Couch (Psychoanalytic Couch)

In psychoanalysis, the "couch" is a comfortable, reclined chair used during therapy sessions, primarily by the patient. Its purpose is to facilitate free association, allowing the patient to relax and openly share thoughts, feelings, and memories without self-censorship. The therapist typically sits out of the patient's direct line of sight, helping the patient focus inward. This setup encourages deeper exploration of the unconscious mind, uncovering underlying issues influencing behavior and emotions. The couch has become a symbolic and practical tool, representing a space for introspection and emotional vulnerability within psychoanalytic practice.