Abstract:

Adult survivors of abuse require a slower progression in treatment. Profoundly abused patients suffering from pre-oedipal conditions may become overstimulated using gestalt methods. This paper will focus on reducing stimulation in the patient using methods borrowed from modern psychoanalysis, which was developed by Hyman Spotnitz. The author argues for a combined approach that emphasizes support rather then frustration in the development of the treatment process.

Key Words: adult survivors of abuse, gestalt therapy, modern psychoanalysis, stimulation reduction

This article describes a qualitative study of helpful aspects of the therapeutic relationship in Integrative Psychotherapy. Participants of the study were sixteen clients who were in the process of Integrative Psychotherapy for at least a year. Participants were interviewed with the adapted version of the Change Interview (Elliott, 1999), which involves a semi-structured empathic exploration of the client's experience in therapy.

Abstract:

Therapeutic Involvement is an integral part of all effective psychotherapy. This article is written to illustrate the concept of Therapeutic Involvement in working within a therapeutic relationship within the transference -- and with active expressive and experiential methods to resolve traumatic experiences, relational disturbances and life shaping decisions.

Key Words: relational psychotherapy; expressive methods; integrative psychotherapy; therapeutic involvement

This closing keynote address was delivered at the International Integrative Psychotherapy Association�s 9th Biennial Conference, 19-23 March 2019 in Montpellier, France. It describes the history and eight essential points of a developmentally based, relationally focused integrative psychotherapy. Therapeutic presence is the concept that unites each of the essential points, which include: the centrality of relationship, awareness of phases of child development, current enactment of the past, attending to the person�s body and unconscious relational patterns, the use of child therapy methods with adults, the understanding provided by the theories of ego states, and facilitating change only after the individual has an understanding of the function of his or her behavior.

Keywords: Integrative psychotherapy, relational psychotherapy, relationship, presence, child development, enactments, unconscious patterns, ego states, paradoxical theory of change, history of integrative psychotherapy

Abstract:

In the article I describe the integrative psychotherapy of the client who showed an avoidant state of mind. I explore how in two and a half years of psychotherapeutic treatment, in a sensitive and caring therapeutic relationship, the client process of integration and development of a secure state of mind is unfolding. The client is becoming more open and accepting of her own internal states, particularly her vulnerability and the need for having a secure, warm and loving relationship with another. An increased contact with self is enabling her to make important decisions and implement changes into her life. Theory of attachment is used as important guideline for diagnosis, treatment planning and understanding of the psychotherapeutic process.

Key Words: attachment theory; integrative psychotherapy; avoidant attachment style; case study; EMDR