Experiences during development, relationship with parents and significant care givers, early attachment, the meaning of significant relationships, childhood trauma and other factors, can lead to difficulties in later life.

These may become manifest in the form problems with emotional regulation, anxiety, depressed mood, repeated patterns of self-destructive behaviour, relationship difficulties and other difficulties in adult life. Psychodynamic explorations and therapy can lead to the gaining of critical insights which can then lead to self understanding, self acceptance and change.

In addition to the conscious aspects of psychodynamic therapy, the therapeutic relationship itself is a powerful therapeutic agent of healing.