Evaluating a Psychodynamic Approach
Last week, you learned about psychodynamic theories. This week thus far, you have read about, seen, and heard clinicians use a psychodynamic theoretical orientation, or approach, with a client. In this Discussion, you are asked to consider the strengths and weaknesses of using a psychodynamic approach with a specific client.
To prepare for this Discussion:
• Review the readings, including Client Profile 1: Abby, and media segments for this week.
• Consider what kind of client might be best served by a psychodynamic approach.
• Think about how a psychodynamic approach might work with Abby from Client Profile 1.
With these thoughts in mind:
Post by Day 4 a brief summary of the strengths and weaknesses of using a psychodynamic approach in working with Abby. Be sure to provide evidence to support your decision.
Name: Abby R.Gender: FemaleAge: 57
Ethnicity: African-AmericanReligion: Baptist, not practicing
Relationship Status: Married
Description of Presenting Issue:
Abby seeks counseling after her husband has been diagnosed with lymphoma, a form of cancer. She tells you that she has never been able to cope well and is falling apart in response to her husband’s diagnosis two months ago. She spends most of her time in bed crying, has been sleeping and eating little, even though she is exhausted and losing weight rapidly, and is certain that her husband will die of the disease. She feels very guilty that she is not able to accompany her husband to medical appointments and give him support, but she says that would “send me over the edge.” She also blames herself for her husband’s illness. She thinks that if she had cooked healthier meals and been a happier person, her husband would not have developed cancer. Although Abby is currently feeling worse than she has ever felt, she tells you that she was never a happy person. Life, at least since she became an adult, has just been putting one foot after another and doing what she was supposed to do. She always had little energy, feelings of low self-esteem, and hopelessness. She cannot remember any lengthy times when she felt differently. She believes that everyone around her is having a more rewarding life than she is, and this makes her feel even worse because her life has been a comfortable one and, as Abby sees it, she has no reason to feel so blue.
Occupation History: Abby is a free-lance editor, working on technical manuals and textbooks. She works part time, taking fewer jobs since her husband’s medical diagnosis.
Education History: Abby received her bachelor’s degree in literature. She considered getting her master’s degree, but did not pursue this once she decided to get married. She has taken several continuing education courses at the local college.
Medical History: Abby suffers from migraine headaches, which started in her late twenties and have become worse in the last decade. Currently, she reports headaches 2–3 times per month. She has tried a variety of prescription and non-prescription medication, none of which is particularly effective.
Family History: Abby is the third of six children. She has three brothers and two sisters. Her father (deceased) was a contractor, and her mother was a homemaker. She reports a very close relationship with her mother, but describes her relationship with her late father as strained. She sees her siblings once in a while, none of whom live within a close distance.
Alcohol / Substance Use: Abby drinks 2–3 times per week, 1–2 drinks per occasion. She does not smoke, nor use any illegal substances.
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