psychoanalyst

American  

[sahy-koh-an-l-ist] / ˌsaɪ koʊˈæn l ɪst /

noun

1. a person trained to practice psychoanalysis.

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Etymology

Origin of psychoanalyst

First recorded in 1910–15; psycho- + analyst

Explanation

A psychoanalyst is a mental health professional who works with clients over a long period of time to get at the root causes of their emotional and mental problems. Ever since Sigmund Freud first developed his theories of psychoanalysis in the 1890s, its practitioners, known as psychoanalysts, have helped people explore the origins of their mental states. Unlike other kinds of therapists, psychoanalysts tend to focus on dreams and childhood memories and traumas, and they use techniques meant to tap into a client's subconscious. A psychoanalyst is often called an analyst for short.

Example Sentences

“As a psychoanalyst or psychiatrist ages, we have the ability, through our own life experiences, to be more understanding and more aware,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 13, 2026

Even as he tries to stay ahead and stay alive, Gabriel reflects on his sessions with his psychoanalyst, Katerina Haas, who helps him differentiate between his “true self” and “false self.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 12, 2025

"These groups are the equivalent of the bistro counter – but with more people," said psychoanalyst Patrick Avrane, author of a book on attitudes to crime.

From BBC • Sep. 22, 2025

Stephen Ducat is a political psychologist, psychoanalyst and former psychology professor in the School of Humanities at New College of California.

From Salon • Oct. 16, 2024

Reuben Fine was not a therapist in the strict sense of the word, but he was a renowned psychoanalyst.

From "Endgame" by Frank Brady

Related Words

• psychotherapist
• therapist