This is interesting to me as my T is also psychodynamic and I have felt some of the things you have mentioned. I think part of the psychodynamic style is to bring out the transference and discuss it, right? For me, the hardest part is right at the beginning where he sits quietly without expression, waiting for me to lead the discussion. My father was quiet and often seemed stressed or even angry, and I would try to think of things to say to impress him or interest him or get him to change his mood. My brother could do this easily but I could not and I often felt ashamed about it or inferior because I did not have this skill. I get that same feeling during the first 15-30 seconds (sometimes longer) of each session. The difference is that my T typically responds in some way whereas my father did not always. I’ve told my T that I’m uncomfortable with the beginnings of our sessions, but I’ve never told him why. I guess I should, and I really think it would be completely appropriate for you to bring it up as well because what you said makes so much sense.

Another option would be to try a different type of therapy. I have spent a lot of time recently complaining to my T about our therapy, and he has replied that he does not do supportive therapy, but there are plenty of people who do and that might be a better fit for some. Despite my complaints I am still pretty motivated and interested in this type of therapy so I plan to continue for now, but I think it’s nice to know there are other options out there.