Addiction and the Vulnerable Self: Modified Dynamic Group Therapy for Substance Abusers [Hardcover]

Edward. J Khantizan (Author), William E. McAuliffe (Author), Kurt S. halliday (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0898621720 | ISBN-13: 978-0898621723 | Publication Date: August 3, 1990 | Edition: 1

Based on an understanding of the psychological vulnerabilities of addicts, the MDGT model addresses the modifications in psychodynamic technique that are necessary for addicts' needs. It focuses on four main areas of difficulty involving self-regulation; affect, self-esteem, relationship, and self-care problems. Both supportive and expressive, the approach helps group members identify, process, and modify the characterological traits that mask addict's vulnerabilities. With this approach, a well-led group can heighten self-esteem, improve self-care, combat feelings of isolation and shame, and strengthen the individual's capacity for positive change. Concomitant involvement with an individual therapist/counselor is encouraged as a means to support and facilitate the group therapy, especially early in group treatment, and to maintain a flexible individual and group treatment context for self-exploration and understanding. Bringing the model to life are detailed vignettes and transcripts of groups in different phases of recovery. These cases demonstrate techniques, illustrate technical issues, and illuminate major themes that unfold during treatment.

Editorial Reviews

Review

'Useful information for anyone concerned with providing treatment to substance abusers....A valuable addition to this field.' - Contemporary Psychology

'At last, we have a thoughtful and scholarly text to assist us in using psychodynamic principles in helping our substance-abusing patients. This is must reading for all clinicians working with this population.' - J. Scott Rutan, PhD, retiring President, American Group Psychotherapy Assn., Assoc. Professor, (Psychology), Harvard Medical School, Department of Psychiatry

About the Author

Edward J. Khantzian, M.D., Dept. of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School at The Cambridge Hospital, Massachusetts.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 176 pages
• Publisher: Guilford Press; 1 edition (August 3, 1990)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0898621720
• ISBN-13: 978-0898621723
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 6.2 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 15.8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,055,315 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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