Introducing Psychoenalysis, a 21st-Century Approach to Psychological Treatment
- Brainz Magazine
- Feb 25
- 6 min read
Updated: Feb 26
Introducing Slobodan Nesovic, an experienced psychologist whose journey from the tumultuous landscapes of Serbia to the bustling streets of San Francisco has shaped his profound understanding of human nature.
It is well known to a keen reader that psyche in the Greek language is closer in meaning to the word soul in English than to mind, as James Strachey translated from Freud's 1890 paper Psychical (or Mental) Treatment. ¹ The word Freud initially used was Seele, which means soul or psyche in German. This is quite different from the meaning of the English word mind. ² Psychical processes are not merely mental processes; in my opinion, they include all unseen processes within an individual’s psyche and soma. Since Freud initially used psychoanalysis to mean the analysis of the soul or psyche, I am using the term similarly.
The idea for a psychoanalytic approach to psychotherapy had been brewing in my conscious and subconscious mind for many years. It was not a sudden revelation but an organic evolution, formed through my experiences, studies, and work with countless individuals seeking healing. In March 2012, soon after leaving San Francisco and the psychoanalytically oriented Access Institute for Psychological Services, I knew I wanted to write a book about my approach to therapy. I wanted to introduce it to a broader audience, contributing to the work on mental health, psycho-spiritual development, and human consciousness.
The limitations of Freudian psychoanalysis
Sigmund Freud's psychoanalysis laid the foundation for modern depth psychology, providing essential insights into the unconscious mind. His model, built upon the structures of the id, ego, and superego, was revolutionary in understanding human behavior. Yet, over a century later, we must acknowledge that Freud’s scientific understanding limited his framework.
While traditional psychoanalysis has evolved, it still often falls short in effectiveness. One of the significant shifts in psychoanalysis came with the move from one-person to two-person psychology. Instead of the therapist acting as a detached observer analyzing the patient's unconscious material, as in classical psychoanalysis, relational psychoanalysis acknowledges the profound impact of the therapist-client relationship. This shift was a crucial step forward, but still, something was missing. The purely psychological model did not fully account for the interconnectedness of our being with greater Consciousness. This realization was the seed from which Psychoenalysis grew.
The birth of psychoenalysis
The name Psychoenalysis emerged while visiting my country of origin, Serbia, and the Holy Hills of Fruška Gora in May 2012. Changing the letter “a” to “e” was not random. The “e” in Psychoenalysis stands for energy.
Psychoenalysis is a holistic system of psychological theory and therapy that aims to establish a natural flow between physical, psychological, and spiritual levels of functioning. It incorporates dynamic self-awareness processes and techniques for transforming unconscious patterns, fears, and conflicts. Unlike traditional psychoanalysis, which often remains within the boundaries of intellectual interpretation, Psychoenalysis integrates energy healing and a spiritual dimension that acknowledges the interconnectedness of all life.
As a clinical psychologist trained at UCLA and the California Institute of Integral Studies, my approach has always been interdisciplinary. Beyond my formal education in psychology, I have spent over twenty years studying and practicing energy psychology, Thought Field Therapy (TFT), ³ Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), ⁴ and PEAT. ⁵ Through my work in diverse clinical settings, from psychiatric clinics to private practice, I realized that the most profound healing occurs when we address the whole person.
How psychoenalysis works
Psychoenalysis is structured around several key principles.
Healing through relationship
The therapeutic relationship and creative empathy are at the core of this approach. Healing is not a one-sided interpretation of unconscious material but a dynamic interaction between therapist and client. The rapport and mutual trust between them allow for deeper exploration and transformation.
Uncovering and releasing unconscious blocks
Many mental struggles stem from deeply ingrained unconscious fears, conflicts, and limiting beliefs. Psychoenalysis, through techniques such as bio-energy activation and psychoenalytic free association, helps individuals bring these hidden aspects into consciousness, allowing for lasting change.
Integration of mind, body, and spirit
Unlike traditional psychotherapy, which often neglects the body's role in emotional healing, Psychoenalysis recognizes the physical and energetic dimensions of psychological distress. Our physical body, thoughts, emotions, and bio-energy all affect our well-being. Working with the bio-energy aspect can accelerate healing and personal growth.
Connection to consciousness
Beyond healing past wounds, Psychoenalysis encourages individuals to connect with collective consciousness. Inspired by the works of Jung and Assagioli, this approach acknowledges the existence of the self ⁶ and the transpersonal self, ⁷ a higher aspect of being that can guide individuals toward greater self-awareness and fulfillment.
Importance of the psychoenalytic approach
We live in a time when the limitations of strictly medical or psychological models of mental health are becoming increasingly apparent. The popularity of integrative and holistic approaches to wellness reflects a growing awareness that true healing requires addressing all aspects of a person's existence.
Recent advances in neuroscience, physics, and energy medicine confirm what many ancient traditions have long understood: everything is interconnected. Modern research in neuropsychoanalysis has attempted to validate the reality of unconscious conflict, while quantum physics has demonstrated that invisible forces shape the physical world. In this context, a new paradigm of therapy—one that integrates psychological insight with energetic and spiritual awareness—is not only beneficial but necessary. Many such approaches exist today, and psychoenalysis is one of them.
Discovery of psychoenalysis
My journey into psychoenalysis has been shaped by both academic training and personal experience. As a young psychology student at UCLA, I was consistently engaged in traditional psychotherapy models, yet something felt incomplete. While traveling in the Arizona desert, I first experienced profound spiritual insights, an initiation into a broader understanding of human consciousness. Those early experiences led me to explore philosophy, transpersonal psychology, and energy healing alongside my clinical studies.
Over the years, I have worked with a diverse range of individuals, from those struggling with severe mental illness to high-functioning professionals seeking deeper meaning in their lives. Through my work, I realized that true healing is not simply about managing symptoms but about awakening to one's full potential. Psychoenalysis was born from this realization, a synthesis of my lifelong study, practice, and passion for understanding the human mind, body, and spirit.
The future of psychoenalysis
As more individuals seek integrative healing methods, the psychoenalytic approach will resonate with people and continue to grow. I am currently working on my first book, which will explain this approach in greater detail. If you have ever felt that traditional psychotherapy alone does not fully address your needs or if you are curious about how deeper self-awareness can transform your life, I invite you to explore psychoenalysis. Healing is not just about understanding what is wrong but about discovering what is possible.
Slobodan Nesovic, CA licensed Clinical Psychologist
Slobodan Nesovic, PsyD, is a seasoned California-licensed clinical psychologist with a deep-rooted passion for psycho-spiritual development spanning over two decades. Inspired by spiritual experiences in the Arizona desert during his late teens, Slobodan embarked on a journey of self-discovery, delving into the works of Plato, Lao Tzu, Jung, and Nikola Tesla.
With over 17 years of experience, Slobodan integrates a unique approach to therapy—PsychoEnalysis—blending energy psychology, psychodynamic methods, and spirituality. As a psychologist and a Complete Meditation (CM) teacher, he empowers clients to navigate their journey to healing and self-discovery, leveraging his holistic understanding of human nature.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Slobodan is a dedicated father, quantum medicine enthusiast, and admirer of Nikola Tesla's work. A basketball lover, he even shared the court with future NBA player Marko Jaric. For a transformative experience tailored to mind and spirit, connect with Slobodan for a free 20-minute phone consultation at +1 747 327 6333 or click here.
References:
Callahan, R., & Trubo, R. (2001). Tapping the healer within: Using thought field therapy to instantly conquer your fears, anxieties, and emotional distress. McGraw-Hill Professional.
Gallo, F. P. (1999). Energy psychology: Explorations at the interface of energy, cognition, behavior, and health. CRC Press.
Slavinski, Z. (2002). PEAT: Primary Energy Activation and Transformation. BETA Foundation.
Jung, C. (2014). Aion: Researches into the Phenomenology of the Self.
