Relational Psychotherapy
Relational psychoanalysis is a branch of psychoanalytic theory and practice that emphasizes the role of interpersonal relationships and the therapeutic relationship in shaping psychological development and emotional well-being. It emerged in the late 20th century as a reaction to the more traditional, drive-oriented models of psychoanalysis and sought to integrate contemporary relational and interpersonal perspectives into psychoanalytic theory and practice.
Here are some key features of relational psychoanalysis:
Focus on Relationships: Relational psychoanalysis places a strong emphasis on the significance of interpersonal relationships in shaping the development of the self and in understanding psychological functioning. It views the therapeutic relationship between the analyst and the patient as central to the process of therapy and as a vehicle for exploring the patient's relational patterns, conflicts, and attachments.
Mutuality and Co-Creation: Unlike traditional psychoanalysis, which often emphasized the neutrality and abstinence of the analyst, relational psychoanalysis emphasizes the mutuality and co-creation of meaning in the therapeutic relationship. Therapists actively engage with patients in a collaborative exploration of their experiences, feelings, and relational dynamics.
Exploration of Early Relationships: Relational psychoanalysis places particular importance on understanding the influence of early relationships, especially those with caregivers, on psychological development and personality structure. Therapists explore the patient's early attachment experiences and relational patterns to gain insight into their present-day struggles and conflicts.
Recognition of Intersubjectivity: Relational psychoanalysis acknowledges the intersubjective nature of the therapeutic relationship, recognizing that both the analyst and the patient bring their own subjectivities, biases, and emotional reactions to the therapeutic encounter. Therapists pay attention to the ways in which their own experiences and reactions may influence the therapeutic process and the patient's experience.
Integration of Attachment Theory: Relational psychoanalysis integrates insights from attachment theory, which emphasizes the importance of early attachment relationships in shaping interpersonal and emotional functioning. Therapists explore the patient's attachment history and relational patterns to understand their current struggles with intimacy, trust, and dependency.
Attention to Social Context: Relational psychoanalysis considers the influence of social, cultural, and contextual factors on psychological development and relational patterns. Therapists strive to understand the patient within their broader social and cultural context, taking into account factors such as race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status.
Emphasis on Empathy and Authenticity: Relational psychoanalysts prioritize empathy, authenticity, and emotional attunement in their interactions with patients. They aim to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where patients feel understood, accepted, and validated in their subjective experiences.
Overall, relational psychoanalysis offers a contemporary and integrative approach to psychoanalytic theory and practice, emphasizing the significance of interpersonal relationships, social context, and the therapeutic relationship in promoting psychological healing and growth.
About Holistic Psychotherapy & Wellness Manhattan
Kimberly Seelbrede, LCSW is a New York State licensed Psychotherapist, EMDR Practitioner and Couple Therapist with a private practice in New York City, Montana and virtually. As a wellness psychotherapist and holistic consultant, she has receive advanced, extensive training in Trauma Therapy, Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Somatic Experiencing (SE), and Nutrition & Integrative Medicine For Mental Health. She is passionate about honoring the exquisite interplay of the mind-body connection. Kimberly Seelbrede specializes in anxiety & mood disorders, trauma and women’s mental health. She brings over 20 years of counseling, coaching, and healing experience to her holistic practice and transformational work.
In addition to online therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma and relationship struggles, Holistic Psychotherapy & Wellness offers a wide variety of online services to fit the needs of busy professionals. New Yorkers often lead fast-paced and complex lives, which makes work-life balance and managing career, family and social obligations a challenge. Psychotherapy and wellness practices provides the support to help clients cultivate resources, resilience and enhanced emotional health, as well as uncover conflicts and obstacles that may interfere with having the life they desire.