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Psychotherapy

ISTDP

Integrative Psychology

CBT and ACT

ISTDP Psychotherapy Northcote 

Intensive Short-term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP) is a scientifically validated method of psychotherapy that has grown in popularity worldwide, due to the ability to achieve deep and lasting change.

The approach aims to identify and resolve mixed feelings which have been avoided or pushed down, often because of painful life experiences.

We often cope with these complex feelings by developing ‘blocks’ (i.e. defences) against these feelings which in turn, can lead us to suffer and prevent us from having healthy and intimate relationships with ourselves and others. These blocks or defences therefore, are identified and addressed by ISTDP therapists, which can help mobilise avoided emotions to come to the surface to allow for personal growth and freedom.

This form of therapy is not for everyone; the extended initial session will determine whether this form of therapy is indicated.

What do ISTDP therapists do?

ISTDP therapists undergo extensive training, ongoing learning and supervision, to work towards the following aims in therapy:

  • Create a safe environment and sense of trust by displaying skill and competence
  • Maintain a high level of active engagement and focus
  • Attune to clients to monitor and help regulate anxiety levels in session
  • Encourage and assist clients to take responsibility and operate at their full capacity
  • Work within a clients’ willingness to explore their emotional difficulties
  • With compassion yet directness, identify and challenge the ways in which clients avoid their emotions as it happens in session to facilitate the deep experience of previously avoided emotions to allow for personal healing, growth, and freedom
  • Encourage removal of barriers to intimacy and closeness

Video Recording

Video recording is standard practice among ISTDP practitioners, to ensure the treatment is focused and effective. The video recordings may be used by ISTDP practitioners for supervision purposes. As a client of inner focus psychology you are free to decide whether you consent to the videoing of your sessions; your decision not to consent will in no way compromise your treatment and care. Nonetheless, video recording is highly recommended to ensure your psychologist is working as effectively as possible to help you. Your psychologist would be very open and happy to discuss any questions you may have about ISTDP treatment and recording either before or during your first appointment.