Psychoanalyst

Definition

A psychoanalyst is a mental health professional who uses psychoanalytic techniques to explore and understand a person's unconscious thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. They often focus on the influence of early childhood experiences on an individual's current psychological functioning.

Related terms

Unconscious mind: According to psychoanalytic theory, this refers to a part of the mind that contains thoughts, memories, desires, and feelings that are outside conscious awareness but still influence behavior.

Psychoanalysis:

A therapeutic approach developed by Sigmund Freud that aims to bring unconscious thoughts and feelings into conscious awareness in order to gain insight and promote psychological growth.

Defense mechanisms: Psychological strategies used by individuals at an unconscious level to protect themselves from anxiety or distressing emotions.