relationally-oriented psychodynamic therapy

Bloom Therapy uses a relationally-oriented psychodynamic therapy framework. Psychodynamic psychotherapy is an evidence-based approach to treating many psychological concerns (to learn more about the evidence behind this approach, check out this article). Modern psychodynamic therapy grew out of psychoanalysis, one of the oldest approaches to talk therapy. Modern psychodynamic therapy is versatile, holistic and collaborative. In addition to the pursuit of resolving symptoms, it aims to support individuals to develop a deeper understanding of their whole psychological self and consciousness. It can lead to positive developments in self-esteem, life satisfaction, and relationships. Modern psychodynamic therapy sessions emphasize discussion and collaborative conversation — they may be more or less structured depending on your needs, as well as your therapist’s background and style.

Relationally-oriented therapy is a type of modern psychodynamic therapy that places great emphasis on human relationships: relationships and attachments are seen as integral to growth and development. In this kind of therapy, the relationship between the client and therapist is considered central to the work. In this kind of therapy, attention will be paid to the here-and-now interactions between you and your therapist — with aim of exploring these interactions to help shed light on the way you think, feel, and behave in relationships outside the therapy room. A holistic view of relationships will consider your relationship to yourself, to others, to behaviors, all in the context of your broader environments (past/present), and socio-political cultural milieu.

Relationally-oriented psychodynamic therapy is a great fit for individuals who enjoy self-reflection, self-examination, and are curious about the “close read” — but also enjoy zooming out to notice themes, patterns, and trends. It is generally a good fit for people who are interested in developing a long-term relationship with a therapist, and are interested in committing to sessions at least once per week.

EMDR Therapy

EMDR, or “Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing" is an effective and evidence-based approach to treating trauma. This relatively novel approach to therapy was developed in the 1980’s by Dr. Francine Shapiro. EMDR is a fairly structured clinical approach that supports clients to briefly focus on traumatic content (thoughts, feelings, sensations) while simultaneously focusing on a here-and-now bilateral cue (often eye movements, but sometimes sounds or physical cues). EMDR is rooted in a strengths-based model of human growth, healing and development. EMDR is founded on the belief that each person holds an innate and foundational capacity to adaptively process information — including traumatic thoughts, feelings, and memories. To learn more, check out this article or this video.

EMDR therapy can be brief (10-12 sessions) or can extend months or years depending on the kind and complexity of trauma a person has experienced. EMDR therapy sessions are usually held 1-2 times per week. It can be conducted as a stand-alone therapy, or, in tandem with more traditional kinds of talk therapy (such as modern psychodynamic therapy) — by the same practitioner or two different practitioners. At Bloom Therapy, we utilize EMDR as a therapeutic modality within a broader psychodynamic relational framework. We also collaborate with outside therapists to provide EMDR therapy to clients who wish to process traumatic material in a novel way in addition to their work with a longstanding psychodynamic therapist.