Modes of therapeutic action
Subtitle: enhancement of knowledge, provision of experience, and engagement in relationship
By: Martha Stark.
Publisher: Jason Aronson
Published: 1999
Place of publication: Northvale, N.J
Language: eng
Number of pages: 384
Subjects: Psychotherapist and patient; Psychotherapy -- methods
Description: How do we position ourselves, moment by moment, in relation to our patients and how do these positions inform both what we come to know about our patients and how we intervene? Do we participate as neutral object, as empathic self-object, or as authentic subject? Do we strive to enhance the patient's knowledge, to provide a corrective experience, or to work at the intimate edge?

As Dr. Stark repeatedly demonstrates in numerous clinical vignettes, the three modes of therapeutic action - knowledge, experience, and relationship - are not mutually exclusive but mutually enhancing. If, as therapists, we can tolerate the necessary uncertainty that comes with the recognition that there is an infinite variety of possibilities for change, then we will be able to enhance the therapeutic potential of each moment and optimize our effectiveness as clinicians.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references (p. [367]-374) and index.