Lexington MA Psychoanalyst
What is psychoanalysis
Psychoanalysis is also rooted in conversation, but an altogether more intensive form of therapy that attempts to understand both the unconscious and conscious mind. Where psychotherapy explores what is on the surface, psychoanalysis goes deeper — into the patterns, conflicts, and experiences that shape how we think, feel, and relate to others, often without our awareness.
The guiding principle in any analytic session is to say what's on your mind, whatever you are thinking and feeling in the moment of a session, whether it be about the past or present, while withholding nothing and without ever censoring yourself. That, of course, is a pretty tall order for anyone. Certain things are inevitably held back. Inhibitions occur, because it isn't so easy to be that open with yourself — or with me. These inhibitions, it turns out, are an important part of the work. They alert both of us to areas of psychological conflict that need to be worked through.
This working through takes time. Typically appointments are four times per week, with the patient on the couch, although we would usually begin by meeting once or twice per week and then comfortably work our way up.
What happens over the course of psychoanalysis?
This frequent and involved contact with the analyst allows the person to slowly but steadily transfer onto me certain problematic and typically self-destructive thoughts, feelings, expectations, and behaviors that developed during childhood and are unconsciously at play in their relationships with important others in their life. This transference progressively moves those self-destructive tendencies — which ordinarily play out in everyday relationships — into the relationship with the analyst. Here, instead of being acted out in the world, they can be talked about and understood. That understanding leads to insight, growth, and the gradual replacement of self-destructive behavior, depression, and anxiety with better choices and a greater sense of agency.
Most patients can benefit from psychoanalysis. It helps one understand the complicated and confusing parts of the self that are often behind repetitive self-destructive behavior and difficult emotional states. Understanding the deeper parts of ourselves leads to less harmful behavioral patterns, a greater sense of contentment, and overall better choices in life.
Frequently asked questions about psychoanalysis
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A psychoanalyst is a specially trained mental health professional who helps patients explore both the conscious and unconscious mind. Through frequent, in-depth conversations, they listen closely and help you uncover the patterns, emotions, and conflicts that shape your behavior and relationships — with the goal of fostering a deeper self-awareness, and lasting beneficial psychological change.
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You might seek psychoanalysis if you feel stuck in recurring patterns, struggle with self-defeating behaviors, or want to understand yourself more fully. It’s especially helpful for people who’ve tried other therapies and want a more in-depth approach.
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Sessions typically occur several times a week in a consistent setting, often with the patient reclining on a couch and the analyst out of view. This structure helps you speak freely and reflect more deeply. Over time, we identify and work through unconscious conflicts that influence your emotions, relationships, and choices.
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I am an out-of-network provider, which means you pay me directly. I’ll provide you with a receipt you can submit to your insurance for possible reimbursement. Many of my patients use plans such as Blue Cross Blue Shield, Tufts, Aetna, Cigna, and Optum (UnitedHealthcare, Harvard Pilgrim).I do not contract directly with insurance companies, which helps ensure privacy and allows us to focus entirely on your care, not billing codes.
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There’s no fixed timeline — analysis is a gradual, deeply personal process. Many patients find that consistent work over time leads to profound and lasting transformation in how they think, feel, and relate to others.
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Cancellations made within 48 hours of your appointment may incur a fee equal to the cost of your session. However, whenever possible, I do my best to accommodate rescheduling.
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Your privacy is a top priority. As an out-of-network provider, I am not required to share your treatment information with insurance companies or other third parties unless you give written consent.
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Psychotherapy focuses on present-day struggles and often meets once weekly. Psychoanalysis goes deeper, exploring the roots of emotional conflict and unconscious processes through more frequent sessions.
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I completed several years of advanced psychoanalytic training, supervision, and personal analysis at accredited institutions. While techniques have evolved, the insights of psychoanalysis remain foundational in understanding the human mind. Many modern therapies draw from psychoanalytic principles of self-awareness, emotional honesty, and personal growth.
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