Psychodynamic psychotherapy is a form of talk therapy that focuses on exploring the unconscious mind, early life experiences, and internal conflicts that may contribute to emotional difficulties. The therapy is based on the principles of psychoanalysis, developed by Sigmund Freud.

The main goal of psychodynamic psychotherapy is to help individuals become aware of unconscious patterns of behaviour, thoughts, and feelings that may be affecting their current relationships and mental well-being. This type of therapy emphasizes the therapeutic relationship between the client and therapist, believing that this relationship can reveal important insights into how the person interacts with others and 
responds to emotions.

Through exploration of past experiences, unresolved conflicts, and recurring patterns, psychodynamic psychotherapy aims to help individuals gain deeper self-awareness and make positive changes in their lives.

When should you expect to experience change?

Psychodynamic therapy is often more long-term compared to other therapeutic approaches, and the time it takes to see change can vary greatly depending on individual circumstances. On average, people can start to see some changes within several months (around 6 months to a year), but more significant or deep-rooted changes can take a year or more.

Factors that can influence how quickly you see change in psychodynamic therapy include:

Depth of Issues: If you're working through long-standing emotional or relational patterns, it may take more time to uncover and address them.

Frequency of Sessions: Weekly sessions are most common, but the frequency could be adjusted. More frequent sessions could lead to faster progress, but consistent therapy, even weekly is key.

Commitment and Process: Psychodynamic therapy requires introspection, self-awareness, and emotional work, which can be intense. The process may feel slow, but the changes are often deep and enduring, that last well after the therapy itself has ended. 

Therapist-Client Relationship: The trust and rapport you build with your therapist also play a significant role in how effectively the therapy works.

While psychodynamic therapy can involve long-term work, it’s also about the gradual accumulation of insights and healthier emotional 
processing over time.