Techniques of Depth Psychology: Confrontation, Clarification, Interpretation, Working Through
TP uses a small number of interventions that build on one another.
Confrontation 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 explores this phenomenon together: What was there? What does it bring to mind?
Interpretation establishes a connection to the unconscious background. It remains a suggestion that may or may not be confirmed.
Working through is the actual therapeutic factor. Individual interpretations rarely bring about lasting change. The same pattern must be recognized time and again in different contexts until it is anchored in experience, until what that feels like becomes palpable.
Supportive work is added 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 way of working is influenced by psychodynamic psychotherapy.
