TFP–E is a contemporary model of psychodynamic psychotherapy based in object relations theory. Derived from TFP, TFP-E can help individuals with mild as well as more severe psychological difficulties. The goal of TFP-E is to improve self functioning (sense of self, self-esteem) and interpersonal functioning (quality of relationships, enjoyment of intimacy), which are often associated feelings of anxiety and depression. TFP–E builds on the convergence between psychodynamic models of personality functioning and empirical developments in the study of personality disorders. This convergence is reflected in the Alternative Model for Personality Disorders of the DSM-5. This model defines self and interpersonal functioning as central to personality health, and improvement in these areas of functioning emerges as a central goal of treatment. TFP-E offers a flexible approach to psychotherapy by identifying general clinical objectives and core principles that define the treatment model, and then specifying how techniques can be modified to tailor treatment to the individual patient.
TFP-E represents a modification of conventional models of analytic psychotherapy with an eye towards making use of evidence-based principles and techniques and optimizing outcome. Core elements of the TFP-E treatment model include: 1) thorough assessment and discussion of diagnostic impressions with the patient as a prelude to treatment, 2) establishing a treatment frame and treatment goals while understanding their functions in therapy process and outcome, 3) using a systematic approach to identifying a focus for each session, 4) working with the therapeutic relationship to promote positive change, 5) maintaining a dual focus on clinical process and the patient’s functioning in daily life, 6) offering an integrated model of change mechanisms in psychodynamic therapy, focusing on promoting self-awareness, self understanding, and reflective processes.
Core Text:
Caligor E, Kernberg OF, Clarkin JF, Yeomans FE: Psychodynamic Therapy for Personality Pathology: Treating Self and Interpersonal Functioning. Washington, D.C., American Psychiatric Press, 2018
