Exploring Modalities: Psychodynamic Therapy
by Patricia McGuire, LPC-MHSP
4/14/2025
My therapeutic approach is integrative and eclectic, which means I utilize different therapy modalities (or processes) in my counseling work with clients. I believe treating each individual uniquely and holistically is key to the therapeutic relationship and path of healing. (Take a look at all my modalities here).
My primary modality is psychodynamic therapy, which is relational, emotions-focused, and depth-oriented. This means we will not only focus on observing here-and-now thoughts, emotions, and relational patterns, we will also explore early life experiences. This therapeutic process provides clients with new insights into their inner world and how unconscious motivations may shape their current experiences.
Psychodynamic therapy is based on the theories of Sigmund Freud, developed in the early 20th century, and has since been expanded upon by Alfred Adler, Melanie Klein, Nancy McWilliams, Galit Atlas, and others. It has taken on many changes over the years and is informed by ongoing research and other methodologies such as neuroscience, attachment theory, and existentialism.
“What’s going on under the surface?” is a question that a psychodynamic stance tries to answer. In this therapy, we seek to uncover underlying motivations and unresolved conflicts stemming from early life experiences. By examining emotions and the dynamics of relationships, psychodynamic therapy aims to foster self-awareness and personal growth.
The ultimate goal is to help clients better understand themselves and use that understanding to develop healthier coping mechanisms and improve their overall emotional well-being. The therapeutic relationship is the exploratory space to allow the unconscious to become conscious.
If you’d like to explore these ideas further, connect with Patricia McGuire here
