Video games in psychotherapy.

Video games have found their way into the clinical care of youth in most medical fields, and academic interest in their use is increasing steadily. The popularity of video games among youth may qualify them as a useful tool in psychotherapy for children and adolescents. Limited literature on use of video games in mental health care suggests that they can help young patients become more cooperative and enthusiastic about psychotherapy. Recent experience suggests that video games may facilitate therapeutic relationships, complement the psychological assessment of youth by evaluating cognitive skills, and elaborate and clarify conflicts during the therapy process. Concerns about video game content, perceived effects on youth, and lack of familiarity with this medium may form a barrier in their use in therapy offices. Further research on the benefits of video game use in psychotherapy, including patient characteristics that may moderate outcomes, is needed. Finally, future collaborations between clinicians and video game developers may produce specific games to be used in psychotherapy. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Ethical issues in psychotherapy research: Problems in a collaborative clinical trials study.

Addresses ethical issues of psychotherapy research in the context of the pilot study phase of a large collaborative study that examined 2 forms of brief psychotherapy (cognitive-behavior and interpersonal) for the treatment of depression. The issues include those that emanated from the use of a clinical trials design (e.g., random treatment assignment, control conditions) and those derived from the collaborative nature of the research (e.g., comprehensibility of informed consent forms, security of data transmission). (41 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Income and outcome.

B. F. Riess's (see record 1967-13753-001) finding that patients involved in psychotherapy experience a greater increase in income than that expected on the basis of Department of Labor statistics is reexamined in the light of reports that men involved in exercise programs experience significant behavioral changes. The income change of 19 men involved in a physical exercise program with no psychotherapeutic intent was determined and found to be greater than that expected on the basis of Department of Labor statistics. The result is discussed in terms of the methodology of psychotherapy research, and the need for multiple-comparison groups, rather than simple "control" groups, in psychotherapy outcome studies is suggested. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

The practice of brief therapy.

Examined therapist, patient, and system attitudinal factors in brief therapy practice. Attitudinal factors in brief and long-term therapy are contrasted, and technical treatment issues, patient selection, dangers, and future issues in brief therapy are discussed. Salient technical issues in brief psychotherapy include the maintenance of a clear and specific focus, a high level of therapist activity, flexible use of interventions, and encouragement of client activities outside therapy. Rather than presenting brief therapy as a specific school or model of treatment, an attempt is made to integrate various approaches that can make therapy beneficial within a well-planned, limited amount of time. (58 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Dynamics of intergestural timing: a perturbation study of lip-larynx coordination

Cancer is associated with significant psychosocial morbidity. Although psychodynamic psychotherapy is a valuable intervention for some cancer patients, this modality has been underutilized because psychotherapy with medically ill patients has been linked historically to work with patients who have psychosomatic illnesses. Psychotherapy with patients who have cancer has unique features, such as the prominence of illness-related issues during the initial phase of treatment, the mixture of supportive and interpretive therapy, focused goals, and special issues pertaining to the transference/countertransference field. Understanding of those special issues will improve psychiatrists' ability to use long-term psychotherapy as an effective psychosocial intervention for patients with cancer.     

Schizophrenia and therapist involvement: Changing the practice of four major psychotherapies.

Describes how therapy experience with schizophrenic patients has impacted on 4 therapeutic approaches—existential psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, client-centered psychotherapy, and family therapy. It is suggested that such experience has led to similar therapist-centered modifications in each of the 4 psychotherapies and that a cross-relevancy between the treatment of schizophrenia and all other psychological disorders has emerged. Aspects of therapy considered include the interpersonal nature of the analytic situation, the communication of empathy, and intervention with dysfunctional family systems. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Review of The Mind in Therapy: Cognitive Science for Practice.

Reviews the book, The Mind in Therapy: Cognitive Science for Practice by Katherine D. Arbuthnott, Dennis W. Arbuthnott and Valerie A. Thompson (see record 2005-13477-000). In this text, the authors apply the conceptual underpinnings of cognitive science, and its empirical findings, to particular practical issues. In 16 chapters, the authors review different areas of cognitive research and emphasize findings relevant to the theoretical and applied aspects of psychotherapy. Each chapter begins with general definitions of key terms and explains how various cognitive constructs, and the research literature surrounding them, are important to psychotherapy. Many chapters also include case illustrations to translate these concepts into application. The goal of the book--to increase clinicians' understanding of the cognitive processes and mechanisms involved in therapy and to encourage practitioners to integrate this knowledge within the treatments that they provide--is certainly achieved. Practitioners who read this text will be more cognizant of the cognitive processes that influence treatment and may be more deliberate in their use of cognitive mechanisms in therapy. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

First pregnancy: Therapeutic issues for both female and male psychotherapists.

Discusses the reactions of psychotherapy clients to their therapist's 1st pregnancy, including the stimulation of unresolved oedipal and early developmental conflicts, fear of rejection and abandonment, and separation anxiety. Intensification of a maternal transference, sexual identity issues, and maternal loss and deprivation issues, along with hostile fantasies toward the unborn child and envy of the therapist as a mother and a sexual and fertile person, may arise. The reactions of the female therapist to her pregnancy may include emotional changes related to hormonal fluctuations, fatigue, and a growing sense of physical vulnerability; distraction due to the kicking of the fetus; and reduced functioning as a therapist due to feelings of fear, anger, guilt, and confusion over leaving her patients. Despite the paucity of research into the impact of impending parenthood on male therapists, it is suggested that they may experience many of the same role changes and conflicts, emotions, and reactions experienced by female therapists. Two case vignettes are presented to illustrate patient and therapist reactions to pregnancy, and suggestions to help both therapists and clients prepare to deal with issues surrounding the pregnancy are offered. (12 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Smoked cocaine self-administration in females and voucher incentives for abstinence

Although some individuals are able to cope well with the challenges posed by HIV and AIDS, others experience psychological difficulties. This article reviews factors that facilitate or hinder successful coping with HIV including preexisting psychological functioning, medical health status, quality and adequacy of social support, stress-and-coping style, and perceived expected benefits of treatment. The article reviews studies evaluating the effects of group psychotherapy intervention for persons living with HIV. The article then describes clinical issues encountered in therapy groups for persons with HIV. These clinical issues include the presence of coexisting problems unrelated to HIV/AIDS, disclosure of HIV-positive serostatus to others, making changes in transmission-risk-behavior practices, AIDS-related bereavement and caregiving stress, establishing social supports, adhering to medical care regimens, and developing a positive self-identity as a person living with HIV. Practical considerations of group therapy for HIV-positive clients are also described.     

The future of psychotherapy: A Delphi poll.

Predicted psychotherapy trends in the next decade by using the Delphi poll. 36 therapists and researchers completed a 100-item questionnaire assessing possible changes in therapeutic interventions, psychotherapists, therapy modalities, theoretical orientations, research findings, and professional issues. Results indicate that therapy will become more cognitive behavioral, present centered, problem specific, and briefer; cathartic, aversive, and dynamic approaches are expected to decrease. Family and marital therapy are predicted to markedly increase; long-term individual modalities are expected to markedly decrease. Optimistic forecasts include an increase in women and minority therapists, accelerated services to underserved populations, coverage under national health insurance, and standard implementation of peer review. One emerging pattern suggests that psychotherapists' efforts at change will become more similar to self-change processes that are used by people in their natural environment. The impermanent nature of psychotherapy and the deleterious consequences of this impermanent condition are discussed. (23 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Review of Boundaries in psychotherapy: Ethical and clinical explorations.

Reviews the book, Boundaries in psychotherapy: Ethical and clinical explorations by Ofer Zur (see record 2007-00030-000). In this book, Dr. Zur outlines a number of the salient boundary issues in psychotherapy. As such, this book provides a valuable resource for practising mental health professionals regardless of theoretical orientation. Specifically, this book aims to shed light on the definition and use of psychotherapeutic boundaries by providing a context-based and comprehensive discussion of diverse boundary issues. The book is divided into four parts, and each of the first three parts is made up of four chapters. Part 1, "Boundaries in Context," addresses an assortment of topics concerning boundaries in psychotherapy. Part 2 focuses on issues that affect the therapeutic frame. Part 3 addresses boundary issues that exist within the therapeutic encounter. In Part 4, appropriately titled "Final Thoughts," the author provides a cogent epilogue that highlights the complex and multifaceted nature of professional boundaries and stresses the importance of conducting risk- benefit analyses and other diligent risk management studies when contemplating crossing boundaries in psychotherapy. With regard to the author's stated objectives for writing this book, he accomplishes his goal of shedding light on the definition and use of psychotherapeutic boundaries. Overall, the author's simple and clear writing style makes this an extremely easy book to read. Other strengths include the succinct definition of terms and inclusion of practical tips and suggestions to help the reader navigate the complexities that entrench boundary issues in psychotherapy. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Training of residents and medical students in the diagnosis and treatment of dual diagnosis patients

Treatment of dual diagnosis patients requires simultaneous treatment of the addictive and the mental disorders. Available data suggest that this does not happen often. In a survey of several psychiatric services, the unit chiefs reported that dual diagnoses were underreported, no plans were present for combined treatment, families were infrequently involved, and few referrals were made for combined treatment. There is a need for competent, experienced clinician teachers who have had positive experience with the treatment of dual disorders. The training of addiction and mental health professionals must include cooperation, understanding, and respect for each other. Cross-training is needed in chemotherapy, psychotherapy, abstinence from alcohol and other addictive drugs, 12-Step programs, spiritual issues, and milieu therapy. Negative attitudes and ignorance must be overcome for this training to take place. Faculty Fellow training programs have provided a beginning in this direction, but have so far involved few professional schools. Some examples of training with regard to referrals, prescribing, and psychotherapy are given. The importance of supervised clinical experience in treating dual diagnosis patients is emphasized. The provision of this experience provides a challenge to specialists in addiction medicine and addiction psychiatry.     

Neither child nor adult: Applying integrative therapy to adolescents.

Psychotherapy with adolescents with emotional and behavioral disorders is complicated by the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social changes occurring during this period. Developmental shifts, including those in identity, autonomy, intimacy, and sexuality, frame adolescents’ needs and motivations. The authors propose that Assimilative Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (APP; Stricker & Gold, 1996), being a flexible multitiered approach, is well suited to adolescent psychotherapy. The authors examine the application of APP to adolescents with an increased emphasis on systems variables given their greater dependence on the world around them and the importance of “goodness of fit” with the environment. The authors review the application of APP to the needs of adolescents with particular attention to systems variables and developmental issues. In addition, the authors include case examples to illustrate how APP can be integrated into individual therapy with adolescents. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

The sticky metaphor in psychoanalytic therapy.

Explores the problem of the sticky metaphor (SM) in psychoanalysis and psychoanalytic psychotherapy. SMs are recurring themes in the therapy that seem to reappear throughout the treatment and are often associated with a repetitive screen memory. Understanding the adhesiveness of SMs may provide important data on both transference and countertransference issues in therapy. An SM may often result from a complimentary identification in the therapist, which may or may not also be related to the analyst's experiencing similar conflicts in his or her own personality. A case of SM in therapy with a 34-yr-old White man illustrates the recurrence of a metaphor based on an early traumatic experience. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Clinical dilemmas in contemporary psychotherapy: The search for clinical wisdom.

Examines the concept of the clinical dilemma in the contemporary practice of psychotherapy. The notion of "dilemma management" by the psychotherapist is viewed as a ubiquitous phenomenon in the psychotherapeutic process. Dilemmas in a range of areas of clinical practice are discussed. These include (1) differing treatment modalities, such as insight-oriented psychotherapy, behavior therapy, marital and family therapy, and group therapy; (2) systemic issues such as spousal codependency and family homeostasis; (3) transference and countertransference; (4) therapeutic neutrality and management of the therapeutic boundary; and (5) psychological assessment and psychiatric diagnosis. Finally, observations are made about the interpersonal process of dilemma management in psychotherapy that models for patients an effective way of approaching the pervasive conflicts and dilemmas in their own lives. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

The evolution of short-term dynamic psychotherapy: Treatment of the future?

Traces the evolution of short-term dynamically oriented therapy from Freud to present-day clinicians. A variety of forces have led to the current development of this form of short-term therapy, including pressure from 3rd-party payers, demands placed on an overburdened mental health system, and a greater emphasis on effective psychotherapy. The features that distinguish short-term psychotherapy from traditional psychoanalysis are explored. These include an active stance, time limitations, focality, intensification of affect, extensive use of the transference, and T-C-P (transference, current life figures, and significant past figures) interpretations. Areas for future study are explored. It is suggested that standard outcome techniques be used, so comparative studies may be designed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Foreword.

Two years ago, the editors reasoned that the diverse and fundamental character of religious experience would promote an equally varied special issue devoted to the topic of psychotherapy and religion. We have not been disappointed. The papers composing this issue vary greatly in terms of literary style, research methodology, theoretical persuasion, and religious topics. There remains a need to clarify the extent to which religious issues or material that emerge during therapy need to be dealt with via "new" techniques (involving major modifications of classical techniques and ideologies) or via the classical methodologies, informed, perhaps, by expanded insights and perspectives. This issue is meant to be both current and historically representative. These two goals have not always been in agreement. The day of monolithic theories, presumed to address all matters of religious and psychotherapeutic importance, has passed, but not without leaving trails along which the present studies follow. Contemporary religious pluralism is more closely matched with the varied beliefs and problems of those seeking psychotherapy. This change has entailed a growing refinement in the psychological study of therapy and religious practice; it also implies a more astute and psychologically informed understanding of both the healthy and pathological aspects of religious experience. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Psychotherapy by telephone: Risks and benefits for psychologists and consumers.

The telephone has long been a vehicle for delivering psychological services such as referral information and crisis intervention. Recently, the use of the telephone as the primary vehicle for delivering psychotherapeutic services has been promoted. This article considers the advantages of telephone psychotherapy, especially those claimed as positive features of pay-per-call telephone lines, and finds that they may be less helpful than claimed. Telephone therapy is claimed to offer ease of access, increased sense of safety and privacy, and lower cost relative to face-to-face treatment. On the other hand, telephone therapy increases the difficulty of providing for patient safety in crisis situations, increases risks to privacy, and may ultimately be more expensive than conventional psychotherapy. In addition, serious questions have been raised about the degree to which effective treatment can be carried out without direct experience of the other person in the encounter and without a specifically designated and designed location in which to carry out treatment and how the best interests of the client can be served. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Working with children of divorce and their families.

In this article the author details issues relevant to clinicians working with children of divorce. Applicable areas to explore in psychotherapy with these children include loss, grief, abandonment, separation, trust, anger, and betrayal. A host of emotional difficulties may emerge for the child and parents subsequent to the divorce. This article provides general guidelines for treating children who experience divorce and uses continuous case examples for demonstration. In addition, challenges intrinsic to working with children of divorce and their parents are addressed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)