Liberty Psychological Services

Psychodynamic means I care about the deeper parts of your psyche. I feel that these parts are the ones that are causing you trouble; not because they're 'bad,' per se, but because they're 'unconscious' and thus incompatible with life as you know it. When we're together, you can let your thoughts and feelings unfold; I rarely target specific symptoms or tell you what to talk about. You can share what comes to mind. Through this process, those unconscious parts come to the surface. We can even understand these as actual parts of your psyche, or self-states, into which you fall during times of stress. This happens to all of us, and it's a valiant effort to avoid angst and potential pain. But, the check has come due on this avoidance; it's time to expose ourselves to the feelings. Through this process of understanding and relating, we make adjustments to how you live and relate. This process hits at a deep, relational level, which means its effects have staying power.  

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All the while, the relationship builds. We use what you say and how we bond as the backbone for lasting change. Our regularity in meeting is intimate and you develop feelings and reactions to me, and I to you. You are encouraged to share your reactions with me. I offer you feedback about what it’s like to be with you, to know you, and to witness your defensive maneuvers in action.

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Despite my encouragement in letting your troubles unfold, I am an active listener. I speak plenty, and I’ll offer guidance and structure, as needed. Nevertheless, my attunement to you is critical in this process. I dial in and hold your emotions, so you don’t get overwhelmed. It’s like gently holding you in deep water; I’ll let go only when I know you can swim.

Through the psychodynamic process, we learn how your past shaped your present, what you did and didn’t get in life, and how now you can live unencumbered.