Psychodynamic Treatment Approaches to Psychopathology, vol 2, An Issue of Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics of North America, 1e (The Clinics: Internal Medicine)

A Comprehensive Exploration of Psychodynamic Psychotherapy in Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics

Rachel Z. Ritvo, Ph.D., Author
Schuyler W. Henderson, Ph.D., Author

Psychodynamic Psychotherapy in Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics delves into the intricacies of this specialized therapeutic approach, addressing a wide range of topics organized into three primary categories across two volumes:

1. Approaches to Specific Conditions

This volume comprehensively explores the application of psychodynamic psychotherapy to various mental health conditions common among children and adolescents.

• Anxiety Disorders: An in-depth analysis of the theoretical underpinnings and practical strategies for addressing anxiety in young populations.

• Trauma: A thorough examination of the impact of trauma on child development and the role of psychodynamic therapy in facilitating healing and recovery.

• Depression: An exploration of the unique challenges and treatment approaches for depressive disorders in children and adolescents.

• Eating Disorders: A comprehensive guide to the psychodynamic understanding and treatment of eating disorders, emphasizing the importance of interpersonal relationships and body image.

• Incipient Borderline Personality Disorders: An evidence-based approach to identifying and intervening with borderline personality pathology in its early stages, promoting positive outcomes.

• Medically Ill Youth: A specialized exploration of the unique psychological needs and therapeutic interventions for children and adolescents coping with chronic medical conditions.

2. Special Features in Working with Children

Volume II focuses on the unique aspects of psychodynamic psychotherapy with children and adolescents.

• Play Techniques: An innovative exploration of the therapeutic power of play in facilitating emotional expression, understanding, and change in young clients.

• Use of Boardgames: A practical guide to incorporating boardgames into psychodynamic therapy, utilizing them as metaphorical tools to enhance communication, explore relationships, and promote insight.

• Perspectives on Psychotropic Medications for Children: A balanced discussion on the potential benefits and drawbacks of using medications in conjunction with psychodynamic psychotherapy, providing clinicians with an informed perspective.

• Parent Work: A comprehensive overview of the essential role of parents in their children’s therapy, emphasizing the collaborative and supportive nature of the treatment process.

• Family Therapy: An exploration of the dynamics and techniques of family therapy, highlighting the importance of addressing family relationships and systemic issues in child and adolescent psychotherapy.

• Dyadic Therapies: A detailed description of the unique benefits and challenges of dyadic therapies, such as child-parent or parent-adolescent therapy, emphasizing their potential to foster healthy relationships and promote positive change.

3. Research Presented for the Clinician

This volume draws upon the latest research to inform clinical practice, bridging the gap between theory and application.

• Neuroscience: A comprehensive review of the emerging neuroscience research on child and adolescent development, providing clinicians with a deeper understanding of the neurobiological underpinnings of mental health conditions.

• Evidence Base: A critical examination of the research supporting the effectiveness of psychodynamic psychotherapy in treating various conditions in children and adolescents, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based practice.

• Developmental Perspectives: A comprehensive exploration of the developmental stages and challenges faced by children and adolescents, equipping clinicians with a contextual framework for understanding and intervening with their clients.