Envelopments: immersion in and emergence from drug misuse

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Psychiatry
• Psychotherapy

Background:

• Contemporary psychodynamic therapy is more active and interactive than earlier forms.
• It emphasizes affects, self-regulation, interpersonal relations, and the therapeutic alliance.
• Evidence supports the effectiveness of the psychodynamic paradigm.

Observation:

• Two cases illustrate psychodynamic therapy application in substance use disorders.
• One client was in active addiction; the other was in early abstinence from alcohol and cocaine.
• Case material highlights specific sensitivities and practices for addictive disorders.

Findings:

• Psychodynamic therapy effectively addresses predisposing factors and consequences of addiction.
• Therapist interventions and client vulnerabilities were examined in recovery.
• Client and therapist reflections offer insights into addictive behaviors and recovery.

Implications:

• Psychodynamic therapy offers a viable treatment for substance use disorders.
• The approach can be adapted for clients at different stages of recovery.
• Understanding client vulnerabilities is crucial for successful addiction treatment.