It doesn't have the same empirical results as mainstream therapies i.e. CBT, and that Freudian theory is used typically to analyse texts more than anything else, but what exactly about it work for you? How do you apply it to yourself?

Also, how would I know if it's right for me? My issues feel straightforward but are sometimes hard to place, especially since therapists can't really give you guidance beyond 'reflect more,' which is something I have issues with, so I wonder if psychoanalysis could help. A fear I have is that that psychoanalytical thought might be hard to apply or might not resonate

Hard question to answer because since I read Freud and Jung when i was very very young, it kind of became a second nature to look at things through that lense. Its like asking me "how to get into literary analysis" or "how do you relate your life to political events" or something. I dont consciously do it.

But for instance, when waking up and recounting my dreams, the symbolism is evident to me and also very revealing of hidden fears and desires. Or sometimes I'll be having certain thoughts and I'll catch myself like "oh thats typical of my (...)"

Actually, upon thinking about it, theres has been a more conscious effort since getting really into Lacan. I was reading him a lot and even more reading what other people wrote about his thoughts and applying certain concepts to my own issues. Like specifically irw the drive and with desire. Seeing things under a certain perspective helps you shift your attitude towards it.

Maybe this is evident, but as a last addition, therapy happens 99,9% outside of your therapist's office.