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Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy
The Irish Psychoanalytic Clinic is open to adults in locations across Ireland, and offers low-cost one-to-one psychoanalytic psychotherapy sessions between a client and a senior trainee or experienced therapist. The Clinic is run by the Irish Institute of Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy and is open to anyone, without referral.
What is Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy?
Psychoanalytic psychotherapy is a form of talk therapy that helps individuals explore the deeper, often unconscious patterns behind their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Rooted in the belief that our early experiences shape who we are, this therapy creates a safe and supportive space to reflect on past and present relationships, inner conflicts, and emotions that may feel difficult to understand or express. By gently uncovering these hidden layers, clients can gain insight into the root causes of their struggles.
The benefits of psychoanalytic psychotherapy often unfold gradually, leading to lasting personal growth, emotional relief, and a stronger sense of self. Many people find that it not only helps reduce symptoms like anxiety or depression but also improves their relationships and overall life satisfaction. This approach is well-suited for those seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and a more meaningful connection to their inner world.
The Birth of Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy
Psychoanalytic psychotherapy has its roots in the work of Sigmund Freud, who, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, developed a new way of understanding the mind. Freud introduced the idea that much of our mental life takes place outside of conscious awareness and that unresolved feelings from early life can influence how we think, feel, and behave as adults.
While modern psychoanalytic psychotherapy has grown and changed since Freud’s time, it still values deep self-exploration and the healing power of understanding one’s inner world, early experiences and relationships.
Freud's work has been further developed by clinicians and theorists such as Melanie Klein, Donald Winnicott, Wilfred R. Bion, Thomas Ogden, and many others.
What can this kind of therapy help with?
Psychoanalytic psychotherapy can help with the broad and varied array of difficulties that accompany human experience, ranging from a general sense of disconnection, or lack of purpose, to specific conditions. Areas covered include, but are not limited to:
Anxiety and Fear
Depression
Family Issues
Stress
Bereavement
Shame
Loneliness
Parenting
Suicidal Ideation
Emotional Difficulties
Adjusting to Illness/Injury
Post-addiction Support
Relationship Difficulties
Transgenerational issues
Sexual identity / sexual issues
Feelings of emptiness and meaninglessness
Coping with the aftermath of trauma
Physical problems that may have a psychological origin
How might coming to therapy help me?
Attending psychoanalytic psychotherapy can be a deeply rewarding experience, offering a chance to gain a clearer understanding of yourself and the patterns that shape your thoughts, feelings, and relationships. Through this process, you’ll have the opportunity to explore unresolved emotions, uncover hidden sources of stress, and develop healthier ways of coping with life’s challenges.
Many people find that this therapy helps them build greater self-awareness, improve their emotional well-being, and find more fulfilling connections with others. Whether you’re seeking relief from anxiety, depression, or just looking to understand yourself better, psychoanalytic psychotherapy provides a compassionate space for personal growth and healing.
Who is it for?
Psychoanalytic psychotherapy is for anyone who wishes to gain a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationships, and their experience of the world. It is particularly helpful for those who feel stuck in patterns they don’t fully understand, struggle with anxiety, low mood, or self-esteem, or who are curious about the unconscious factors that shape their lives. This kind of therapy can offer not only relief from distress but also an ability to navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity and confidence.
To benefit from psychoanalytic psychotherapy, you should be over the age of 18 and able to commit to attending regular, in-person sessions—typically weekly with the same therapist. This approach to therapy takes time and usually involves a commitment of at least a year. It is a deeper, exploratory process, distinct from shorter-term therapies like CBT, aiming not just to manage symptoms but to bring about lasting emotional growth and insight. If you’re open to looking beneath the surface of your thoughts and feelings, this may be the right space for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to your psychotherapy queries here.
Start Your Journey
Book a Consultation
If you would like to know more or book a consultation with one of our therapists, please contact the clinic for further information.