1. Psychoanalysis helps the client to uncover and resolve unconscious conflicts and to
strengthen the ego by redirecting energy to conscious processes. What methods does Dr.
Donavan use to achieve this goal? How effective is it with Helen?
Dr. Donovan uses what is known as free association. This involved the classical psychoanalysis
feature of the analytic couch. Sigmund Freud had two reasons for the use of the analytic couch,
“preventing the client from seeing the analyst helped to maintain the abstentious atmosphere and
seeing the therapist might reveal something or otherwise influence the client through facial
expression” (Murdock, 2017). This can be seen in the video with Dr. Donovan and his client
Helen. Helen is in a relaxed position, while Dr. Donovan is seated slightly behind her, giving her
space and freedom to say what she wants, whether it is right or wrong.
“Freud adopted the method of free associations during 1892-1898, starting from several criteria.
The method was to replace the use of hypnosis in the exploration of neurotic antecedents in his
patients” (J.Jones).
He also uses the Sigmund’s style of dream interpretation. Dr. Donovan allows Helen the freedom
to express her feelings but also shows concern. This is something she is longed for since she was
a child. At times, he would repeat something she said to get a clearer understanding to assist her
in understanding her what she was trying to really say. I would have to say it worked because, in
the end Dr. Donovan got Helen to the place where she could actually acknowledge what she was
feeling and that it was okay to feel that way, without being judged.
References
Murdock, N. L. (n.d.). Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy: A Case
Approach (4th ed.). New York, NY: Pearson.
J. Jones. ttp://www.freudfile.org/psychoanalysis/free_associations.html
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