Clinical implications of research on brief dynamic psychotherapy I. Formulating the patient's problems and goals.

Abstract

In this two-part series of articles, a model for understanding the process of brief dynamic psychotherapy is presented. The model suggests that patients enter therapy with an unconscious plan for how to get better. The therapist's inter­ ventions must be in accord with this plan for the patient to be helped by therapy. The plan concept is described, as are issues involved in inferring a patient's plan. Finally, the ramifications of the plan concept for the conduct of brief dy­ namic psychotherapy are discussed.