Comparative meta-theoretical studies show multifaceted similarities between psychoanalysis and qualitative factor analysis (QualFA). This new method of empirical research can be con-sidered the qualitative equivalent of quantitative factor analysis. Different from cluster analy-sis, factor analysis intends to reduce variables and discover underlying principles of mental processes by forming bundles of interconnected variables. Since comparable techniques also characterise (clinical) psychoanalysis, this article highlights three factor types linking psychoa-nalysis and QualFA: (i) essence factors as ‘condensed’ unconscious material, (ii) process fac-tors representing dynamic mechanisms such as repression and sublimation, (iii) theory factors such as the id or the ego. Complementary to statistical power in quantitative research, QualFA speaks of epistemological power to estimate the value of psychoanalytic discovery. The con-sistency of psychoanalytic clinical data is described as qualitative inversion of Cronbach’s Alpha; their inner logic is mirrored by the construct of “qualitative linear combination’. While quantitative factor analysis uses distinct methods to calculate numerical data, QualFA pro-cesses verbal, body expressive and artistic data through heuristic and/or theory-guided ap-proaches. Application of psychoanalytic principles gives rise to the new model of psychoana-lytic qualitative factor analysis. Vice versa, QualFA provides a novel scientific framework for psychoanalysis.