Theories of Counseling - Psychoanalytic Therapy

[@drdemimoore]

I really appreciated this video the second time I watched it. When I originally watched it, it was prior to reading and prior to our class. At that time, it was a bit overwhelming. Even in class, I was finding myself taking a moment to piece it altogether. However, when I re-watched this video I gained a much better understanding. Dr Grande is extremely thorough in his explanations which really help. This video explains psychoanalytic theory in a clear way. I was very interested in the defense mechanisms as we spent a lot of time discussing them in class. They were very helpful in understanding the three levels of awareness such as the conscious, pre-conscious, and the unconscious. I also felt that even though my understanding of the Id, Ego and Superego were fairly well, this video provided much more understanding of each.

[@melissasmith3173]

I have read about psychoanalytical therapy and Freud's psychosexual stages many times before. However, I've never quite had it explained in this much detail. I really appreciated Dr. Grande going through each defense mechanism and explaining them. I can't say that I am completely sold on this type of therapy, but I am gaining more appreciation for it. Freud's belief that dreams can serve as a way to bring unconscious material to the conscious is really intriguing to me. Just like Carl Jung's concept of active imagination, I believe that dreams can act as a way to bridge the gap between consciousness and unconsciousness.

[@lauraleslie4240]

The power and innovative exploration into the mental health and our minds is impressive when cognizant of the time period in which this journey began. Psychoanalytic Theory has proven to be a foundation of which many built upon and expanded. This video was useful for explaining the theory in a concise manner and demonstrating how defense mechanisms are used and how, at times, defense mechanisms can be viewed as "positive," but when can actually be detrimental to the individual.

[@dHunter94]

This powerpoint video was a great supplement to the video “What is Psychoanalytic Theory.” This video allowed me something tangible to look at (as I am more of a visual learner) while I was listening to the voice over. Also, I really appreciated going over defense mechanisms a bit more in depth. It allowed me a better understanding of how one can go from the conscious to unconscious in an attempt to defend themselves. Additionally, the explanation of various techniques of this type of therapy such as free association and transference allowed me a better understanding of the various techniques. Finally, clarifying the difference between transference, where the client projects their feelings onto the counselor, versus countertransference, where the counselor projects their feelings onto the client, allowed me to best understand why transference can be beneficial whereas countertransference can be detrimental.

[@amandagerrick5407]

I found the slide about certain defense mechanisms to be extremely interesting. I had no idea that this many defense mechanisms, including so many more, even existed in the world of therapy. The use of explanations and examples helped me to better understand some of the defense mechanisms, such as sublimation. I didn't know what sublimation was before this video and I now understand, based on the example, that it is an idea which is considered unacceptable by society but the idea can be transferred and the energy of the person can go into a certain activity that is considered acceptable by society.

[@kikixiong6156]

This video really helped me a lot with understanding psychoanalytic therapy, since I was confused when I was reading the long chapter in the textbook. I watch this video every time I forget something and want to find a specific term’s explanation. Thank you very much for providing this opportunity!

[@integralstanley]

Todd Grande does a good job summarizing many schools of psychotherapy. The main point of many and perhaps all schools is that we can change in good ways. We are free to change our thoughts, emotions, actions, lifestyle, processions, friends, body, and even personality. There is something comforting about this potential freedom. And no, we do not require permission of a psychotherapist to claim this freedom.

[@briannagoitiandia9833]

Although I have learned about psychoanalytic theory before, I think this video gives a very clear and in-depth description of all the elements involved in psychoanalytic theory. I liked how the video explained that even though Freudian theory and psychoanalysis are not always favored, much of what we use in other theories of counseling come from psychoanalytic theory and are effective.

[@kaitlynsantola433]

This video provided a more in depth understanding of the theory. Dr. Grande's explanation of the defense mechanisms was very helpful. I appreciated the examples of the defense mechanisms so I have a better understanding of what to look out for in a counseling session.

[@suzgen7323]

The video is comprehensive and effective to concisely explain psychoanalytic therapy. The defense mechanism explanations were helpful particularly relating repression to the three levels of awareness; conscious, pre-conscious and unconscious. Understanding that the mechanisms that show up, clearly, are signals or pathways to uncover important information toward well-being. It may be better to use the word growth for this instead of well-being, since many of the defense mechanisms either stifled or "stuck" a person in development. The surrender to the conflict also seems necessary or imminent where attentiveness or more importantly reflection to the dreams, emotions, inner dialogue, sporadic triggers or aversions provide insight toward progress. I appreciated the extra coverage of transference and the reality of it's presence in the counselor-client relationship not only to be expected in psychoanalytic therapy but other therapies, as well.

[@alexandrajones3178]

I like the interpretation technique that this psychoanalysis focuses on. I think it is really important for a person to look at their situations, feelings, and behaviors from a different perspective with their counselor. This can be difficult for a person to do, they may not want to hear how someone else sees them, but it may be easier with a trusting counselor rather than a friend or family member. They also may not be able realize on their own how their behaviors are a expression or result of their conflicts.

[@jazzmynmolson3778]

I truly appreciate this video. I have gained a clearer understanding of Psychoanalytic theory. My understanding of what roles the id, ego, and superego play in dealing with conflict has increased. It was interesting to learn that these defense mechanisms actually help with conflict and the balance between the ego and its over use of the defense mechanisms can cause dysfunction. I've seen this being an issue with youth that I work with and this video gave me some insight.

[@andreanichols7950]

After watching this video I think I have a clear understanding of theory. Freud's theory is one of the first we all learn about, and although now some people do not agree with some of his views anymore they still were a great foundation.

[@wandamixon5360]

I found this video useful as a refresher. The organization of material and explanation of concepts aided in making this therapy concrete for me. The opinion section was helpful as well in seeing how the concepts are integrated into various modalities.

[@scottmartin7764]

It was very pleasing to find out that we don't need to be tied down to only one theory and that we can select something that best suits our style. I found that the defense mechanism Regression is very interesting, I understand that it often is found in clients with a history of abuse. Having a person regress to an earlier stage later in life must be so interesting to work with.

[@rbells5173]

Watching this video gave me a better understanding of defense mechanisms. I liked the examples that he gave after describing each mechanism.

[@corinne7324]

I found this video very useful for Mental Health Counseling. It refreshed my memory of the process of Id, Ego, and Superego, the Psycho-sexual stages, defense mechanisms and how truly important transference and counter-transference is within counseling. A lot of counselors disagree with Freud and his theories, but I still love Freud!! I believe his idea that unresolved unconscious conflicts are due to an event that occurs when one is a child. Some people don't agree that most problems are from something that happened in childhood, but i think its good to explore what one's childhood was like to better understand where they come from and how they were raised to better help them with their current emotions. I found it very interesting to learn when a person over relies on defense mechanisms that it can lead to panic and phobias. This is something I would like to further research! Great video

[@lauriott5329]

I had never thought about the defense mechanism Sublimation before hearing its definition on this video, but it hit home for me. Taking something you think or feel that may be deemed socially unacceptable and then channeling that energy into something productive. When I feel anxiety about something I will then over compensate in another area to help and forget about the feelings that were giving me anxiety.

[@virginiamurrey9139]

This video gives a great take on psychoanalytic therapy, I enjoyed reviewing the many defense mechanisms, because it gave good insight to each one and it was made very clear on their definitions. Knowing these mechanisms could be helpful in the counseling field; by having this information one could use it as knowledge to find key associations within a client. Once these associations are found, it would be easier to guide the session.

[@angelinastanton7996]

This video helped me to understand how all the defense mechanisms have a repression component, and how unresolved conflicts can turn anxiety into more serious forms of panic and phobias. I was interested to learn how sublimation can also possibly be a positive defense mechanism. Although psychoanalytic theory is not as popular as other theories used in counseling, I agree that valuable teachings in this theory can be successfully integrated in counseling. Examples could include the ideas of defense mechanisms, the unconscious, and unresolved conflicts. I also believe that there is a lot of truth that can be considered in the psychosexual stages, the Oedipus complex, and the Electra complex. I think that this can be considered despite the controversies related to these stages.

[@kimeeshareed-walker5687]

Both videos were very interesting and added insight. The defense mechanisms in the Psychoanalytic therapy video was most insightful. One area in particular, was the defense mechanisms. Compensation which is one defense compensation can be used in a negative and positive way. An adult dealing with distorted realities may engage in compensation by ignoring their real or perceived deficits by focusing on their strengths. This can become dangerous because it prevents a resolution. On the opposite side, Counselors use compensation as a helping strategy to unleash those deficits first. Then, focus on positive ways to better deal with or renew thought processes. As a counselor, it is important to be aware of this defense mechanism and understand how its being treated.

[@brittbell15]

Hearing an explanation for all the defense mechanisms was very informing. The different things that the mind is able to do in order to try and protect one's self is amazing but also can be very harmful, mentally and physically, as well.

[@karaannsullivan2363]

The video has shed light on some rather interesting concepts. I now understand that defense mechanisms can be misconstrued as "healthy" coping skills by those who are dealing with traumatic life events. Freud points out the dangers of prolonged use of defense mechanisms and their possible role in delaying internal conflict resolutions. As a direct result of this delay, there could be a deeper repression of feelings.

[@johnharrisjr2808]

This video gave me more insight on Psychoanalytic Therapy. I was surprised to see all the defense mechanisms that are used. Repression stuck with me because having our thoughts pushed from the conscious or pre-conscious to the unconscious happens on a daily basis without us paying attention to it. I also found it interesting when Dr. Grande said that when the ego overuses defense mechanisms it causes dysfunction. I have clients that I work with on a daily basis that are in denial and their lives are broken. I try to empower them by focusing on their strengths.

[@ashleymegahan5966]

I found Dr. Grande's explanation of this theory to be helpful in my understanding of the psychoanalytic theory. I was able to develop a better understanding of the defense mechanisms. I found that I agreed with Dr. Grande's opinion of the theory in that there are part of this theory that can be useful for a counselor to adapt, but other theories should be considered as well.

[@elisawhite3031]

I can see how psychoanalytic therapy may be extremely productive for clients that are ready to accept psychoanalytic reasoning; however, I can also see how this may not be helpful to other clients that may not be ready for this. A large part of psychoanalytic therapy is acceptance - "this is who you are, this is why, what are you going to do about it?" How many clients are going to be ready for change if they are in denial of what is behind their creation (defense mechanisms, childhood, id/ego/superego)? I'm all for psychoanalytic therapy, as the client and as a counselor. I do believe that we are all products of our upbringing, both positive and negative. I just feel like it will take a specific client to progress and grow from this theory. One that is willing to change, one that is self-aware, and one that is ready to acknowledge the roots of their own existence. As counselors, I think it will be extremely beneficial to know what to look for on behalf of those clients that do not fit in the aforementioned categories.

[@lizconnor1820]

In this video, Dr. Grande provides a great introduction to the practice and theory of psychoanalysis as a way of bringing about change to a client in the psychotherapy/counseling process. His discussion of defense mechanisms in particular, specifically, the overuse of and dependence on defense mechanisms to relieve/reduce anxiety, was a topic that I found most interesting. Previously, I did not typically view defense mechanisms negatively. Certain defense mechanisms discussed in the video such as denial, compensation, repression, and sublimation can potentially assist individuals to keep particularly traumatic experiences from becoming conscious or coming to the surface. For example, victims of pediatrician Dr. Earl Bradley (ranging from three months old to fourteen years old) experienced violent physical and sexual abuse. If these victims were successfully utilizing any of these four defense mechanisms later in life and did not wish to relive these experiences, I would think exploration of this traumatic material in the client’s unconscious through psychoanalysis could be more detrimental in the therapeutic process? Given our proximity to the area in which this occurred and our potential to become counselors in the area, I have to wonder how Freud would recommend moving forward with clients such as these.

[@tyonnabrooks748]

It as helpful to be informed that repression is in all defense mechanisms. Although defense mechanisms help reduce anxiety, counseling can be helpful for people to find alternate ways of reducing anxiety while also addressing their underlying concerns and stressors. The defense mechanism examples were really helpful for learning and also relating to other experiences for form more examples which help with really grasping the concept.

[@krystleclear14]

In working with adults with severe mental illness, I have seen them go through a variety of the defense mechanisms mentioned. The most prominent to me is the fixation. Many clients seem stuck in a child-like or teenage phase. Many react to situations as if a certain "maturity" was never developed for them. They appear fixated on a developmental stage as adults.

[@cherylchance904]

Thanks for sharing your experiences. For those of us not yet practicing in the mental health field, it can be challenging to try to understand exactly how we are going to apply all of these techniques, theories and strategies. Whenever someone gives examples such as this it helps me to gain more insight into how we are going to apply what we are learning in real life scenarios.

[@lizconnor1820]

I agree with Cheryl. You have provided a great example of a client who could benefit tremendously from psychoanalysis and psychoanalytic therapy! Individuals who are fixated in a particular developmental stage like you have described risk engaging in other defense mechanisms such as acting out, displacing their feelings onto weaker individuals (displacement), regressing back to that stage of development, disconnecting from reality (dissociation), and rationalizing inappropriate behavior.

[@jasmiraross2802]

I found it very intriguing that Sigmund Freud believed that "Dream analyzing" are ways to bring unconscious material to the conscious mind. Speaking for myself, I have dreamed things, and when it happens in the natural (DejaVu) I've thought to myself, "I've been here before." Or more importantly, when I have crazy dreams about tornado storms and floods, Googling the analyzed interpretation it makes sense when it tells me that the storm symbolizes my life in chaos, and the flood comes afterwards to cleanse and bring me a new start. Most of the time when people realize that things are spinning out of control for them, their conscious thoughts are usually on "How can I get this under submission (control)?, What can I do to make it better?". The thoughts are never really on what the reality is, "my life is out of control, this is a mess", that is a defense mechanism (denial). This video provided great insight!

[@jessjane2479]

Dream analysis is very interesting. I've always wondered how accurate of an unconscious analysis it was. The reason I question it is because more often than not, the dreams I remember include aliens and a lot of crazy imagery. I'm curious if we remember dreams that have a more powerful meaning than others? Very interesting area of study!

[@loriwardwell2957]

I found the discussion of the various defense mechanisms interesting and informative; it helped me to clarify the differences between some of them. I look forward to learning how we will address them in a counseling relationship.

[@monicaperry13]

I agree, Lori. As i was watching the video i was also thinking that it helped to clarify the differences between some of the defense mechanisms. I also started to think about how I would be able to use that information with my future clients and looked forward to learning more about how to apply that knowledge.

[@MrsBobDylan]

I agree, I like learning about defense mechanisms and find them interesting, but there were a few that I'm not as familiar with so the break down of them individually was great and helpful. And I'm looking forward to learning about how to address them in counseling, as well! =)

[@MrsBobDylan]

I enjoyed the video and the information discussed. I have always found psychoanalytic therapy interesting. The explanation of the defense mechanisms was great for me because I find defense mechanisms interesting and I have encountered some of them in life. Sometimes I was the one using them and sometimes I've seen them from others. The explanations allowed me to understand the difference between some of the ones that I'm not as familiar with.

[@jessjane2479]

This video definitely sheds some light as to the details of psychoanalytic therapy. It was interesting to me, however, that a counselor or client would want to '"reintegrate" repressed material back into the personality. At first thought, I would think this would do more harm than good. Maybe this theory takes this approach to identify the repressed memories and begin the healing process.

[@janicedixon2051]

I found this video informative as it helped give a better insight to Freuds theory of personality amd how it forms. I find it interesting that the ID, ego and superego develop while we're young without having any real knowledge as to why our behavior is the way it is.

[@mariohaziq678]

i have counselling test tomorrow morning. this is so helpful :) thanks sir.

[@DrGrande]

You are welcome - thank you for watching -

[@dalietamears7116]

This video was helpful in understanding the defense mechanisms and also understanding of superego and how it is the moral conscious.

[@ushalincoln9669]

After watching this video I believe I have better understanding of the different defense mechanism. Some of these defense mechanism definitely show up in the behaviors of the children I work with who have experience trauma in their early childhood in one way or another. I am hoping to learn through this course how to better recongize the different defense mechanism that our clients maybe displaying and how best assist them as their counselors.

[@monicaperry13]

After watching this video i have a clearer understanding of psychoanalytic theory. I found that going through the defense mechanisms and the use of examples for each to be especially helpful. I learned that repression is a fundamental defense mechanism and found it interesting that it is, in a way, the goal of all other defense mechanisms. As i thought more about that, it made sense to me that people would want to move thoughts from their conscious to their unconscious to protect themselves. I think it would be interesting to work with people to help bring those repressed unconscious thoughts back into their conscious mind.

[@loriwardwell2957]

I also found it interesting that repression was at the root of so many of the defense mechanisms but it makes sense when I consider that defenses are ways to avoid uncomfortable thoughts or emotions.

[@ninastreet4630]

I agree with you Monica. Hearing the examples given to each defense mechanism to be helpful in understanding each one. After watching this video, I can now relate some of these defenses to some of the clients I work with.

[@ushalincoln9669]

I agree with you Monica. I think that often times clients will not be able to work on there issues until they are able to consiously address the thoughts that they have repressed to their unconscious. I think it will be interesting to learn how to work with clients to help them bring there repressed unconscious feelings and thoughts back to their conscious.

[@joe1579]

Monica, I found the section on defense mechanism informative too. How they were explained in that section gave me a better understanding than I had before. I remember as an undergrad covering them in classes, but it seemed like more time & energy was always given to the id, ego, super ego, as well as the psychosexual stages...

[@amandagerrick5407]

I completely agree that the slide on defense mechanisms was helpful. It not only helped me to gain better knowledge of the defense mechanisms I have heard of before but it also helped me to learn about other defense mechanisms, as well. I look forward to learning more about these defense mechanisms so that we can identify them when seeing future clients.

[@robertodonati1037]

Even if nowadays Freud's theory seems to be questioned by the new theories in psychology, it is imposible to deny the importance it had in the development of this science. One of the main contributions was the importance of listening to patients and recognizing that is them who have the knowledge and is the psychoanalysts job to help them find meaning

[@elisawhite3031]

I think much of the skepticism comes from individuals who feel like they have complete control of their motives and behaviors; patients that refuse to look at the meaning behind their "way-of-being" have a difficult time connecting the dots, missing out on that deeper connection that could truly help them move past specific barriers.

[@joe1579]

I enjoyed the video & found the section covering the defense mechanisms informative. The examples given were good, particularly how repression works to push the unresolved issue into the unconscious, & how this defense mechanism is more or less an aspect of all the others.

[@diane3613]

I found the discussion on our defense mechanisms informative also, the example he gave on anxiety turning into panic attacks was insightful. I wouldn't have thought that having unresolved conflicts could lead to phobias if not dealt with.

[@diane3460]

Joseph I agree with you on the defense mechanisms section, it was informative to me also. I would have never connected unresolved conflict and anxiety. This seems like a cue I can use for myself because it bothers me that it can lead to panic attacks and phobias if you don't resolve it and rely on defense mechanisms to help.

[@kaylaf8799]

In my opinion, I think we se defense mechanisms simply to protect ourselves. What I mean by protecting ourselves is shielding ourselves away from feelings of guilt and anxiety. I believe that these Ego defenses are needed because of the fact that they are a form of protection. They hold a valuable role in the unconscious and are a powerful influence on our everyday behavior.

[@kyarapanula1002]

+Kayla F In combining your statement with some of the others, Kayla, I think it's important to note that everyone is key on self-preservation, as you state. We all sublimate, fixate, rationalize, deny, and so on. It is to what level we demonstrate these mechanisms, or how frequently we envelope that method of living outside of a more functional, balanced lifestyle that drives these traits from intermittent neurosis to irrational self-ruination.

[@kyarapanula1002]

When addressing the length of traditional psychoanalysis, my thought of "why is therapy seemingly prolonged?" meets "why do Freud's psychosexual stages end in early adulthood?" It is almost as if the developmental stages of the client restart once therapy commences, actually reliving each stage to work through any adhered conflict, ending around the same time that our brain fully matures in prefrontal, logical thinking.

[@heather7927]

+Kyara Panula Kyara, I never thought about Freud's psychosexual stages ending in early adulthood. That does seem strange. Maybe in that time when research was conducted, the life expectancy wasn't as prolonged but still it's interesting that it wouldn't expand to older age. That's a great point that maybe a person has to work through their conflicts.

[@sarahjones208]

The psychosexual stages of development are very thought provoking. It seems unreasonable to believe that individuals stop progressing through stages after their 20s as implied with the theory. While this theory has many gaps I do believe it can be used as a great learning tool.

[@amyocasio6382]

I think being able to connect a client's current behavior to unresolved issues, which most likely stemmed from childhood, will not only allow the client to resolve their current situation/behavior but also to explore and confront the unresolved issues in order to reduce or eliminate repeating the current behavior. I also think that when a client begins to display resistance, a break through is on the verge. The resistance indicates that the client is wanting to slow down or stop the process because it is becoming uncomfortable; it is the uncomfortable things in one's life that need to be confronted in order to move forward and see positive changes.

[@bigglesworth06]

Extremely helpful man. Thanks so much.

[@zureezee1887]

The information on psychoanalytic theory was very informative, especially the part about repression,and it being a result of pushing information from the preconscious and conscious to the unconscious. These defense mechanisms make sense in that they are used in almost everyday life. Why is it then that some people go through traumatic events but those memories are not repressed, while others repress memories of traumatic events. Secondly, if we interpreted dreams, and free associations as is the case in psychoanalytic theory, we fail to consider cultural differences, or interference due to our personal beliefs and values.

[@robertodonati1037]

Zuree, psychoanalysis is based in the patient's subjectivity, therefore cultural differences are always in play during the analysis. It is not the psychoanalyst that interprets the content of dreams nor of the material gathered in a session but the patient. Regarding the personal beliefs and values of therapists would only become a problem if countertransference is acted out.

[@lauriott5329]

I found the slide about defense mechanisms interesting because we all have them, but we don't all use them in the same way. Freud believed over dependence on any defense mechanism could cause dysfunction and I believe that to be true. We may use one or more as our "go to" way of dealing with difficult moments in our lives or realities we choose not to face.

[@melissahansbury6522]

I find the psychoanalytic approach to be inadequate at explaining the development throughout a person's life. Freud only describes the stages and events that take place until early adulthood but there are so many important developmental stages that we experience much after early adulthood. I do agree with you that the psychosexual stage model is not useful when describing the development of humans because it lacks that ability to go beyond early adulthood. However, as you have stated, the idea of being "stuck" in a developmental stage is very real and we will have to work with people who became stuck on a certain thing that happened in their life. Although Freud's aspect of being fixated in one stage did a poor job of displaying the idea of "fixation", it did raise a good concept. I also feel that the defense mechanisms were a useful idea that came out of the psychoanalytic theory. I see defense mechanisms being used in my daily interactions with people. Understanding why these defense mechanisms are used and how they are displayed is useful when trying to work with clients.

[@davinahall2394]

+Melissa Hansbury I wrote something similar I totally agree and I believe that understanding that a person could be "stuck" in a development stage is very accurate and important to know when counseling.

[@caitlinirwin6334]

+Melissa Hansbury It is likely that a client will become "stuck" on a certain developmental stage and it is unfortunate because as a counselor we have to try to understand why our client is fixated on a certain stage and what is the purpose that this fixation serves.

[@katybethhern6167]

+Melissa Hansbury I completely agree with your ending statement. I too see the use of defense mechanisms on a daily basis at work and within personal relationships. Therefore, I agree it is useful, not only in our field of study, but in everyday life to be aware when defense mechanisms are being used.

[@tommyfisher-klein8768]

I believe the idea that the goal of all defense mechanisms are to repress negative ideas, thoughts, actions or behaviors to be very intriguing and conflicting concurrently. People who have been in horrible accidents or experienced traumatic incidences generally do not remember the details of these events because your body and brain generally will not let you recall what has occurred. However having someone sublimate their behavior, thoughts, or actions into a positive factor/force in their life goes against that idea. For one to sublimate their thoughts, actions or ideas it does not seem as thought they are repressing their ideas, thoughts or actions however they are more wanting to change the outcome of their previous situation.

[@priscillaj3072]

+Tommy F I totally agree Tommy. I think defense mechanisms are used by individuals as negative coping strategies to deal with unwanted feelings or situations that bring them pain. However, if an individual chooses to sublimate their negative or appropriate thoughts and feelings and turn them to a more positive outlet, that individual can make positive changes in his or her life and hopefully begin to feel some relief from the negativity as well.

[@caitlinirwin6334]

+Tommy F Which calls into question can the person recognize that they have a problem and be able to ask for help in order to face their problems?

[@amyocasio6382]

+priscilla j I agree that when an individual is able to redirect their negative thoughts/feelings into a more positive outlet it can assist with eliminating the negativity and the hold that the negativity has on the individual's life. The redirection can bring purpose into the individual's life which can lead into a domino effect of positivity and healing.

[@aussiebreeze3971]

The video explains how one does not have to believe in all aspects of a theory to find value in the sum of its parts. Surely, their are voids in the theory that leave us wanting to fill in the space with clearer understanding. For example, if an adult finishes "adulting" in their mid-20s - do experiences that occur after this time not impact us as significantly as those experiences of our younger years? Surely, there is research to support that some traumas do indeed develop after the age of 25. Though some may argue that missing links such as these cause weakness in the use of this therapy style; these missing variables do not negate the theory as a whole. Dr. Grande creates a usable understanding of the theory in layman's terms quite successfully.

[@zureezee1887]

I agree that psychoanalytic therapy may be wanting as the information presented by a client could be greatly misinterpreted, however, it does present relevant information especially when looking at the defense mechanisms, and the way that developmental milestones may not be achieved by some.

[@cherylchance904]

I appreciate the detail included in this video with regard to the role of psychoanalytic theory in counseling. One particular component that intrigued me was Freud's basis for anxiety. It was stated that depending on the defense mechanism that is selected by the individual in dealing with their anxiety that improvement may be delayed or prevented thus resulting in phobias and / or panic. I was wondering how this could be explained in individuals who don't display anxiety first but instead go straight to displaying a phobia of sorts or panic disorder without underlying anxiety? Or, is the underlying anxiety always present but perhaps was repressed?

[@briannagoitiandia9833]

I agree that the component of anxiety is interesting. In learning about psychoanalytic theory in the past, I was never taught that defense mechanisms were a result of anxiety. I think you pose a very good question on whether defense mechanisms can be used without the display of anxiety.

[@krystleclear14]

Recently I was thinking of causes for certain phobias. I had read about this woman who was terrified of pickles. All I could think was, "what is the world happened to you to be horrified over a pickle?" But to answer your question - from my understanding, phobias and panic attacks are forms of anxiety. A key characteristic of anxiety is chronic worrying. With both panic attacks and phobias, worry plays a huge role in why they become so worked up over certain things/situations. So, I believe the anxiety is present in both. It's the symptoms or situations that further characterize panic disorder and phobias.

[@yogitajoshi]

Excellent n elaborated explanation.

[@DrGrande]

Thank you -

[@diane3613]

I agree with the Psychoanalytic Therapy that our dreams can lead to to unconscious mind. And that some of the unhealthy behaviors we exhibit can be connected to our unconscious mind. But if the interpretation is on the behalf of the counselor, how do they distinguish what is or is not relatable to the client's past. Also will this technique or path promote self-awareness.

[@caitlinirwin6334]

Defense mechanisms are used to help us counteract unpleasant feelings and thoughts. They are merely used to help us with survival and the benefit is that we can overcome the unpleasantness for the moment in order to complete our tasks. If we use defense mechanisms and do not take care of our problems, then that is when we risk developing unhealthy ways of coping.

[@angelagrimes3994]

Not coming from a psychological background, I found the explanation that when we can not resolve the drive of the id and the constraints of the superego, we often employ defense mechanisms useful. Often these defense mechanisms actually allow us to function. However, this is not an excuse for bad behavior but an explanation. We still need to figure why we resort to this behavior.

[@heather7927]

I found the defense mechanisms interesting. To me it seemed like these defense mechanisms result from the id, ego, and superego. It makes sense that in order to work through any issue the goal would be to bring the unconscious to the conscious but sometimes someone, the counselor, has to bring to the surface the things that are in our unconscious that seem to be enabling and prohibiting growth.

[@amyocasio6382]

+Heather I ...Heather, I agree with bringing the unconscious to the conscious in order to resolve issues; however, I anticipate their will be resistance on the part of the client and additional defense mechanisms may manifest themselves in order to block any exploration and discovery into the unconscious. Clients may present themselves as being ready to explore unresolved issues, etc but when the time comes to actually do it the process can be more difficult than anticipated which can lead to the resistance.

[@diane3460]

Many of my own dreams seem to come from nowhere, so I do believe that they are key to our unconscious mind. But how does a counselor know what to connect from our dreams to our past, is it a guessing game until they come up with something that matches. Although I like the theory of Psychoanalytic therapy, I would be cautious leaning on this alone to treat clients.

[@katybethhern6167]

I strongly believe that most of our client's issues and even our own personal issues, stem from an unresolved conflicts that took place during the developmental stages of childhood to adulthood. Thus, it is difficult for an adolescent to realize that they must seek help to resolve a conflict or that the conflict may cause issues later on in life. Thus, I enjoyed learning about the defense mechanisms, for the fact that we unconsciously use them during conflicts (big or small) on a daily basis. However, such mechanisms are harmful to our future wellbeing.

[@pearlbutler9377]

+Katybeth Hern I don’t think our defense mechanism are harmful to our lives unless we refuse to address the problems at hand. I also agree that we must of our conflict stem from unresolved during our development but how readily are we to address these conflicts.

[@anahgalloway2740]

I was also struck by Freud's Psychosexual Theory ending in early adulthood. While counselors can draw from this theory to conceptualize what is causing some clients to be "stuck" in early stages of development, I think Freud's theory neglects so many other stages of the life span to be applicable to all of human development. The video mentions that Psychosexual Theory is still practiced, but not as much as in the past. Perhaps overlooking adulthood as a period with substantial developmental changes contributes to its decrease in popularity.

[@rezuanmahmudpathan4325]

your view on this psychosexual theory of personality development makes more sense than freud, ,,,

[@priscillaj3072]

Transference is when the client projects feelings onto the counselor that were originally formed on an important person from the client's life. Even though this is a technique used by psychoanalysts, it seems that it could also be considered a defense mechanism for the client. Like displacement, the client is projecting his or her feelings onto a person that is not the original source for their thoughts or feelings and thus, not dealing with the feelings head on.

[@barbarahoffman408]

+priscilla j I don't think that it is a defense mechanism at all. My understanding is that during transference the therapist is standing in proxy for the offender and the client is able to talk to the therapist as if they are the actual person. Seems to me that this would work really well when the client has no way of speaking to the person that caused the offense.

[@charmainequarles5863]

+Barbara Hoffman I agree that transference isn't really a defense mechanism. I think it is more of a barrier than anything. I don't think that the therapist is "standing in proxy for the offender" in the sense that they giving the client the opportunity to speak as if they are speaking to the person who caused the offense. The way I see transference is, if I have an issue with a family not listening when I express my feelings and I feel the therapist is doing the same thing, I'm going to project the feelings that I have for my family member on to the counselor and maybe not be willing to share my true feelings with them.

[@christobalwright]

Good job. This video was very interesting

[@DrGrande]

I'm glad you found the video useful. Thanks for watching.

[@charmainequarles5863]

I think many of us have been trained to believe that using defense mechanisms is a bad thing. Of course when you look at the list of the most popular defense mechanisms you would think they're bad but most of them are pretty normal. Take denial for instance. I could say that I'm in denial about classes starting back up tomorrow. This is not as extreme as some other examples of denial but I'm just saying it to say that plenty of people use defense mechanisms regularly because it is the id's way of reducing or avoiding tension. I think it is important to remember that the belief is that "over dependence on an defense mechanism is likely to cause dysfunction".~Freud

[@anahgalloway2740]

+Charmaine Quarles I agree that this is an important aspect of psychoanalytical therapy to remember. I was struck by this example when learning about sublimation and channeling inappropriate thoughts into a more productive and acceptable outcome. However, the over-dependence defense mechanisms can cause problems, even when the initial behaviors seem positive.

[@alexandrajones3178]

+Charmaine Quarles I agree, I don't think that they are all bad. Defense mechanisms can be helpful, denying that classes start can ease our anxiety and make us feel a little better until we are faced with the issue itself. I do agree with the video, overusing defense mechanisms is when it becomes an issue. It's hard to say where that line of over dependence is. The line could vary from person to person and between cultures. One defense mechanism, such as dissociation or repressing feelings, could be normal for one culture, but to another, it could be seen as negative.

[@aussiebreeze3971]

I agree. I believe we have become a society that wants to categorize everything into "good" or "bad". Defense mechanisms are neither good nor bad as a rule. The same defense mechanism can be healthy for a person in one aspect of their life and yet unhealthy in another. A person may rationalize a situation which they are uncomfortable to avoid prolonging it. This person may release their hold on the situation in order to let go and move on. However, this same defense of rationalizing may be harmful to the person if in another area of their life they are using it to avoid truth that they do not wish to face.

[@jasmiraross2802]

I was thinking the exact thing. Sometimes, well, all of the time, I feel like defense mechanisms are used to protect that person itself whether it be from stress, or foreseeable harm. I completely agree with you. There is the stigmatization that they are all negative, and shouldn't be used, but in other cases it is important and sometimes safer to use them. Like I say when I am trying to make healthy eating decisions, "everything in moderation." Too much of anything is a bad thing.

[@davinahall2394]

I feel that Freud's psychoanalytic approach should be questioned for its accuracy simply because it does not cover a persons full life span. His concept stops at early adulthood and we all are aware of the importance of development that occurs long after that phase in a persons life. But, I do agree with Freud that defense mechanisms are very useful when it pertains to reducing anxiety. Although the psychosexual stage do not cover the full human life span, I do agree with the focus of fixation of a stage of development. It is important to evaluate events that occurred during ones life span and to understand that unresolved conflicts tend to lead to a person being "Stuck" at a stage of development. In all areas of counseling our duty is to help a person to become "unstuck" to promote healthy and stable development.

[@kaylaf8799]

+Davina Hall I was thinking the same when the video discussed Freud's psychoanalytic approach. I thought it was interesting that he did not cover the full lifespan.

[@MyDonh]

i was very pleased to learn that the majority of counselors adopt bits and pieces of different theories into a theory that best fits and works for them. I agreed with the core fundamentals of Freud's theory here but was glad to hear that there is always some flexibility in its adaptation. Freud has always struck me as a theorist with very little flexibility so that was quite refreshing. However after listening to this post, i am curious as to why it is important that we as counselors help to re integrate repressive materials into the client's personality? What if those materials were so damaging or dysfunctional that they impede their personal growth and cause some fixation of development as described here?

[@anahgalloway2740]

+don wilson I also like the idea of integrating multiple theories to find an approach that best fits. In previous courses my textbooks have referred to this as "eclectic therapy".

[@angelagrimes3994]

+don wilson Don, you bring up a good point. How do we as counselors determine that bringing up potentially dangerous material from the past is a good thing? I think we need to be very cautious in this area

[@melissahansbury6522]

+don wilson I also agree that it is a relief to know that it is okay to choose bits and pieces from different theories in order to develop our own counseling style. It is nice to know that we don't have to conform and commit to one style or theory and that we can choose what works best for us and the clients that we are working with.

[@kyarapanula1002]

+don wilson don, i totally see what you're saying--and we definitely need to exercise caution in each unique situation--but the universal outcome for psychoanalysis/therapy of various forms is to no longer avoid the etiology of conflict, but acquire adaptive skills to navigate reality. sometimes this is done through confrontation, though it sounds like the neo-freudians and psychodynamics choose more strategic techniques to eke out the unconscious.

[@scottmartin7764]

+don wilson I completely agree about being relieved to not be held down by only one theory! I think that a combination of what best suits the client is most important, and If a counselor is stuck on only knowing and following one how does that help?

[@wandabodre]

Thanks for your video. It has helped me a lot. Good Job!

[@DrGrande]

I'm glad you found the video useful. Thanks for watching.

[@GnightOwl]

Thanks Doctor

[@thomascarr9092]

Thanks a lot mate, subscribed! Hope to learn more from yourself :)

[@DrGrande]

You're welcome - thanks for watching.

[@ninastreet4630]

This video gave me insight on the defense mechanisms from this theory. The only one that is confusing me is the sublimation defense mechanism. If a person is redirecting a negative behavior into something positive, the example given by Dr. Grande was inappropriate sexual feelings and redirecting that to school work. Wouldn't that be a technique to help out the client instead of a defense mechanism?

[@karaannsullivan2363]

Hey Nina. Good post. My understanding of the example given by Dr. Grande was that the repression of any emotion is unhealthy, in this case the teenager's sexual feelings, even if it leads to a more productive behavior.

[@corinne7324]

Nina, I have to agree with your statement regarding sublimation defense mechanism. I do not understand why one would redirect their negative behavior into a positive. Is this something that is done on purpose or unconsciously? Is sublimation a defense mechanism only for people who have bad intentions and cant deal with their thoughts? This is something I would like to look further into.

[@melissasmith3173]

Nina, I thought the same thing when I heard this on the video. Then I recalled an article that I read a couple of years ago about an admitted pedophile who has never acted on his impulses. Instead, he started an online support group, and is trying to get help while consciously staying away from children. Initially I was appalled by the article but admittedly hadn't even thought about it again until I saw this video. I think that this is an example of sublimation. He's taken this horrific, inappropriate sexual feeling and redirected all that negativity into actively seeking help. The entire thing still bothers me, and I won't pretend that I empathize with him, but I think it fits the sublimation defense mechanism he spoke of in the video. In case you're interested, the link for that article and video is: www.upworthy.com/this-19-year-old-pedophile-has-never-gone-near-a-child-and-he-needs-you-to-hear-his-story

[@thedoover6520]

Thank you for this ❤️

[@SleeepyWayi]

Awesome! Big thanks

[@DrGrande]

You're welcome

[@pearlbutler9377]

The defense mechanisms seem plausible but I struggle with understanding the psychosexual stages of development, especially the Genital Stage. There are some individuals that believe in the value of waiting to engage in sexual activities until marriage, which could last longer then early twenties. With the experimental period of puberty gone does that leave the individual in conflict and addressing anxiety. It is understandable why the psychosexual stages are not accepted by many.

[@kimeeshareed-walker5687]

+Pearl Butler YOU MAKE A GOOD POINT Research state that Freud worked with troubled adults mostly, well, what about the healthy conscious adult?

[@MaShibe]

+Pearl Butler i agree with your point. I believe that we can only use some of these theories as reference, we can't take all the research to be true for all cultural contexts.

[@quantumquantum177]

Thank u soooo much

[@prathibhaprakash9641]

Want to know fundamentals of psychotherapy

[@LizzyW-f4c]

Chat im only watching this because i might be going crazy 🤓😝🤓😝

[@amber_Forever16]

The thumbnail is distressing