Fall 2026-91817-202690-PSYC711-33 - Psychoanalytic Theo & Ther

This course will introduce students to the foundations and contemporary practice of psychoanalytic and psychodynamic psychotherapy, with an emphasis on applying theory to real clinical work. Throughout the semester, we will explore major psychoanalytic traditions, including drive theory, ego psychology, object relations, self-psychology, and contemporary relational approaches, while examining how these perspectives inform diagnosis, case conceptualization, and treatment planning. Students will practice thinking dynamically about clients by considering personality organization, defenses, relational patterns, unconscious beliefs, transference, countertransference, and formative life experiences. The course will also focus on evidence-based psychodynamic interventions, the different phases of treatment, and how psychodynamic approaches can be adapted to diverse clients, clinical presentations, and treatment settings.