Warren S. Poland: My working definition of psychoanalysis is that it’s the disciplined study of whatever it is people do not want to know about themselves.
Psychoanalytic psychotherapy is a based upon a unique form of listening that is informed by the theories and practice of psychoanalysis. This listening is guided by the underlying assumption that our thoughts, feelings and actions are influenced by unconscious forces, to a much greater degree than we’d like to admit. The initial aim is to raise awareness of these forces and work through their significance in the safety of an authentic and professional relationship. Ultimately this process harbours the potential to liberate the patient from the deep seated blocks that lie at the heart of their difficulties and gradually relieve them of their silent hold. However, the analyst does not provide solutions but simply explores the patterns that have had a damaging impact on our lives. By uncovering these patterns it becomes possible to lift the weight of our history and begin to live a richer life. As awareness grows the individual realises their symptoms aren’t just arbitrary but harbour a deeper significance that is quite personal to themselves and has powerful links to their life story. With time the patient experiences not only symptom relief but an inner resolve that can become the foundation for real and lasting change. While this form of treatment can be a long and arduous the benefits can be long lasting and patients often say that this investment of their time, effort and money is completely worthwhile.