Psychodynamic theory, rooted in the work of Freud and later expanded by psychoanalysts like Melanie Klein, Donald Winnicott, and Bruno Bettelheim, has historically offered perspectives on autism that are largely outdated by today’s standards. However, it’s still worth understanding their contributions to the broader discourse on autism. Early […]

The British psychoanalytic tradition, deeply influenced by figures such as Melanie Klein and Donald Winnicott, places a strong emphasis on object relations theory. This approach explores how early interactions with caregivers shape an individual's emotional and psychological development. Klein introduced concepts like the paranoid-schizoid and depressive positions, which focus on the internalisation of relationships, while...

British and French psychoanalysis offer distinct perspectives: British psychoanalysis, shaped by Klein and Winnicott, emphasises object relations and early development, while French psychoanalysis, influenced by Lacan, focuses on the symbolic order and language’s impact on identity. As a trilingual psychodynamic psychotherapist, I’ve found that switching languages in therapy reveals unique insights, blending these traditions to...

Introduction Psychoanalysis, as a theoretical framework and clinical practice, offers a deep understanding of human psychology, particularly the unconscious mind’s influence on thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Developed by Sigmund Freud in the late 19th century, it focuses on uncovering unconscious conflicts through techniques like free association and dream […]

Starting online therapy can be a transformative experience, but it requires thoughtful consideration of a few practical factors. Here’s a breakdown of what new clients should know. Technical Setup Clients must ensure they have a stable internet connection to avoid interruptions. Using a laptop or smartphone with a functioning camera and microphone is essential, though...

Ghosting, while seemingly a modern phenomenon, taps into deep-rooted psychological dynamics that psychoanalytic theory helps illuminate. When someone is ghosted, it triggers primal fears of abandonment and rejection, often stemming from early childhood experiences. According to Freud, these unresolved conflicts resurface in adulthood, leading to intense feelings of self-blame and inadequacy. The lack of closure...