The Psychology of Mate Poaching: A Psychoanalytic Perspective Why Are We Drawn to the Unavailable?

Mate poaching, the act of pursuing someone already in a relationship, reveals deep-seated emotional patterns and unresolved conflicts. From a psychoanalytic perspective, this phenomenon often reflects our unconscious desires and fears, prompting us to seek validation in ways that can harm our relationships. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for fostering healthier connections and personal growth.

From Myth to Screen: Exploring Desire, Identity, and Connection in the Digital Age

The myth of Helen of Troy highlights the timeless struggles of desire and isolation. As we navigate the digital landscape, reflecting on these ancient themes through a psychoanalytic lens can help us foster genuine connections amidst curated identities and superficial interactions.

Femininity, Identity, Image: Reflections on the Art of Cindy Sherman

In the Cindy Sherman at Cycladic: Early Works exhibition, the artist challenges conventional notions of femininity and identity through her provocative self-portraits. This blog post explores how societal expectations shape our self-concept, inviting readers to reflect on the impact of external influences on their identities.

Embracing Loss and Mortality in Psychodynamic Therapy: Exploring Death through Celebrations and Psychoanalytic Theory

Exploring how psychodynamic therapy helps us face mortality, process grief, and find meaning in life’s inevitable endings.

The Impact of Parental Criticism on a Child’s Self-Esteem: A Psychoanalytic Perspective

The words we use with our children have a profound and often underestimated impact. A subtle, yet powerful observation is this: “When we criticise our children, we don’t risk them stopping loving us; we risk them stopping loving themselves.” This phrase encapsulates a crucial element of emotional development. […]

Erysichthon’s Hunger: The Myth of Emptiness and its Echo in Psychodynamic Theory

In Greek mythology, few stories resonate as powerfully with the theme of emptiness as the myth of Erysichthon. Erysichthon, a Thracian king, brazenly cut down a sacred tree belonging to Demeter, the goddess of harvest and fertility. In her wrath, Demeter cursed him with insatiable hunger, a torment […]

The Self on Social Media: A Psychodynamic Perspective on the True and False Self

In today’s digital world, the allure of social media is hard to resist. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok offer seemingly endless opportunities for self-expression, connection, and validation. Yet, beneath the surface, they can also amplify feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, and disappointment. Donald Winnicott’s theory of the “true […]

Working with Core Beliefs of “Never Good Enough” through CBT and Psychodynamic Approaches

Core beliefs shape our perception of ourselves and influence our thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. One common core belief many individuals struggle with is the feeling of “never good enough.” This belief can lead to feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and an insatiable need for external validation. In this […]

Recognizing Potential Mental Health Problems in Those We Care About

Mental health is an essential aspect of our overall well-being, yet it can sometimes be difficult to identify when someone we care about may be struggling. Unlike physical ailments, mental health issues don’t always have clear and visible signs. However, if we pay close attention, there are subtle […]

Navigating the Maze of the Mind: Insights from Psychodynamic Psychotherapy

If you feel lost in your emotional labyrinth, learn how therapy can guide you to healing and connection.