The Counselling Journal

Psychodynamic theory, introduced by Sigmund Freud in the late 19th and early 20th century, was applied to understand the origin of human behaviour.  This theory analyses the influences of childhood, unconscious mind and interpersonal relationship on a person's behaviour.  Key elements of psychodynamic theory are described below:  1. Personality Structure:  a) id: Driven by instinct and desire, id is the primal part of the personality.  For example, when a baby gets it's desires fulfilled, it is happy. If the desire is not met, the baby shows all the symptom of dissatisfaction. This cycle of behaviour perfectly describes id. Later on in life, the baby's personality develops into ego and superego.  b) Ego:  ''The ego is that part of the id that has been modified by the direct influence of the external world'' _ Freud  The ego's goal is to satisfy the demands of id in a socially acceptable, logical and safe way.  Freud also described id as a hor...

A helping relationship ending doesn't mean that the helpee is being thrown out, it is about trying to achieve the objectives that the helpee discussed with the helper  at the beginning of the relationship.  It is like, a builder has to stop when the whole work of building is done. That is when all the aim is met. There is no point of continuation afterwards.  However, it is possible that the ending of a helping relationship can have various impacts. Such as,  Positive Impacts:  Accomplishment  One of the major aims of a helping relationship is that the helpee feels some sort of accomplishment, which were difficult to figure out on their own at the beginning.  Relief A positive impact can be a sense of relief for the helpee. Which can help them to move forward.  Pride  The sense of accomplishment can give the helpee a sense of pride. They can feel proud for coming this far.  Fulfilment  One of the positive impacts for the helpee can ...

Professor Tim Bond from University of Bristol says, sometimes the helpee can consider the ending of the helping relationship as a major loss in their lives, simply because it has brought some structure for their lives and it is suddenly disappearing.  Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hmtIKP5Oug0 In order to make the client feel less insecure or sad, the helper should construct effective and safe ending strategies.  Such as,  Strategy 1: Being compassionate and direct  It is important not to be defensive or blaming the client for any break or termination, even if the client is difficult or not a good fit for the helper. Discussing the ending plan at the beginning and subtly reminding about it throughout the whole relationship period. Subtle reminder means simply reminding the boundaries without rushing the client. Overall, preparing the client for an emotional adjustment and conclusion with compassion. Strategy 2: Providing resources for future support  W...