Older Psychodynamic Psychiatrists: Practice Metrics and Subjective Observations.

Abstract

A survey of 20 older psychodynamic psychiatrists was conducted to determine practice metrics, venues of clinical care, and clinician's subjective observations. The post-pandemic normalization of teletherapy, societal acceptance of psychoactive medication into the practice of psychotherapy, significant advances in medical care for older persons, and increased utility of computer technology have enabled clinicians to work into their later years. The integration of supportive therapeutic techniques with psychoanalytic principles coupled with long-term weekly or biweekly treatment has largely replaced intensive formal psychoanalytic therapy of an earlier era. How aging may impact the therapeutic relationship and matters of health and mortality may need to enter the therapeutic dialogue. Minor deficits in cognitive function may be offset by note-taking and session reviews. The benefits of wisdom and experience often unburdened by the demands of earning a livelihood or furthering professional ambitions may render care by secure older psychodynamic psychiatrists effective.