Psychodynamic and Humanistic Therapy

Introduction

• Goal of psychology: Understand the human mind and help people live happier lives.
• Two common approaches: Psychodynamic and Humanistic perspectives.
• Both aim to assist patients through therapy, but focus on different aspects.

Psychodynamic Therapy

• Focus: Unconscious mind including desires, urges, and unresolved conflicts.
• Beliefs:
  • Problems originate from past trauma, especially childhood, shaping motivations unconsciously.
  • Conflicts arise between hidden desires and societal expectations.
• Therapy Goals:
  • Bring unconscious wishes and experiences to awareness.
  • Help patients understand how hidden issues affect behavior.
  • Enable patients to recognize their true motivations, resolve childhood conflicts, and make conscious choices.

Humanistic Therapy

• Focus: Individual needs and potential.
• Beliefs:
  • People have the potential for growth and healthy life choices.
  • Problems stem from struggles in daily life, such as finding purpose or relationships.
• Therapy Goals:
  • Engage in dialogue about current feelings, goals, and choices.
  • Emphasize learning from mistakes and making better future choices.
  • Help patients become aware of their behavior and strategies for overcoming negative impulses.
  • Encourage understanding of thoughts and emotions leading to negative choices for future improvement.

Summary

• Both approaches agree therapy can enhance lives despite differing on issue origins.
• Other therapy types exist, but psychodynamic and humanistic are widely used.