What is Psychoanalysis?
Psychoanalysis is a treatment method, a theory of human motivation, and a research approach to studying the unconscious. This three part psychoanalytic orientation was developed by Sigmund Freud at the turn of the 20th Century. It is through the transference relationship with the analyst and the natural resistances that occur in all of us that the progress of the treatment occurs. While many developments relevant to our society and our psychopathological problems are shaping psychoanalysis today, this three part orientation toward treatment, theory, and research remain essential for the work of a psychoanalyst.