Difference Between Humanistic And Psychodynamic Theory

The psychodynamic and humanistic schools of thought have significantly influenced contemporary therapeutic practice. This essay will explore the theoretical concepts and underlying assumptions of both these approaches discussing current evidence, practical application, particularly within a New Zealand, and reflections to myself. It will focus on contemporary psychodynamic therapy and Carl Rogers contributions, namely person-centered therapy (PCT).

Fundamental characteristics of psychodynamic and humanistic approaches with links to self

Psychotherapy aims to change behaviour through verbal means by providing support, understanding, and teaching new behaviours (Ursano, Sonnenberg, & Lazar, 2004). Two distinctive ways of working in therapy include the psychodynamic and humanistic approaches. Psychodynamic therapy consists of a range of fundamental psychoanalytic concepts, principles and theories (Gabbard, 2010). The psychodynamic approach emphasises the importance of unconscious motives on how people behave (Nelson-Jones, 2000). The works of Sigmund Freud have largely influenced psychodynamic theory. Freud

However the main difference between humanistic and psychoanalytic therapies is how they work with client material (Owen, 1999). Humanistic psychology emerged in the 1960’s during the counter culture movement, in response to Sigmund Freud’s psychodynamic theory. The humanistic school is based on humanism, “a system of values and beliefs that emphasise enhancing the better qualities of humankind and peoples abilities to develop their human potential” (Nelson-Jones, 2000, p. 2). Broadly stated, people have the ability to guide, regulate and control them provided certain conditions exist (Nelson-Jones,