# Dr. Diego Busiol, PhD > Clinical Psychologist & Psychoanalyst ## Posts - [How Psychoanalysis Works (and Why It’s Different): Listening to the Letter](https://diegobusiol.com/how-psychoanalysis-works/): In this article, I describe how psychoanalysis works based on my personal interpretation and clinical practice: a Lacanian-inspired approach where language is central. What follows is not a textbook definition of the entire field, but a personal formulation of the analytic work. Listening to the unconscious We often move through life assuming we know exactly why we do what we do, and why we feel what we feel. Yet, almost everyone encounters moments where this certainty crumbles. You might find yourself trapped in a loop of repetitive behaviors, drawn to the same types of unsatisfactory relationships, or burdened by a […] - [Revisiting Psychoanalysis in Hong Kong: The Absent, the Present, and the Reinvented](https://diegobusiol.com/revisiting-psychoanalysis-in-hong-kong/): A Personal Note on Research and Practice Some years ago, I published a book that emerged from my PhD research and my first years of living and working in this city: Psychoanalysis in Hong Kong: The Absent, the Present, and the Reinvented (Routledge, 2017). I wrote it at a time when I was still trying to make sense of a puzzling discovery: that something which had shaped almost every corner of intellectual and clinical life in Europe—psychoanalysis—was almost completely absent here. This article is a brief introduction to that book, to the questions that gave rise to it, and to […] - [Those Who Fear Abandonment Haven’t Abandoned Themselves Enough](https://diegobusiol.com/fear-of-abandonment/): Summary The fear of abandonment is not simply the fear of losing someone, but the fear of losing access to oneself when the other serves as a guarantor of worth, coherence, and meaning. Some people become indispensable less for who they are and more for the structural function they perform: they reflect back a version of ourselves we struggle to sustain alone. This makes proximity feel vital, distance threatening, and silence dangerous. In the effort to keep the other close, one may slide into dependence, hypervigilance, and a pattern of self‑silencing. Psychoanalysis addresses this dynamic by helping the person return […] - [ADHD: What To Do if You Think You Have It — 4/4](https://diegobusiol.com/adhd-what-to-do/):   ADHD: What To Do if you think you might have it? This text is the fourth and final part of a series on ADHD. The earlier articles looked at how the diagnosis is constructed, what it illuminates, and what it risks leaving in the dark (read part 1, part 2, and part 3). In this last piece, I ask: what do people who identify with ADHD say truly helps them? And how can psychoanalysis offer not just strategies for managing symptoms, but a way of listening to what these symptoms may be revealing?   What Do People With ADHD […] - [ADHD: Do We Really Need the ADHD Label? — 3 / 4](https://diegobusiol.com/do-we-really-need-the-adhd-label/): Having traced the social and cultural spread of ADHD (see part 1 and part 2), we can now ask a deeper question: do we really need the ADHD label to understand what it names? Before exploring that, let’s briefly recapitulate what makes ADHD appear so pervasive today. Why Does ADHD Seem So Common? Because… a concise label offers relief, belonging, and direction; many modern conditions mimic or amplify its features; online culture spreads recognizable narratives quickly; a neurobiological frame lowers stigma and grants practical benefits; attention today is under chronic strain, making ADHD‑like experiences ordinary. The Narrative Advantage ADHD is […] - [ADHD and Modern Society — 2/4](https://diegobusiol.com/adhd-and-modern-society/): What promotes the symptoms currently grouped under the “ADHD” label? Why has this diagnosis crystallized now rather than earlier? If the first part explored the spread of the ADHD narrative, this part looks at the world said to sustain it — a world in which attention itself is under pressure. Some factors stand out: Anchors and Freedoms: Traditional vs. Modern Societies Traditions, routines, and strong social ties once acted as quiet cognitive scaffolds. They narrowed possibilities, defined roles, and stabilized the rhythms of effort. Anchors like these structure attention by reducing decision fatigue and maintaining continuity over time. Yet anchoring […] - [ADHD: Why It Seems Everywhere—and Why the Label Resonates — 1/4](https://diegobusiol.com/adhd-why-it-seems-everywhere/): This essay is the first of four parts in a series on ADHD and the modern condition of attention. Each piece explores a different dimension — from the social appeal of the diagnosis, to the pressures of contemporary life, to the deeper emotional and psychoanalytic layers beneath the symptom. In this first part, I explore why the label “ADHD” spreads so powerfully — what needs it names, what relief it offers, and how the modern media environment amplifies its success. Studies estimate that around 3–5% of adults (even less) meet criteria, yet ADHD seems to be everywhere. Many more people […] - [More Ways to Say It: On What Can Ignite Change in Analysis](https://diegobusiol.com/ignite-change-in-analysis/): Following my post the other day, I’m reminded how complex—and often underestimated—change really is. We change many times in life, in many ways. Change, broadly speaking Change is multifaceted and not always “for the better” or lasting. It can be sparked by outside influence, deep realization, rupture, or slow maturation. In broad terms, it can arise from: Imitation and suggestion: we pick up values and behaviors from our surroundings. Insight and crisis: realizations—or existential doubt—reorder priorities. Trauma and fear: shocks and avoidance reshape emotion and action. Bond and pressure: relationships and social norms pull us to adjust. Learning and biology: experience, age, […] - [When Change Begins: The Turning Point in Psychoanalysis](https://diegobusiol.com/when-change-begins/): Psychoanalysis is a process that seeks to uncover the unconscious dynamics influencing our actions, thoughts, and emotions. But for this journey to truly begin, something crucial needs to happen: a fundamental shift in how we approach our difficulties and ourselves. Many people come to analysis feeling stuck, frustrated, or even overwhelmed by their circumstances. Often, the first sessions are filled with lists of grievances—things that have gone wrong, people who have disappointed them, and the injustices they have faced. These initial expressions are valid and important, but they are only the starting point. Lasting change happens when the focus shifts […] - [The Möbius Strip of Expectations: When 'Others’ Demands' Keep Us Trapped](https://diegobusiol.com/mobius-strip-demands/): It is common in therapy to hear people describe a similar loop: on the one hand, they want to feel appreciated and indispensable; on the other, they feel suffocated by constant requests for help, favors, and responsibilities that seem to multiply endlessly. Many tell me: “Everyone needs something from me, and I just can’t take it anymore.” Take the case of Gustave. He is a brilliant, reliable person who is always ready to solve problems. He is the kind of person others turn to when something needs to be done well. But over time, this very reliability can become a […] - [The Mirror Stage: How Ideals and Desires Shape How We Perceive Ourselves (and the Gaze of Others)](https://diegobusiol.com/the-mirror-stage-how-ideals-and-desires-shape-how-we-perceive-ourselves-and-the-gaze-of-others/): Abstract This article explores the complex interplay between ideals, desires, and self-perception, drawing on psychoanalytic concepts such as Freud’s distinction between the “ideal ego” and the “ego ideal” and Lacan’s theory of the mirror stage. These frameworks reveal how our sense of self is shaped by identification with idealized images—mirrors that reflect not only who (we think) we are but also who we believe we must become. While these images provide coherence and aspiration, they also create tension and conflict, especially when they clash with our inner experiences or with how we navigate the world and its daily challenges. Through […] - [Therapeutic Approaches to Narcissism. Part 2](https://diegobusiol.com/therapeutic-approaches-to-narcissism-part-2/): Deconstructing Rigid Meanings Therapeutic approaches to narcissism are most effective when they address the rigid and polarized meanings that narcissists often impose on themselves and others. The process starts by questioning certainty and promoting curiosity. Moving beyond the fixed meanings of the narcissist’s imaginary involves a shift from absolute certainty to a space of exploration and interpretation. This means focusing on the underlying meaning of words, recognizing that these can carry multiple interpretations and are open to subjective understanding. This challenges the rigid, all-or-nothing thinking that often characterizes the narcissist’s worldview. For example, if a narcissist describes a situation where […] - [Therapeutic Approaches to Narcissism. Part 1](https://diegobusiol.com/therapeutic-approaches-to-narcissism-part-1/): I do not believe in a manualized method when it comes to therapeutic approaches to narcissism—or to any other symptom or disorder. Every story is unique and brings specific challenges; nonetheless, certain therapeutic considerations arise from a deeper understanding of the core struggles involved. In working with narcissistic patients, the therapeutic relationship is central, as it is in most cases. The therapist’s task is not simply to uphold boundaries, but to carefully attend to requests that would alter the therapeutic frame—such as demands for exceptions, special treatment, or discounts. It is also essential to listen closely to the potential for […] - [The Narcissist's Internal Struggle: The Illusion of Wholeness](https://diegobusiol.com/narcissism-the-illusion-of-wholeness/): Narcissism can be understood as a relentless pursuit of an elusive ideal: wholeness and coherence. This pursuit masks a deep-seated sense of fragmentation and a profound intolerance of anything that challenges the narcissist’s carefully constructed self-image. They strive to project a flawless façade, belying a profound vulnerability and terror of exposure. This central dynamic shapes their interactions, motivations, and experience of the world. The narcissist yearns for a fantasy of omnipotence and omniscience, an illusion of “knowing everything” and “being everything” to defend against underlying feelings of emptiness and inadequacy. This pursuit of completeness is inextricably linked to their meticulously […] - [Am I Special or Replaceable? Understanding the Quest for Validation](https://diegobusiol.com/am-i-special-or-replaceable/): At the heart of narcissism lies a pervasive, unquenchable thirst for validation. The narcissist constantly grapples with questions of self-worth: “How much do I matter? Do they admire me? Am I special?  Do they see me asreplaceable? Am I the one?” This fundamental need for external affirmation stems from a deep inner void, creating a profound paradox. While ostensibly focused on their own self-importance and independence, the narcissist is ironically tethered to the perceptions and judgments of others. This dependence has significant relational consequences. Preoccupied with their self-image and how others perceive them, the narcissist struggles to genuinely connect. They […] - [The Narcissist: Being vs. Appearing](https://diegobusiol.com/the-narcissist-being-vs-appearing/): The narcissist lives in a shimmering showcase of appearances, a world of mirrors and reflections where seeming matters more than being. Their energy is consumed by constructing an idealized image, a flawless facade to present to the world. The goal isn’t to become competent, but to appear competent. They aren’t generally interested in learning, personal growth, or the gradual mastery of skills, preferring the shortcut of illusion and the instant gratification of external admiration. Like an athlete who prioritizes expensive gear and a sculpted physique over rigorous training, or a musician who values a rockstar image over practicing their instrument, […] - [Narcissism and Relationships: The Lonely Throne](https://diegobusiol.com/narcissism-and-relationships-the-lonely-throne/): Narcissism and relationships can be a complex and often painful mix. The concept of narcissism itself carries a duality: a healthy love for oneself is not only beneficial but essential, echoing the Gospel’s wisdom to ‘love your neighbor as yourself.’ However, narcissism becomes a destructive force when rooted in a deeply negative self-image. This distorted self-perception can make life difficult for both the individual and those around them, fueling behaviors that undermine relationships and create a cycle of suffering. This article delves into the dynamics of pathological narcissism in relationships, exploring how a fragile sense of self can lead to […] - [Narcissism: Underlying Dynamics and Early Experiences](https://diegobusiol.com/narcissism-underlying-dynamics-and-early-experiences/): Childhood experiences significantly influence the development of narcissistic traits. Feeling loved is fundamental for healthy self-esteem. However, if love is conditional—whether through excessive praise for superficial achievements like appearance or popularity, or through neglect and devaluation—the child may develop a fragile sense of self, dependent on external validation. They learn to hide perceived weaknesses and embody an unattainable ideal of perfection to secure love and attention. This striving for perfection can lead to extraordinary achievements but also to constant frustration, the risk of emotional collapse, and difficulties forming healthy, reciprocal relationships. The Wound of Perceived Lack of Attention The development […] - [What is Narcissism? Understanding the Basics and Beyond](https://diegobusiol.com/what-is-narcissism/): In our era of selfies and influencers, social media can amplify narcissistic tendencies. This constant pursuit of external validation can blur the line between healthy self-esteem and destructive narcissism, potentially reaching the level of what psychiatrists call Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). But what does it truly mean to be narcissistic? The term is often misused to describe selfish or cynical behavior. However, narcissism is far more complex than simple egotism. It often stems from a deep-seated lack of self-worth.   What is Narcissism? A Definition and Explanation Narcissism is characterized by a preoccupation with oneself, a difficulty recognizing and valuing […] - [Understanding the Stigma of Narcissism](https://diegobusiol.com/understanding-the-stigma-of-narcissism/): In an age increasingly focused on mental health, the term “narcissist” is often misused as an insult—a disparaging label synonymous with “bad person,” “egotist,” or “manipulator.” This simplification is harmful, preventing individuals (and those who love them) from seeking help. Narcissistic personality traits are complex, with nuances and varying degrees of severity. Ignoring the underlying vulnerabilities promotes judgment and, paradoxically, confirms the narcissist’s assumptions. The indiscriminate use of this term should give us pause. This misuse is especially concerning in an era striving for mental health awareness and destigmatization. The stigma of narcissism further harms those struggling with these traits, […] ## Pages - [Newsletter](https://diegobusiol.com/join/) - [Privacy Policy](https://diegobusiol.com/privacy-policy/): Dr. Diego Busiol (“we,” “our,” “us”) is committed to protecting and respecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our website https://diegobusiol.com, interact with us through email, phone, or contact forms, or subscribe to our newsletter. By using this website, you agree to the practices described in this Privacy Policy. 1. Information We Collect We may collect the following types of personal data: Contact Information: Name, email address, phone number, and communication details when you contact us or schedule an appointment. Health-related Information: If you voluntarily provide information regarding […] - [Articles](https://diegobusiol.com/articles/): Articles In this section, you’ll find psychoanalytic articles inspired by my clinical experience, exploring themes that emerge from contemporary life and modern phenomena. I encourage you to share your thoughts, ask questions, or reach out directly if you’d like to learn more. Feel free to suggest topics or ideas for future articles—your input is always welcome. Latest Articles - [ADHD](https://diegobusiol.com/conditions-we-treat/adhd/): ADHD: Unraveling the Roots – A Psychoanalytic Perspective If you’re wondering if you have ADHD, you’re not alone. Many people experience similar struggles. 1. I think I have ADHD. How can I be sure? ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is not a disease with a clear-cut cause, but a label for a cluster of experiences and behaviors. It’s not something you definitively “have” or “don’t have.” It’s better understood as a constellation of symptoms—restlessness, inattention, impulsivity, forgetfulness, anger, and daydreaming—which are common experiences in our stimulus-filled world. Before accepting this label, explore the function of these experiences in your […] - [ADHD (test 2)](https://diegobusiol.com/adhd-test-2/): ADHD Test 2 This questionnaire helps you reflect on your childhood experiences with attention and focus, specifically between the ages of 5 and 12. It includes 45 questions covering various aspects of childhood behavior, including attention, focus, mood, and social interactions. While it’s a bit longer than some questionnaires, the detailed information you provide creates a more complete picture, leading to a deeper self-understanding. It’s worth the time! Try to find a quiet space where you can answer thoughtfully without distractions. The questionnaire should take about 10 minutes. Recall your experiences as accurately as possible. Your responses are completely confidential […] - [Cookie Policy (EU)](https://diegobusiol.com/cookie-policy-eu/): [cmplz-document type=”cookie-statement” region=”eu”] - [Psychological well-being](https://diegobusiol.com/psychological-well-being/): Psychological Well-being Questionnaire This questionnaire is designed to help you assess your level of psychological well-being, which encompasses various aspects of how you feel about yourself and your life. This assessment is not a diagnostic tool. It’s intended for self-reflection and to provide a starting point for exploring your thoughts and feelings about your overall well-being. The questions are designed to help you gain a better understanding of your strengths and areas for potential growth across these different dimensions. This questionnaire should take approximately 15-20 minutes to complete. We recommend finding a quiet space where you can answer thoughtfully and […] - [Bipolar Disorder](https://diegobusiol.com/conditions-we-treat/bipolar-disorder/): Beyond Depression: Understanding Bipolar Disorder in Hong Kong While depression manifests as persistent sadness, apathy, and loss of interest, bipolar disorder encompasses a wider spectrum of mood experiences, including the heightened state known as mania. As a psychoanalyst based in Hong Kong, I offer a unique perspective on understanding and treating this complex condition. The Dynamics of Mania Mania is characterized by an elevated, euphoric, and expansive mood, often accompanied by increased energy, decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, and rapid speech. Initially, this state can feel exhilarating, leading to increased productivity, creativity, and a sense of boundless possibility. However, […] - [Loss of Direction](https://diegobusiol.com/conditions-we-treat/loss-of-direction/): Feeling Lost? Try Psychoanalysis in Hong Kong “Midway upon the journey of our life I found myself within a forest dark, For the straightforward pathway had been lost.” (Dante Alighieri, The Divine Comedy, The Inferno, Canto I) Dante’s timeless words capture the universal human experience of feeling lost. This resonates deeply in Hong Kong’s demanding environment, mirroring the challenges of many modern metropolises. Rapid changes, precarious work, and transient relationships can create a pervasive sense of uncertainty. Unlike traditional societies, which offered more defined structures and direction, the fluidity and boundless opportunities of modern life, amplified by Hong Kong’s unique […] - [Low Self-Esteem](https://diegobusiol.com/conditions-we-treat/low-self-esteem/): Struggling with Low Self-Esteem in Hong Kong? Here, we explore the roots of low self-esteem and how psychoanalysis can help you find a more authentic sense of self and greater confidence In today’s fast-paced, achievement-oriented Hong Kong, the pressure to succeed can be immense. This constant striving for perfection, coupled with cultural expectations and family pressures, often contributes to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. Many individuals in Hong Kong find themselves struggling with self-doubt, unsure of their worth, and unable to reach their full potential. Psychoanalysis: A Path to Self-Discovery Psychoanalysis offers a unique approach to understanding and addressing […] - [Imposter Syndrome](https://diegobusiol.com/conditions-we-treat/imposter-syndrome/): Understanding and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome Imposter syndrome isn’t a clinical diagnosis, but rather a common psychological experience where individuals doubt their skills and accomplishments, feeling like frauds despite evidence of their competence. This often leads to feelings of shame, anxiety, and confusion, making it difficult to discuss, even with close friends and family. High-achieving individuals in Hong Kong are particularly susceptible to imposter syndrome, regardless of their actual abilities or external validation. If you’re struggling with imposter syndrome in Hong Kong, understanding its roots and seeking appropriate treatment can be transformative. Recognizing the Signs of Imposter Syndrome Imposter syndrome can […] - [Anger](https://diegobusiol.com/conditions-we-treat/anger/): Transform Your Anger with Psychoanalysis in Hong Kong Do you often feel angry or frustrated, especially within the hectic context of Hong Kong? Anger is a fundamental human emotion, but when it becomes pervasive and uncontrolled, it can seriously compromise your relationships, your health, and your overall well-being. Learning to recognize, understand, and transform anger is essential for living a fuller, more satisfying, and serene life. The Many Faces of Anger: Anger manifests itself in surprisingly diverse ways. Sometimes it explodes in sudden, uncontrolled outbursts. Other times, it creeps in subtly as constant irritability, causing us to overreact even to […] - [Obsessions](https://diegobusiol.com/conditions-we-treat/obsessions/): Trapped in Your Thoughts? Overcome Obsessive Thoughts in Hong Kong Understanding the roots of obsessive thoughts, their impact, and how psychoanalysis can help. Have you ever found yourself mentally stuck, replaying a past event over and over, desperately trying to rewrite the ending? This relentless replaying, this clinging to a particular scenario, can feel like grasping for control, a desperate attempt to find a different outcome. While this mental process might offer a temporary illusion of security, it can quickly turn into a prison. This rigid thinking, the need for control, and the difficulty accepting reality can severely limit our […] - [Sexual Concerns](https://diegobusiol.com/conditions-we-treat/sexual-concerns/): Overcoming Sexual Concerns with Psychoanalysis in Hong Kong Experiencing sexual difficulties is common and can cause significant distress, particularly in the unique cultural context of Hong Kong, where open discussions about sex can be challenging. I offer confidential support and guidance for individuals navigating a wide range of sexual difficulties. Areas of Exploration: Sexual Functioning: Difficulties with desire, arousal, orgasm, pain during intercourse, or concerns about performance (e.g., premature or delayed ejaculation, erectile difficulties). Compulsive Sexual Behaviors: Patterns of sexual behavior that feel out of control, causing distress and impacting other areas of life (e.g., excessive pornography use, preoccupation with […] - [Relationship Issues](https://diegobusiol.com/conditions-we-treat/relationship-issues/): Navigating Relationship Issues in Hong Kong: A Psychoanalytic Approach Whether you’re struggling with romantic partnerships, family dynamics, friendships, or simply a sense of disconnection, understanding the underlying issues is the first step towards building more fulfilling relationships. Psychoanalysis helps you navigate these complexities, addressing both the universal struggles inherent in human connection and the specific challenges of Hong Kong. Universal Relationship Challenges & Personal Struggles: Certain relationship dynamics are universally challenging, often intertwined with personal struggle Personal and Personality Challenges: A range of personal issues can significantly impact relationships. These include low self-esteem, fear of abandonment, insecurity, a need for […] - [Psychosomatic Issues](https://diegobusiol.com/conditions-we-treat/psychosomatic-issues/): Understanding and Addressing Psychosomatic Disorders in Hong Kong Are you experiencing persistent physical symptoms that doctors can’t seem to explain? Pain, digestive issues, fatigue – the distress is real, but the cause remains elusive. You might be struggling with a psychosomatic disorder. Psychosomatic disorders, also known as somatoform disorders, involve physical symptoms significantly influenced by psychological factors like stress, anxiety, or emotional distress. These symptoms are real and can be debilitating, despite the absence of identifiable physical causes through standard medical tests. It’s crucial to understand that these disorders are not imagined; they represent a complex mind-body interaction. Common Psychosomatic […] - [Anxiety](https://diegobusiol.com/conditions-we-treat/anxiety/): Anxiety Therapy — Find Relief with Psychoanalysis Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety? You’re not alone. Anxiety can manifest as a persistent unease, a heavy weight on your chest, or a constant fear of the unknown. While experiencing some anxiety is a normal part of life, excessive anxiety can significantly disrupt your well-being and prevent you from living fully. Read on to discover the common roots of anxiety and how psychoanalysis can help you find relief. Understanding Anxiety: Beyond the Surface Anxiety is a complex emotion characterized by apprehension, worry, and fear. It often revolves around the unsettling questions: “What does the […] - [Addictions](https://diegobusiol.com/conditions-we-treat/addictions/): Discover How Psychoanalysis Can Help with Addiction Addictions are a complex and increasingly widespread phenomenon in our modern society. Here we explore various types of addictions, their causes, and how psychoanalysis can help. Addictions: When Pleasure Becomes a Prison Addictions manifest in many forms, from the most commonly recognized substance abuse issues like drug addiction and alcohol addiction to the often more subtle behavioral addictions, such as addiction to sex and pornography, compulsive overeating, gambling, gaming addiction, compulsive shopping, and excessive smartphone use. If you are struggling with addiction and feel that it is limiting your life and relationships, psychoanalysis […] - [Eating Disorders](https://diegobusiol.com/conditions-we-treat/eating-disorders/): Trapped in a Difficult Relationship with Food? Psychoanalytic Therapy for Eating Disorders Can Help Do you feel your relationship with food is controlling your life? You’re not alone. Eating disorders like anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and even struggles with obesity often mask deeper emotional pain. While food may seem like the central problem, the true roots lie beneath the surface. Psychoanalytic therapy can help you uncover these hidden dynamics and find lasting freedom. Beyond the Plate: Understanding the Visible Behaviors Eating disorders manifest in various ways, often through noticeable behaviors related to food: Anorexia: Severe restriction of food intake, often […] - [Panic Attacks](https://diegobusiol.com/conditions-we-treat/panic-attacks/): Overcoming Panic Attacks: A Psychoanalytic Approach in Hong Kong Are you experiencing sudden, intense episodes of fear and anxiety that strike without warning? You might be having panic attacks. In Hong Kong’s fast-paced environment, panic attacks can be particularly debilitating. Here, we explore the symptoms, underlying causes, and how panic attacks treatment with psychoanalysis can help you find lasting relief – read on to learn more. Recognizing Panic Attack Symptoms Panic attacks affect many people in Hong Kong, where the fast-paced lifestyle can exacerbate stress and anxiety. Symptoms typically include: Physical symptoms: Heart palpitations, shortness of breath, excessive sweating, trembling, […] - [Self Esteem](https://diegobusiol.com/self-esteem/): Self-Esteem Questionnaire This questionnaire is designed to help you assess your level of self-esteem, which refers to your overall sense of self-worth and value. It explores various aspects of self-esteem, including your beliefs about your abilities, your self-perception, and your overall satisfaction with yourself. It’s important to note that this questionnaire is not a diagnostic tool. It’s intended for self-reflection and to provide a starting point for exploring your thoughts and feelings about yourself. The questions are designed to help you gain a better understanding of how your self-esteem might be impacting your life. This questionnaire should take approximately 5 […] - [Impostor Syndrome](https://diegobusiol.com/impostor-syndrome/): Impostor Syndrome Assessment This questionnaire is designed to help you assess your experience with the Impostor Phenomenon (IP), a psychological pattern where individuals doubt their skills and accomplishments, fearing being exposed as a “fraud.” This self-assessment explores various aspects of the Impostor Phenomenon, such as self-doubt, attributing success to external factors, and fear of failure. It’s important to note that this questionnaire is not a diagnostic tool. It’s intended for self-reflection and to provide a starting point for exploring your feelings and thoughts related to the Impostor Phenomenon. The questions are designed to help you gain a better understanding of […] - [Attachment Type](https://diegobusiol.com/attachment-type/): Attachment Type Assessment This questionnaire invites reflection on and understanding of closeness, independence, and emotional expression in your friendships, romantic relationships, and family dynamics. This is not a diagnostic test and cannot be used to diagnose any specific relationship issue. This questionnaire is relatively short and should take approximately 10 minutes to complete. We recommend finding a quiet space where you can answer thoughtfully without distractions. Your responses are completely confidential and for your personal use. We can discuss them together in a consultation if you wish. For each statement, indicate how much it generally reflects your feelings in close […] - [ADHD (test 1)](https://diegobusiol.com/adhd/): ADHD Test 1 This questionnaire helps you reflect on your experiences related to attention and focus. It’s important to emphasize that this is not a diagnostic test and cannot be used to make an ADHD diagnosis. Instead, it’s a starting point for self-exploration and gaining a deeper understanding of your experiences with attention, focus, and related behaviors. The questions cover various aspects of attention and focus in daily life. This questionnaire is relatively short and should take approximately 5-10 minutes to complete. We recommend finding a quiet space where you can answer thoughtfully without distractions. Your responses will remain completely […] - [Depression](https://diegobusiol.com/conditions-we-treat/depression/): Depression in Hong Kong: A Psychoanalyst’s Perspective If you’re struggling with feelings of persistent sadness, emptiness, or a loss of interest in life, and you’re in Hong Kong, you’re not alone. Depression is a complex and deeply personal experience that affects millions of people worldwide, including many individuals in our fast-paced city. As a psychoanalyst and psychotherapist based in Hong Kong, I’m here to help you navigate this challenging journey. While there are common symptoms of depression, such as depressed mood, apathy, or sleep and appetite disturbances, it’s important to note that each individual may experience a unique combination of […] - [Conditions We Treat](https://diegobusiol.com/conditions-we-treat/): Finding Mental Well-being in Hong Kong: A Psychoanalytic Approach to Modern Challenges The relentless pace of life in Hong Kong can take a toll. If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply a sense of unease, psychoanalysis can help you understand the underlying causes and rediscovering a sense of well-being. In psychoanalysis, we don’t focus solely on symptoms because the same symptom can have profoundly different causes and meanings for different people. Simply stating “I have this” doesn’t capture the complexity of the underlying issues. As a psychoanalyst, I specialize in listening to the unconscious and aim to […] - [General Mental Health Questionnaire](https://diegobusiol.com/general-mental-health-questionnaire/): General Mental Health Questionnaire This questionnaire helps you reflect on your psychological well-being. This is not a diagnostic test and cannot be used to make a diagnosis. Rather, it’s a starting point for self-exploration and gaining a deeper understanding of your mental and emotional health. The questions cover various aspects, including mood, relationships, and behaviors. This questionnaire can help identify potential areas for growth and provide insights for a possible further discussion. This questionnaire is fairly comprehensive and may take approximately 10 minutes to complete. I recommend setting aside uninterrupted time in a quiet environment to allow for focused reflection. […] - [Videos](https://diegobusiol.com/videos/): Videos In this section, I share brief psychoanalytic insights and reflections inspired by my clinical practice. These videos, drawn from my YouTube channel and Instagram reels, explore how psychoanalysis works in practice and why it remains relevant today. My aim is to make psychoanalytic ideas more accessible by opening a window onto the analytic process and the questions that arise from contemporary clinical experience. Videos from my Instagram page diego_busiol 🧠 Psychotherapist ✍️ Author 📚 Clin Psych (MA), Licensed Psychotherapist (Italy), PhD (HK) 💭 Sharing insights on psychoanalysis 🗣️ Eng and Italian A signifier is a word whose meaning depends […] - [Publications](https://diegobusiol.com/publications/): Publications Below is a list of selected publications. Lacanian Psychoanalysis in Practice In this book, fourteen Lacanian psychoanalysts from Italy and France present how they listen and understand clinical questions, and how they operate in session. More than a theoretical ‘introduction to Lacan’, this book stems from clinical issues, is written by practicing psychoanalysts and not only presents theoretical concepts, but also their use in practice. Available on Amazon – click here Psychoanalysis in Hong Kong: The Absent, the Present, and the Reinvented How is it possible that a phenomenon like psychoanalysis, which has dominated the cultural and intellectual life […] - [Home](https://diegobusiol.com/): Feeling Lost or Confused About Yourself? Psychoanalysis Can Help You Find Your Way Schedule an appointment Finding Direction Through Psychoanalysis Life can sometimes feel overwhelming, bringing emotions, thoughts, or existential issues that cause pain, confusion, and even despair. You may feel a discomfort that you can’t quite explain, and there may be a part of you that you don’t understand. This is where psychoanalysis comes in — a place where these emotions, thoughts, or doubts can be expressed, put into words, and felt without being overwhelmed by them. In the encounter with an analyst, you can explore the possible causes […] - [Contact](https://diegobusiol.com/contact/): Contact Write for further information, and schedule your first consultation. Dr. Diego Busiol is a certified Clinical Psychologist and Psychotherapist (Psychoanalysis) with a private practice in Central, Hong Kong. - [About sessions](https://diegobusiol.com/appointments/): About Sessions Dr. Diego Busiol provides psychoanalysis in Central, Hong Kong, in a safe and confidential space. Arrange a consultation today by sending an email to diegobusiol@gmail.com or by calling/texting +852 640 27 817 or by filling the contact form. form is here Session Duration and Expectations Sessions are generally 50 minutes long. We will discuss together the type of work we can do, depending on your expectations and circumstances. Some people feel a difference after only a few sessions. However, learning to understand the unconscious takes time because it involves listening and thinking in ways that are very different […] - [About Me](https://diegobusiol.com/about-me/): About Dr. Diego Busiol, PhD Dr. Diego Busiol is a certified Clinical Psychologist and Psychotherapist (specialized in Psychoanalysis) with over 20 years of experience in the field of mental health. He operates a private practice in Central, Hong Kong. He loves his job. Education and Early Career Dr. Busiol obtained a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology in Italy, followed by a rigorous four-year degree in Psychotherapy, also in Italy. He began his career in various psychiatric community residences, gaining invaluable experience in addressing severe mental health issues. Transition to Hong Kong In 2010, Dr. Busiol moved to Hong Kong to […] - [What Is Psychoanalysis](https://diegobusiol.com/psychoanalysis/): What is Psychoanalysis? Psychoanalysis, developed by Sigmund Freud, is a unique therapeutic approach that focuses on exploring the unconscious mind. Have you ever wondered why you keep repeating the same patterns or why certain feelings seem to linger no matter what you do? Psychoanalysis may help you uncover the underlying reasons and open the door to meaningful change. Our behaviors, thoughts, and desires are influenced by parts of ourselves that we are unaware of (unconscious). In sessions, the analyst helps you uncover these hidden parts and understand the unconscious logic that affects your actions. This process can lead to profound […] [comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)