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Comparing Psychodynamic and Humanistic Therapy

Apr 23, 2025

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.