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Bother Quote by Albert Ellis

“I thought foolishly that Freudian psychoanalysis was deeper and more intensive than other, more directive forms of therapy, so I was trained in it and practiced it. Then I found that it intensively went into every irrelevancy under the sun - and that it didn't work. People got insights into what…” quote by Albert Ellis
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“I thought foolishly that Freudian psychoanalysis was deeper and more intensive than other, more directive forms of therapy, so I was trained in it and practiced it. Then I found that it intensively went into every irrelevancy under the sun - and that it didn't work. People got insights into what was bothering them, but they hardly did a damn thing to change.”

Albert Ellis

About This Quote

The speaker realized that psychoanalysis often explores irrelevant details without leading to practical change, making it ineffective despite offering insights.

In simple terms: Psychoanalysis can be insightful but often fails to produce real change.

Key Takeaway

Seek therapy that promotes actionable change.

Themes

therapy psychology effectiveness insight action

Mood

reflective critical hopeful

Type

analytical advisory

When to use this quote

  • counseling sessions
  • personal growth
  • mental health treatment
  • self‑help strategies

Key Concepts

Freudian analysis insight generation behavioral change

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can insight be turned into action?
  • What therapies balance understanding and change?
A Different Perspective

It may overlook immediate problems and delay concrete solutions.

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