Psychoanalysis is a form of psychotherapy based on the idea that the problems people face, specifically in the areas of relationships and personal productivity and creativity, usually stem from internal struggles that are outside of one’s awareness.

Psychoanalytic treatment is well suited for those who have struggled to make sense of themselves and their lives, or who have sought other kinds of therapy and found it lacking in depth or effectiveness. Treatment takes a rigorous approach that involves several weekly sessions, and encourages patients to free associate, touching upon their daily lives, fantasies, and dreams.

Many people have reported that their lives and their understanding of themselves change dramatically after psychoanalytic treatments. Prominent artists and intellectuals have credited psychoanalytic treatment with their creative and personal successes.

In order to practice psychoanalysis, a psychoanalyst must undergo years of training and consultation in addition to attaining their professional degrees.