psychodynamic psychotherapy; insight-oriented therapy

Contraindications

• agoraphobia (no evidence base)

Procedure

• focuses on unconscious processes as they are manifested in the patient's present behavior
• goals are
  • patient self-awareness
  • patient understanding of the influence of the past on present behavior
• operates on an interpretive-supportive continuum
• emphasis is placed on more interpretive or supportive interventions depending on the patient's needs
• involves careful attention to the therapist-patient interaction, with thoughtfully timed interpretation of transference & resistance embedded in a sophisticated appreciation of the therapist's contribution to the two-person interaction
• focuses on issues such as:
  • unresolved grief
  • self integration
  • existential concerns
  • interpersonal problems
• duration of therapy:
  • no generally accepted standard
  • range: 3 months to 20 years

Notes

• unclear how this differs from cognitive behavioral therapy other than contraindication for agoraphobia

More general terms

• psychotherapy

More specific terms

• brief dynamic therapy (BDT)

Additional terms

• cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)