Techniques of Depth Psychology: Confrontation, Clarification, Interpretation, Working Through
TP uses a small number of interventions that build on one another.
Confrontation It sounds like a criticism or like the exposure work in behavioral therapy. What is meant is something more subtle: The therapist gently draws attention to something worth exploring—a hesitation, a silence, signs of Defense.
Clarification Let's explore this phenomenon together: What was that? What does it remind you of?
Interpretation establishes a connection to the unconscious background. It remains a suggestion that may or may not be confirmed.
Work through is the actual driving force. Individual interpretations rarely bring about lasting change. The same pattern must be recognized time and again in different contexts until it becomes ingrained in one’s experience, until it becomes palpable, what that feels like.
Supportive Work This comes into play when impaired abilities are the main focus: distinguishing between emotions, controlling impulses, and regulating self-esteem. The goal then is to build these abilities.
The therapist remains active throughout the process without passing judgment. Clarification, guidance, and counseling complement the interpretation. The work is usually conducted while seated.
The foundation for all these interventions is the therapeutic relationship. I'll show you how such a pattern forms and what it protects using an example.
I personally offer psychological counseling via video; this is not psychotherapy or treatment. My How It Works is influenced by psychodynamic psychotherapy.