PsychoanalystA psychoanalyst is a mental health professional who has completed specialized training in psychoanalytic theory and therapy. Psychoanalytic theory was developed by Sigmund Freud and is based on the idea that our unconscious thoughts and emotions influence our behavior and experiences.
Psychoanalysts work with clients to explore their unconscious motivations, emotions, and experiences through a process of free association, dream analysis, and interpretation. This process is designed to help clients gain insight into their unconscious and address unresolved issues from their past.
To become a psychoanalyst, one typically completes an advanced degree in a mental health field such as psychology, social work, or psychiatry, and then pursues additional training in psychoanalytic theory and therapy. Psychoanalytic training programs typically involve personal psychoanalysis, didactic coursework, and supervised clinical practice.
Psychoanalysts can work in a variety of settings, including private practice, clinics, and hospitals. They often work with individuals who are experiencing emotional difficulties, including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and trauma. While psychoanalysis can be a lengthy and intensive form of therapy, it has been shown to be effective in treating a range of mental health issues.