The psychoanalytic method, ‘the talking cure’, addresses problems of life through speaking. It strives to find singularity by investigating the intricate tapestry of one’s history, speech, and desires.

Psychoanalysts undergo rigorous training, or formation, which includes many years of personal psychoanalysis and clinical supervision whilst undertaking theoretical and clinical studies in psychoanalysis.

Psychoanalysis differs from manualised therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). Whilst these modalities can teach skills that aim to correct thoughts or behaviours, they bring the symptom closer to the desired norm. Symptoms are seen as mistakes to be avoided instead of as the bearers of truth.

In psychoanalysis, the individual is offered the opportunity to interrogate, historicise and subjectivise their symptoms and their distinct underlying determinants that operate within the unconscious, profoundly affecting their decisions and actions.

In the lacanian orientation, the practitioner is oriented to listening deeply to each person and the words of their unique speech. Just as slips of the tongue, bodily symptoms or psychological symptoms, dreams are privileged expressions of the unconscious governed by the laws of language that reveal deeper truths. As the work of analysis unfolds over time, the person develops a deepening understanding of life-long patterns of thinking, feeling and experiencing and how these are defined and regulated by one’s unconscious. 

Should you be considering whether psychoanalysis may be the appropriate approach for you, an initial consultation can be arranged to discuss your unique circumstances in greater detail.