Psychodynamic counselling is a talking therapy that helps you understand the deeper patterns shaping how you feel, think, and relate to others. Many of these patterns develop early in life and continue to influence us without us fully realising. It's a therapy that creates a safe, reflective space where these experiences can be explored gently and at your pace.
My approach at Nest Counselling, is warm, relational, and grounded in the belief that meaningful change happens when we understand ourselves more fully.
Understanding What Lies Beneath
Psychodynamic counselling is based on the idea that not all of our thoughts and feelings are fully conscious. Sometimes we repeat old patterns, feel stuck, or struggle to make sense of strong emotional reactions. Therapy helps bring these hidden processes into awareness.
This might involve exploring:
- Repeated patterns in relationships
- Difficult feelings you find hard to express
- Early experiences that may still influence you
- Parts of yourself you may have learned to hide or minimise
Gaining insight doesn’t mean dwelling on the past - it means understanding how past experiences shape the present, so you can make new choices.
The Therapeutic Relationship
A central part of psychodynamic work is the relationship between you and your therapist. This relationship becomes a space where you can safely explore how you relate to others in your life. I will stay curious, reflective, and attuned - helping you notice patterns, feelings, and meanings that might previously have been out of awareness.
Over time, this process can help you:
- Understand yourself more deeply
- Feel more grounded and connected
- Develop healthier relationships
- Build emotional resilience
- Reduce anxiety, depression, and self-criticism
Working at Your Pace
It's not all about quick fixes. It’s about creating space to slow down, make sense of your internal world, and gently untangle the issues that may be keeping you stuck. Sessions provide continuity, safety, and room for reflection - particularly helpful if you’ve learned to cope by keeping things inside or tried to “just get on with it.”
Who Is Psychodynamic Counselling For?
People come to this type of therapy for many reasons, including:
- Anxiety low mood/depression
- Relationship difficulties
- Low self-esteem
- Loss, grief, or major life changes
- Feeling disconnected or unsure of who they are
- Patterns that repeat despite best intentions
You don’t need a diagnosis or a clear reason to begin. Many people seek therapy simply because something doesn’t feel right and they want to understand themselves better.
How Psychodynamic Counselling Can Help
It can be especially helpful if you're looking for:
- A deeper understanding of your emotional life
- A space where your experiences are taken seriously
- A therapeutic relationship that supports long-term growth
- Insight into why certain patterns keep reappearing
- A way to connect with feelings you may have learned to suppress
Insight and emotional understanding often lead to lasting change - not just symptom relief.
Final Thoughts
Psychodynamic counselling offers a thoughtful, compassionate way of exploring what lies beneath the surface. By understanding the roots of your feelings and behaviours, you can begin to create a more fulfilling and emotionally connected life.
If you have any questions about whether this type of therapy might be right for you, you’re welcome to get in touch. Nest Counselling offers a warm, confidential space for you to feel heard and understood.
