The role of theory in teaching supportive psychotherapy

Because supportive therapy is not based upon a theory of mind or personality or psychopathology, it should not be thought of as a unique modality of treatment but rather as a body of techniques or tactics that function with various theoretical orientations as a "shell program" functions with a computer's operating system. The therapist's operating system is the theoretical orientation gives direction to his/her interventions. In the past, supportive therapy has generally been explained in terms of its departures from the model of expressive therapy. The techniques and rationales of supportive therapy have now been articulated so that they can be taught along with the techniques and rationales of expressive therapy. It is important that students not absorb the tenets and tactics of expressive therapy as a monolithic model for all therapy. Supervision of psychotherapy should pay ample attention to the "coaching" function aimed at mastering technique, which is as important as teaching about psychopathology or encouraging personal growth.