Why Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Works for Relational Trauma

Relational trauma can have a profound impact on an individual's sense of self, shaping their personality and influencing their ability to form secure and trusting relationships. When trust is fractured through experiences such as neglect, abandonment, or abuse, it can lead to deep-seated fears of criticism and rejection. However, research has shown that psychodynamic psychotherapy is an effective approach for helping individuals recover from these wounds and regain a stable sense of self.

Understanding Relational Trauma

Chen (2016) describes relational trauma as the result of alarming interpersonal events, including sexual assault, physical abuse, and mental abuse. Unlike isolated traumatic experiences, relational trauma stems from repeated violations of trust within relationships, often leading to profound disruptions in personality development. Individuals affected by this type of trauma frequently struggle with a fragile sense of self, experiencing pervasive fears of abandonment and rejection (Athansaidou-Lewis, 2016).

How Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Helps

Psychodynamic psychotherapy focuses on uncovering and processing unconscious patterns that have developed due to past experiences. By bringing these patterns to awareness, individuals can work through their fears and develop a stronger sense of identity. Research has consistently shown the effectiveness of this approach in addressing relational trauma.

Athansaidou-Lewis (2016) observed that individuals who initially presented with a fragile sense of self exhibited newfound confidence after completing psychodynamic psychotherapy. Similarly, Meganck et al. (2020) found that participants who began treatment with a diminished sense of self reported significant improvements post-therapy. This transformation allowed individuals to feel more secure in themselves, reducing feelings of unease and self-doubt (Chen, 2016).

One of the most notable benefits of an improved sense of self is an increase in confidence and assertiveness. Van Nieuwenhove et al. (2020) found that as individuals no longer feared rejection or abandonment, they were more willing to express their needs and set boundaries. Additionally, Leichsenring (2008) concluded that long-term psychodynamic psychotherapy significantly improved overall personality functioning, reinforcing the idea that deep-seated relational wounds can be healed over time.

Final Thoughts

Relational trauma can leave individuals struggling with insecurity, fear, and a weakened sense of self. However, psychodynamic psychotherapy provides a path toward healing by addressing the unconscious patterns formed through past trauma. Research supports its effectiveness, demonstrating that individuals who undergo treatment emerge with greater confidence, security, and resilience. By rebuilding a stable sense of self, psychodynamic psychotherapy offers a transformative journey for those seeking to overcome the wounds of relational trauma and reclaim their identity.

References 

Athanasiadou-Lewis, C. (2016). My subdued ego: A psychodynamic case study of borderline personality disorder following relational trauma. Psychodynamic Practice, 22(3), 223–235. https://doi.org/10.1080/14753634.2016.1198274

Chen, W. C. (2016). A qualitative study of understanding clients' relational trauma. International Journal of Social Science and Humanity, 6(11), 859. 10.18178/ijssh.2016.V6.859 

Leichsenring, F., & Rabung, S. (2008). Effectiveness of long-term psychodynamic psychotherapy: A meta-analysis. JAMA, 300(13), 1551–1565. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.300.13.1551

Leichsenring, F., Rabung, S., & Leibing, E. (2004). The efficacy of short-term psychodynamic psychotherapy in specific psychiatric disorders: A meta-analysis. Archives of General Psychiatry, 61(12), 1208–1216. https://doi.org/10.1001/archpsyc.61.12.1208

Perry, J. C., & Bond, M. (2012). Change in defense mechanisms during long-term dynamic psychotherapy and five-year outcome. The American Journal of Psychiatry, 169(9), 916–925. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ajp.2012.11091403

Van Nieuwenhove, K., Truijens, F., Meganck, R., Cornelis, S., & Desmet, M. (2020). Working through childhood trauma-related interpersonal patterns in psychodynamic treatment: An evidence-based case study. Psychological Trauma: Theory, Research, Practice & Policy, 12(1), 64–74. 10.1037/tra0000438