“Depth” is an all encompassing word referring to multiple psychological theories that focus on addressing your present day problems by looking at what is below your conscious awareness.
Our minds work a lot like icebergs. Think of that small piece visible above water, while the majority of it is underwater, out of sight. In your mind, the thoughts and feelings you're aware of are the visible pieces floating above the surface. Underneath, in the unconscious, lives old beliefs you absorbed from childhood, feelings and parts of yourself you pushed away, all of which influence your present day behavior and mood.
Depth psychotherapy is built around the idea that if we can bring some of that unconscious material into your conscious awareness it enables you to resolve inner conflict and create a more integrated self.
How depth psychology looks in session
In session, I will ask you how your week was, however, I am listening for much more than your verbal response. I'm also paying attention to your tone, subtle shifts in body language, what is not being said, and memories or images that surface unprompted. We follow these threads, even if they wander from whatever brought you in that day. This type of therapy makes room for the mystical and mythological, and encourages working with dreams and symbols.
This does not mean we must dig through your entire childhood before we talk about what’s currently bothering. However, we will explore the impact of early relationships on your sense of self and utilize the interaction between client and therapist to help you understand patterns in all of your relationships.
Where depth psychology originates
Two of the most famous pioneers of depth psychologists are Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung. Freud first proposed that unresolved experiences from early life continue to quietly shape adult behavior. Jung expanded that idea to include viewing the human psyche as living within both a personal and collective unconscious. Jung also introduced the idea of archetypes, patterns that arise across cultures through myths and symbols.
Who depth psychology helps most
Depth psychotherapy is recommended for those with long-standing problems that continue to remain unresolved, despite intellectually understanding the problem. For example, if you continue finding yourself in a series of unsatisfying relationships, prolonged depression or anxiety, enduring profound loss, or difficulties in your family of origin.
While there are many types of therapy that address specific behavioral problems, depth psychology is often a better fit for those who crave deeper exploration of their psychic life.
TL;DR: Depth psychology exposes unconscious dynamics to help you reconnect with your inner self and the presence of soul in daily life.
