PSYCHODYNAMIC AND INTERPERSONAL THERAPIES
Psychodynamic psychotherapies vary but generally attribute symptom formation and personality characteristics to traumas and deficits during an individual's development that result in unconscious psychological conflict, faulty learning, and distortions of intrapsychic structures as well as internal object relations and that have a profound effect on interpersonal relationships.
These developmental events and their sequelae are inextricably interconnected to the individual's underlying neurobiology (as determined by genetic and other influences), which can in turn be altered by life experience, including learning, psychological events, and psychotherapy. Systematic testing of the efficacy of psychodynamic treatments for substance use disorders has occurred only with supportive-expressive therapy, a comparatively brief psychodynamically oriented treatment based on the use of interpretation and a supportive therapeutic relationship to modify negative views of the self and others. Two trials have supported the efficacy of supportive-expressive therapy for methadone-maintained, opioid-dependent patients. However, an additional randomized trial found that combined individual and group drug counseling was superior to a combination of individual support-expressive therapy and group drug counseling in treating patients with cocaine dependence.
IPT for substance use disorders is based on the concept that dysfunctional social relationships either cause or prevent recovery from a substance use disorder. By discovering the relation between interpersonal problems and substance use, the patient can move toward making changes aimed at building a social network that is supportive of recovery. Clinical study of IPT for substance use disorders has been limited.
Psychodynamic and Interpersonal Therapy is a common form of treatment provided by Los Angeles County and Orange County mental health therapists and counselors. Stress management, insight and interpersonal behavior are critical factors contributing to adopting a clean and sober life in Los Angeles County and Orange County.
If you have questions whether you or a loved one has a problem with drug use or alcohol use or if you believe you or a loved one may be an addict please click here.
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