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Principles of Psychotherapy The adventure of psychotherapy is a collaboration between client and caregiver. The process is directed by a professional who must establish a trusting relationship with his patient. The following is a typical psychotherapeutic progression that a patient should expect in the initial stages of treatment: 1. A thorough and complete evaluation, reflecting an understanding of the patient. 2. Identification of specific problems and mutually acceptable goals in confronting them. 3. Prioritization of issues to be examined, particularly the need to ensure safety and maintain the therapeutic alliance. 4. Development of a therapeutic plan for addressing problems. 5. Acceptance of mutual expectations and limitations, especially regarding behavioral, time, and financial commitments. 6. Confirmation of trust, confidentiality, and safety within the therapy setting. 7. Clear explanations and relevant education about the illness and its treatment. 8. Coordination and cooperation with all those involved in the treatment process, including payers.
Qualities for Treating and Relating to the Borderline The qualities that define a professional who can successfully treat individuals with borderline characteristics are the same qualities needed by people who wish to sustain a relationship with them. • Consistency in style and behavior is an important component. For many borderlines, chaos rules. Unreliability and betrayal often taint their experiences with others. Recognizing that the relationship will furnish constancy and reliability is necessary for the creation and growth of trust. • Honesty is another component necessary to maintain trust. If one colludes with the borderline to cheat others, then the borderline will expect to be cheated eventually. The therapist, particularly, must be incorruptible and