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Psychoanalytically oriented psychodynamic therapy
Understanding the why
- Thoughts, emotions, memories
- A listening relationship
Available places today by location.
Today's psychotherapists, locations and waiting times are displayed here. See the directory
Psychodynamic therapy, rooted in psychoanalysis, seeks to understand where your difficulties come from by exploring your thoughts, emotions, memories, and dreams. It focuses on the "why" rather than the "how to cope", within a listening relationship with the therapist. At Almaval, it is offered by psychologists and doctors in our team, at our centres in French-speaking Switzerland and, depending on the therapist, via video.
What is the psychodynamic approach?
The psychodynamic approach, or psychodynamic psychotherapy, stems from psychoanalysis. It is based on the premise that our current difficulties often have deeper, partly unconscious roots, and that we have the resources to uncover them. Putting these elements into words, bringing them to consciousness, helps us better understand what is playing out again, without cutting ourselves off from our past.
Contrary to popular belief, it does not necessarily involve a couch and a silent therapist. Depending on the person and their needs, the work can be gentle, active, or more confronting. The relationship with the therapist, including what it brings back (what is known as transference), is part of the work.
Who is it for?
Psychodynamic therapy can be suitable for children, adolescents, and adults, for a wide variety of difficulties: emotional distress, recurring relationship difficulties, questions about oneself and one's personal history.
It requires a certain capacity for introspection, patience, and the desire to understand “why”. It can sometimes resemble a personal search for the meaning of one’s journey.
Other approaches are generally preferred for people in acute crisis situations, with significant cognitive impairment or autism spectrum disorders. If you are primarily looking for concrete and rapid tools, the cognitive behavioural therapy may be a better fit for you. The initial interview is precisely meant to discuss this.
How does psychodynamic therapy take place at Almaval?
The initial consultation
You talk with the therapist about what brings you, your history, and your expectations. Together, you verify that this approach suits you.
The sessions
Therapy requires your active participation. You are invited to speak freely about whatever comes to mind: thoughts, feelings, memories, dreams (known as free association). The therapist listens, helps connect these elements, and identifies defence mechanisms, without imposing anything.
Adapted tools
With children in particular, play, drawing, puppets, or psychodrama can be used. Dreams, works of art, myths, and metaphors also help to gently address the origin of a difficulty.
The context
Beyond the individual, the work takes into account their environment and family history. Your well-being remains central. The duration depends on your situation and what you wish to explore; it is often longer than that of brief therapy.
Our psychodynamic therapists
Psychologists and physicians at Almaval who practice psychodynamic therapy. Their locations, languages, age groups seen, and acceptance of new patients are updated continuously.
Where to consult?
Consultations take place in our centres and, for some therapists, via video conference. See psychodynamic therapists by location:
Related approaches: cognitive behavioural therapy, systemic therapy, person-centred approach, psychology and psychotherapy, psychiatry.
Reimbursement
With a psychiatrist
Psychotherapy conducted by a psychiatrist is covered by the mandatory healthcare insurance (LAMal), under the usual deductible and co-payment conditions.
With a psychologist-psychotherapist
Psychotherapy conducted by a psychologist-psychotherapist is reimbursed by basic insurance upon medical prescription (prescription model, in effect since 1st July 2022).
To find out how to obtain a prescription, see Finding the right help or ask the question when making your request.
Frequently asked questions
What is the definition of psychodynamics?
Psychodynamics refers to a way of understanding psychological functioning, derived from psychoanalysis, which focuses on the partly unconscious forces behind our emotions, inner conflicts, and behaviours.
What is the difference between psychodynamic therapy and psychoanalysis?
Psychodynamic therapy is inspired by psychoanalysis. It is generally conducted face-to-face, and the framework (frequency, duration, manner of intervention) is tailored to each individual.
Do you need to lie on a couch?
No. Sessions usually take place face-to-face. The work can be gentle, active, or more confronting depending on your needs.
How long does psychodynamic therapy last?
This depends on your situation and what you wish to explore. It often takes place over a longer duration than brief therapy; the pace is reviewed with the therapist.
Is psychodynamic therapy suitable for children?
Yes, it can be offered to children and adolescents, using adapted tools such as play or drawing. The age groups seen by each therapist are listed on their profile.
Is psychodynamic therapy covered by basic health insurance?
Yes, under the LAMal: directly when therapy is conducted by a psychiatrist, and on medical prescription when conducted by a psychologist-psychotherapist. The deductible and co-payment apply.
Can it be done via video?
Yes, some Almaval therapists offer online sessions. The initial consultation allows you to verify whether this format suits you.
How to request an appointment?
Fill in the appointment request form: you can choose an available therapist or ask to be guided by our secretariat.
Physician or healthcare professional
Refer a patient
To refer a patient for psychodynamic therapy, the dedicated page brings together useful documents, the prescription, and timeframes.
In case of emergency or crisis, consult the page Crisis Reception Service or call 144.
