Case study: Inductive thematic analysis of negative experiences from several psychotherapies over 15 years

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to describe the many experiences of Mr. L with several psychotherapies over a 15-year period. Method: To present the experiences of Mr. L with psychotherapies, we used inductive thematic analysis. Results: We found many themes that were categorized under three major clusters as 1. negative experiences, 2. feelings of unfitness and inappropriate methods and styles of treatment, and 3. negative consequences of the therapies. We proposed an explanatory model to summarize how the experiences of Mr. L might be connected. Conclusions: The experiences of Mr. L with psychotherapies over the course of 15 years were associated with strong negative feelings, thoughts, and ongoing consequences. Some of his experiences were very unique. Practitioners of psychotherapy need to consider their work, because it sometimes can lead to feelings, thoughts, and consequences such as those Mr. L experienced. We proposed several possible methods for avoiding or addressing these phenomena.