4.2.3 Indications for Psychotherapy

Indications for Brief, Long-Term and Supportive Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is an effective treatment option for a range of psychological disorders and difficulties. The duration of psychotherapy may vary depending on the patient’s needs, the severity of the symptoms, and treatment goals. Three common types of psychotherapy are brief, long-term, and supportive psychotherapy. The indications for each type of psychotherapy are discussed below.

Brief psychotherapy:

Brief psychotherapy typically involves 10-20 sessions, with a focus on addressing a specific issue or symptom. Brief psychotherapy may be appropriate for patients who have mild to moderate symptoms, a limited time frame, and a clear treatment goal. For example, brief psychotherapy may be used to treat specific phobias, panic disorders, or adjustment disorders. Brief psychotherapy is often structured and goal-oriented, with a focus on providing practical strategies for symptom relief (Shapiro & Firth, 1987).

Long-term psychotherapy:

Long-term psychotherapy typically involves more than 20 sessions, with a focus on addressing deeper psychological issues and conflicts. Long-term psychotherapy may be appropriate for patients who have complex or chronic psychological difficulties, such as personality disorders, chronic depression, or complex trauma. Long-term psychotherapy is often less structured and more exploratory, with a focus on developing insight and addressing underlying psychological conflicts (Leichsenring & Rabung, 2008).

Supportive psychotherapy:

Supportive psychotherapy typically involves a variable number of sessions, with a focus on providing emotional support and helping the patient cope with stress and life challenges. Supportive psychotherapy may be appropriate for patients who have recently experienced a significant life event, such as a loss or illness, or who are experiencing chronic stress or difficult life circumstances. Supportive psychotherapy is often more structured and directive than long-term psychotherapy, with a focus on providing practical coping strategies and emotional support (Gaston & Marmar, 1994).

Overall, the choice of psychotherapy type and duration depends on the patient’s individual needs, symptoms, and treatment goals. The therapist should assess the patient’s psychological functioning and tailor the treatment plan accordingly.

Reference:

1. Gaston, L., & Marmar, C. R. (1994). Supportive psychotherapy. Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Press.
2. Leichsenring, F., & Rabung, S. (2008). Long-term psychodynamic psychotherapy in complex mental disorders: Update of a meta-analysis. The British Journal of Psychiatry, 192(4), 253-257.
3. Shapiro, D. A., & Firth, J. (1987). Brief psychotherapy. New York, NY: Halsted Press.