanalysis and focused on the unconscious mind. Later Erick Erickson expanded on Freud’s theories and stressed on the importance of lifelong growth. Various other Psychoanalysts’ have revolutionised this therapy and it is considered a valid form of treatment for most anxiety and personality issues.