Psychodynamic Therapy ─ A Guide to Evidence-Based Practice

Presenting a pragmatic, evidence-based approach to conducting psychodynamic therapy, this engaging guide is firmly grounded in contemporary clinical practice and research. The book reflects an openness to new influences on dynamic technique, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and positive psychology. It offers a fresh understanding of the most common problems for which patients seek help--depression, obsessionality, low self-esteem, fear of abandonment, panic, and trauma--and shows how to organize and deliver effective psychodynamic interventions. Extensive case material illustrates each stage of therapy, from engagement to termination. Special topics include ways to integrate individual treatment with psychopharmacology and with couple or family work.

Richard F. Summers, MD, is Clinical Professor and Co-Director of Residency Training in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, and a faculty member of the Philadelphia Center for Psychoanalysis. Dr. Summers's clinical interests focus on combined psychotherapeutic and psychopharmacological treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, and adult life cycle development. His research interests include the contemporary revision of the theory and technique of psychodynamic psychotherapy, new approaches to psychotherapy training and education, comprehensive psychodynamic formulation, and positive psychology. Dr. Summers is the recipient of numerous teaching awards, including awards from the University of Pennsylvania, the Psychoanalytic Center of Philadelphia, and the Philadelphia Psychiatric Society. He has been named a "Top Doc" by Philadelphia magazine and is past president of the American Association of Directors of Psychiatric Residency Training.

Jacques P. Barber, PhD, ABPP, is Dean of the Derner Institute of Advanced Psychological Studies at Adelphi University in Long Island. He is also Professor Emeritus of Psychology in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. He conducts research on the outcome and process of dynamic and cognitive therapies for depression, panic disorder, substance dependence, and personality disorders. He has also written extensively on the impact of the therapeutic alliance and therapists' use of theoretically relevant interventions on the outcomes of various therapies. Dr. Barber is a past president of the Society for Psychotherapy Research.