Depth psychology-based psychotherapy (TP) does not see depressive complaints only as symptoms. It asks what gives rise to and sustains them.
TP TOPICS
Psychodynamic psychotherapy for depression
What Gets Worked On
The work often revolves around conflicts between dependence and autonomy, self-esteem, suppressed anger, and high internal expectations.
In more severe cases, the focus is often less on a repressed conflict and more on an impaired ability to regulate emotions and maintain stable self-esteem. In such cases, the therapy is supportive and structure-building rather than uncovering. Whether TP is a good fit is clarified at the beginning.
When More Is Needed
The effectiveness of TP in depression is well studied. According to the National Disease Management Guideline, the combination of psychotherapy and medication should be offered in an acute, severe depressive episode. If the combination is declined, one of the two approaches on its own may also be considered.
Treating depression is medical or psychotherapeutic work. My work as a psychologist is exclusively counseling. This is psychodynamically influenced and not a treatment for depression.
In cases of acute suicidality, crisis intervention takes priority. You can reach help around the clock at 116117, and in immediate danger at 112.
