Sections
Psychodynamics: Introduction | Psychodynamic Theories of Addiction | Application of Psychodynamics to Treatment | Indications and Rationale for Psychodynamic Psychotherapy | Contraindications for Psychodynamic Psychotherapy | Initiation of Treatment | Session Frequency, Setting, and Goals | General Technical Aspects of Treatment | Initial Focus and Phases of Treatment | Relapse | Acceptance of Self in Recovery | An Ego Psychological Model of Rehabilitation | Applications of Psychodynamics to Groups and Self-Help | The Patient–Therapist Relationship | Myths and Pitfalls to Avoid in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy | Treatment Outcome Research | Neurobiology | Implications for Research | Conclusion | Key Points | References | Suggested Reading
Excerpt
Psychoanalysis and psychodynamic theory are
fundamental to modern psychiatric practice, including addiction
treatment. Although some investigators have argued that psychodynamic
treatment has only a minor role in the treatment of substance abuse
(Vaillant 1995), others have shown how psychodynamic
understanding can add depth to work with individuals and groups,
further the rehabilitation process (Dodes and Khantzian 2004; Frances et al. 1989; Khantzian 1997), and increase the
usefulness of 12-step programs (Dodes 1988). As part
of a transtheoretical integrated treatment model, sophisticated
understanding of psychodynamic principles can be used by the therapist
to help the addicted patient recognize that he or she has a problem
and then to identify what might provide effective motivation for
that individual to change. This approach helps patients in actualizing
their wish to change by helping them move along the continuum from
contemplation of a problem, such as smoking, to contemplation of
the need for change, to taking action and then maintaining abstinence.