Psychoanalysis places an emphasis on the role of the unconscious in our daily decisions (Safran et al., 2019). Additionally, Freud emphasized the role of fantasy in the ways we relate to others and the world around us. In psychoanalysis, it is important to explore and interpret clients' fantasies. I value Freud's ideas about defense mechanisms very much. I see defense mechanisms so often in other people, not just clients! As I mentioned, psychodynamic theories stem from psychoanalysis, but differ in at least one way. However, unconscious processes are the foundation to psychoanalysis and psychodynamic theories (Kealy & Ogrodniczuk, 2019). Whereas Freud valued a neutral counsellor, psychodynamic theories value the therapeutic relationship. What are some additional key tenets of psychodynamic theories? What makes a theory psychodynamic?