In psychodynamic psychotherapy

Psychodynamic psychotherapy

Psychodynamic psychotherapy is a form of depth psychology, the primary focus of which is to reveal the unconscious content of a client's psyche in an effort to alleviate psychic tension. In this way, it is similar to psychoanalysis. It also relies on the interpersonal relationship between client...

, working through is seen as the process of repeating, elaborating, and amplifying interpretations. It is believed that such working through is critical towards the success of therapy.

Interpretations (need a section dealing with that) are made when the client comes up with a "thing", be it written, a piece of art, music, verbal or some other form that was previously buried in the sub or unconscious mind. This "thing" is then used to say "this is an interpretation of such-and-such" event in the clients past. This interpretation may or may not be correct. It may be suggested by the client or by the therapist. It may even be a deliberate or subconscious deliberate mis-interpretation by the client in an attempt to keep the therapist away from the root problem.

Assuming that the "thing" gives rise to a reasonably correct interpretation, the theory of working through the client will then be able to apply rational thought and conscious awareness in order to overcome the mal-adjustment that has previously existed.