Characteristics of “Good” Psychodynamic Interventions

This chapter describes eleven characteristics of “good” interventions that have been extracted from a number of psychodynamic texts and manuals. It is argued that interventions be logically-derived from a good case formulation, based upon accurate clinical data, and potentially falsifiable. Interventions should also be formulated using standard psychodynamic principles (e.g., precision, concision, parsimony) and reflect the patient’s location on the supportive-expressive continuum. Good interventions are also worded in a respectful manner and, at least in most cases, “experience-near” for the patient. Interventions can also be used to instantiate the psychodynamic therapy process for patients (i.e., learn by doing) and socialize them into therapy. Examples and practical advice are provided.