What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
psychoanalytic
Example
The psychoanalytic approach to therapy involves exploring the patient's unconscious mind. [psychoanalytic: adjective]
Example
She underwent psychoanalytic treatment to address her anxiety. [psychoanalytic: noun]
psychodynamic
Example
The psychodynamic approach to therapy focuses on the patient's internal conflicts and relationships. [psychodynamic: adjective]
Example
He found psychodynamic therapy helpful in addressing his depression. [psychodynamic: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Psychodynamic is more commonly used than psychoanalytic in modern psychology and therapy.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between psychoanalytic and psychodynamic?
Both psychoanalytic and psychodynamic are formal terms used in academic and therapeutic settings.