Manual of Panic Focused Psychodynamic Psychotherapy - eXtended Range

Book excerpt: This manual presents a carefully researched, detailed psychodynamic treatment program for the alleviation of a transdiagnostic range of primary Axis I anxiety disorders, including panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and related psychological problems. First exploring the principles of psychodynamic theory and formulation, the authors then present a three-phased process of Panic Focused Psychodynamic Psychotherapy-Extended Range (PFPP-XR): initial evaluation, interpretation of central conflicts and defense mechanisms, and termination. Each phase is discussed in depth and relies on central case illustrations to demonstrate techniques and results. A subsequent chapter explores how to address complex issues that may arise during the course of treatment. Altogether, this manual not only provides a demonstrated, adaptable approach for anxiety disorders, but also clearly embodies a spirit of research and empiricism heretofore rare in psychodynamic psychotherapies, with an eye toward future development.