The application of Davanloo's Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy to a complex masochistic patient with panic, functional and somatization disorders: from the “frying pan” into freedom. Part I

Abstract

This article utilizes case illustration to demonstrate the scope, power and effectiveness of Davanloo's Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (IS-TDP) when applied to complex psychopathology. In Part I, the reader is first introduced to some of the fundamental principles and techniques underlying Davanloo's technique, with special reference to the types of technical modifications required for complex symptom and characterological disturbances. The paper then presents the early phases of an initial evaluation interview, conducted by Dr Davanloo with a 53-year-old masochistic patient with panic, functional and somatization disorders. With the use of vignettes of dialogue interspersed with summary passages, the case material illustrates how the IS-TDP clinician introduces his interventions and carries out his tasks in a multidimensional and fluid manner. The paper concludes with a discussion of the importance of establishing an accurate psychodiagnostic position which is based on more than symptoms alone, and the relevance of the diagnosis to the creation of treatment planning strategies. The remainder of the interview will be presented in Parts II and III of the article. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.