Transactional analysis is a psychotherapy method for personal growth and personal change with a wide variety in its application with individuals, couples and groups.
What is transactional analysis (TA)?
Transactional Analysis (TA) is a well-established form of psychotherapy developed by Eric Berne in the 1950s. It offers a way of understanding personality, communication and the ways people relate to themselves and others.
TA provides a framework for exploring patterns of thinking, feeling and relating that shape our lives. It can be helpful for a wide range of psychological difficulties, from everyday challenges in relationships and communication to more complex and long-standing emotional struggles.
In recent decades the field of TA has developed significantly. Many contemporary practitioners now work within what is known as relational transactional analysis, an approach that places the therapeutic relationship at the centre of the work.
Our TA psychotherapists trained at Metanoia Institute, a centre closely associated with the development of contemporary relational approaches within transactional analysis.
How did TA psychotherapy begin?
Transactional analysis was originally developed by Eric Berne as a way of building on some of the ideas of Sigmund Freud while creating a more observable and relational way of understanding human behaviour.
Berne focused on what he called transactions – the exchanges that occur between people in everyday interactions. He observed that individuals tend to move between different internal positions, which he described as ego states: Parent, Adult and Child.
By paying attention to how these states appear in relationships and communication, Berne began to identify recurring interpersonal patterns that influence how people experience themselves and others.
A relational approach to transactional analysis
Transactional analysis encompasses a broad and diverse field. Some forms focus more strongly on behavioural change, while others take a depth-oriented approach that attends to unconscious processes and relational dynamics.
Our work is informed by relational transactional analysis, which emphasises the therapeutic relationship as the primary context in which change occurs. Rather than applying techniques to correct behaviour, the focus is on understanding how relational patterns emerge between therapist and client and how these patterns reflect wider experiences in a person’s life.
We also work in a jargon-free way. Although transactional analysis has a rich theoretical language, we integrate its ideas into psychotherapy without relying on technical terminology or formulaic interventions. The aim is to keep the therapy grounded in meaningful conversation and genuine human contact.
Our training allows us to draw on the full breadth of TA and adapt the work to the needs of the individual, couple or group we are working with.
How TA psychotherapy works in practice
Transactional analysis psychotherapy is a collaborative talking therapy. Together with your therapist, you gradually explore patterns of communication, emotional responses and ways of relating that may currently feel automatic or outside awareness.
Through the therapeutic relationship, these patterns can become clearer and more understandable. As awareness grows, new possibilities for relating to oneself and to others can begin to emerge.
The intention is not simply to analyse behaviour, but to create a space where previously unexamined experiences and relational patterns can be thought about, felt and worked through.
What happens during transactional analysis?
Taking on the journey of transactional analysis therapy can be daunting. But during your sessions, we explore patterns of communication and behaviour to improve relationships and focus on understanding ego states and their impact.
Your first session
Your first session provides an opportunity for you and your therapist to get to know each other and determine if it’s the right fit. You may experience a mix of relief and anxiety as you enter into this journey, and this is normal. Your role during the first meeting is to gauge whether you feel comfortable enough to share your personal inner world with the therapist and ask as many questions as you feel necessary to make your decision. It’s important to remember that there is no rush for making your decision, and you should take time to understand how you feel following the meeting.
Confidentiality in transactional analysis therapy
Confidentiality is crucial in therapy as it ensures everything that is discussed in your sessions stays between you and your therapist. However, there are rare instances where confidentiality may be broken if you are deemed to be a risk to yourself or others.
The frame
The frame in therapy refers to the physical and contractual boundaries that create a conductive therapeutic environment. Each clinician may have their own unique approach to the frame, but its purpose remains consistent – to safeguard both you and the therapeutic process.
The frame may include various aspects including the time and location of sessions, confidentiality, fees, and the consistent manner in which your therapist interacts with you.
Ongoing sessions
Most people who come to transactional analysis therapy either come for an agreed number of sessions or will enter into an open-ended contract with their therapist. However, once people get into a rhythm with therapy and start to see the benefits that translate into your everyday life, it’s not uncommon for them to want to continue with their therapy.
If you are unsure of the type of therapy you need, you can search for a therapist to suit you.
Our TA therapists Brighton and Lewes
Transactional analysis psychotherapy is offered by Sam Jahara and Gerry Gilmartin
Based across Brighton, Hove and Lewes, our therapists draw on relational transactional analysis and their broader psychotherapy training to respond to the unique needs and goals of each client.
Why choose Brighton and Hove Psychotherapy?
Choosing Brighton and Hove Psychotherapy is a really important step in your journey to better understanding yourself, and overcoming the challenges that life throws at you. We have assembled a truly remarkable team of highly trained psychotherapists, who have the experience and knowledge to apply a variety of techniques and styles of therapy to the needs of many client groups. We do this from well-appointed, convenient locations in Hove and Lewes, as well as offering online sessions to enable you to make the time for yourself that you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can couples do transactional analysis?
Yes; transactional analysis therapy can be one-on-one, or be attended by couples, families or groups.
How many transactional analysis sessions do I need to have?
This will depend entirely on what you need from therapy. You may wish to agree with your therapist on a fixed number of sessions or enter into an open-ended agreement.
Where are your transactional therapists available?
Transactional analysis is available at our Hove and Lewes practices, as well as online.
What issues can TA help with?
The versatility of TA allows us to use it for a range of difficulties, from everyday communication problems to more complex mental health issues.
What is the objective of transactional analysis?
There are many objectives that can be achieved through transaction analysis, but broadly it allows the client to make more informed decisions about the way they choose to behave, and better understand themselves, and those around them.
How can I find the right transactional analysis psychotherapist?
We’ve got a helpful online tool that allows you to get to know more about our psychotherapists, so we’d suggest starting there as a guide to who would be a good fit.
All the content on this page has been reviewed and vetted by Sam Jahara Transactional Analysis Psychotherapist, Supervisor and Co-Founder of Brighton and Hove Psychotherapy. For any questions or more information about the subjects discussed on this page please contact us.