Review of SHORT-TERM PSYCHOTHERAPY

Reviews the book, Short-Term Psychotherapy by edited Lewis R. Wolberg (1965). Wolberg begins by tracing the development and rationale of long-term therapy, using the psychoanalytic model. Then, following Alexander's thinking, Wolberg points out how it has sometimes engendered unresolved resentment, dependency, and acting-out in the patient. The high point of the book is Wolberg's chapter, 'The Technic of Short-Term Psychotherapy,' in which Wolberg presents an organized methodology that is worthwhile reading for anyone in the field of psychotherapy. Wolberg lets one know that one can use drugs, suggest follow-ups, educate within the mental hygiene framework-in other words intervene in ways other than in the psychoanalytic model without abandoning theoretical understanding. In the later chapter on 'Hypnosis in Short-Term Therapy' one sees another facet of this versatile therapist and teacher who can call on still another skill to expedite movement in brief therapy. The final chapter by Arlene Wolberg, 'The Contribution of Social Casework to Short-Term Psychotherapy' is an excellent introductory overview of the fields of social work, of the roles and skills of the social caseworker in using community resources, environmental manipulation, and adjunctive therapy. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)