is a psychoanalyst worth the cost?

Question

im thinking about going to a psychoanalyst because i dont know anything about myself.

Answer 1

First, realize that a psychoanalyst is just one type of therapist. It is a therapist who uses Freudian ideas. Actually, they are pretty rare nowadays, except say, in New York City.

If you mean a therapist, yes, they are very helpful. Look at Consumer Reports review of the effectiveness of therapy a couple of years ago. Many people benefit and improve their quality of life. Reduced fees can be gotten in some community health centers, or by speaking with the therapists office.

Answer 2

For certain persistent and difficult problems that often have to do with very bad unconscious habits and/or very strained and difficult interpersonal relations, yes, seeing a psychoanalyst is worth the cost. But you must have the budget for 4-5 $100+ sessions per week.

Some analysts may not require the 4-5 times per week, but they will then tell you that you are not really having an analysis, just psychoanalytic therapy. I am seeing such a therapist. I am seeing him for self-improvement/relief from some long-standing but relatively mild issues and because I myself am working to become a good psychotherapist, and to do that you need maximal self-awareness. He is not an orthodox psychoanalyst but he does many of the same things using the same ideas.

Analysis and/or analytic therapy is a way to meet parts of yourself that you are completely or partially unaware of--parts that your friends and family are not well-trained enough to put consisely and empathically into words. Also, there are some even deeper parts of us that may need to be met and acknowledged that even your friends and family may not know about or understand (partly because you don't). The idea is to broaden your awareness into a solid theory about youself that will also include the parts of you that you are already aware of.

As I said, severe symptoms, particularly chronic ones, are the main reason most see an analyst, although some wealthy persons do so simply to 'know themselves better.' But you really have to want it, not just see an analyst because it's fashionable. I think that most who say analysis didn't work after 5 years, etc, probably were not really wanting to change, or their particular analyst was unethical and did not want to lose a client. It can be very scary to go as deep as analysts can, so many actually place the responsibility on the analyst when really he/she is just a guide--a very well-trained one.

Finally, be aware that analysis has changed, and younger and/or more open-minded practitioners adhere to a much more open, flexible, and interpersonal approach that many people find much more appealing. Yet, such new analysts still address the "deep stuff." So if you're serious, try to find someone who calls themselves a 'contemporary' or 'relational' or 'intersubjective' analyst.

Answer 3

My understanding is that psychoanalysts don't say much, but let you talk, and as you talk you're eventually supposed to come to some realization. Why don't you just talk to yourself for a couple of months and see if anything happens. Good luck.

Answer 4

Rather than psychoanalysis you might consider a good psychologist or therapist that does solution-focussed or short-term therapy. I think you will derive just as much benefit from it.

As to the persons who are advocating self-analysis on line, and complaining about paying "a stranger" to learn about yourself or talking to friends and family ... they are perfect examples of what can happen to someone who is totally clueless about themselves.

Answer 5

It's just like everyone else in life. Is every teacher a good teacher?
Is every MD a good MD? Is every dentist great at it? (That's an expensive idea you have there) If you are young you aren't exactly finished yet! Remember the answers are inside you. When you find that perfect psy. they are going to spend your time and money to listen to you talk about yourself and then ask you what YOU think? How about a tape recorder and a note to yourself asking what you think after listening to all those tapes? Good Luck!! @8=)

Answer 6

Some are really helpful, and others seem in need of help themselves. There are free and sliding-scale mental health clinics in every state. Before laying out a whole bunch of cash, check the free/cheap guys out.

Answer 7

It depends. Psychoanalysis is expensive, not usually covered by insurance, and generally takes years. Most people see a psychiatrist or therapist to deal with problems and gain insights into their behavior.

Answer 8

If you need to ask a stranger about you, and pay them to boot, you should consider going online and doing your own self analysis or talk with friends & family.

Answer 9

Why you want some analyze you? You don't need Psychiatrist to know who you are, ask your families and friends someone who cares about you, someone who knows you well.

Answer 10

No!!!!!!!!!