Full Description
This book offers a comprehensive introduction to Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP), covering its theoretical foundations, core techniques, and practical applications.
The author first introduces six key psychodynamic concepts essential for ISTDP in an accessible, jargon-free way, then shifts focus to building strong conscious therapeutic alliances. Finally, core ISTDP techniques are clearly explained and demonstrated. Through clinical examples and real therapy transcripts, this book illustrates how to effectively integrate ISTDP to resolve unconscious conflicts by addressing feelings, anxiety, and defenses.
Whether you are a student or a beginner therapist new to ISTDP, or an experienced practitioner looking to revisit the fundamentals of this exciting method, this book serves as an accessible, relevant, and indispensable resource.
Contents
Introduction Part 1 - What is Psychodynamic Therapy? 1. The Unconscious 2. Internal Conflicts 3. Transference 4. Defense Mechanisms 5. Symptoms 6. Developmental Psychology, Genetic and Social Factors 7. The Sweet Child Part 2 - Dynamic Inquiry and Alliance 8. Case Formulation and Alliance 9. Agreement on Goals 10. Agreement on the Therapeutic Task 11. Therapeutic Bond and Trust Part 3. Alliance-Guided Short-Term Dynamic Cooperation 12. How to do Defense Work? 13. Restructuring Defenses 14. How to Do Anxiety Work? 15. How to Work with Feelings 16. Connecting the Dots Bibliography
