An Introduction to Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy: Foundations of Clinical Practice

This book offers a comprehensive introduction to Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP), covering its theoretical foundations, core techniques, and practical applications. The author first introduces six key psychodynamic concepts essential for ISTDP in an accessible, jargon-free way, then shifts focus to building strong conscious therapeutic alliances. Finally, core ISTDP techniques are clearly explained and demonstrated. Through clinical examples and real therapy transcripts, this book illustrates how to effectively integrate ISTDP to resolve unconscious conflicts by addressing feelings, anxiety, and defenses. Whether you are a student or a beginner therapist new to ISTDP, or an experienced practitioner looking to revisit the fundamentals of this exciting method, this book serves as an accessible, relevant, and indispensable resource.

Table of Contents:
Introduction Part 1 – What is Psychodynamic Therapy? 1. The Unconscious 2. Internal Conflicts 3. Transference 4. Defense Mechanisms 5. Symptoms 6. Developmental Psychology, Genetic and Social Factors 7. The Sweet Child Part 2 – Dynamic Inquiry and Alliance 8. Case Formulation and Alliance 9. Agreement on Goals 10. Agreement on the Therapeutic Task 11. Therapeutic Bond and Trust Part 3. Alliance-Guided Short-Term Dynamic Cooperation 12. How to do Defense Work? 13. Restructuring Defenses 14. How to Do Anxiety Work? 15. How to Work with Feelings 16. Connecting the Dots Bibliography

About the Author :
Jon Anders Lied is a psychologist and psychotherapist specializing in ISTDP and psychodynamic therapy. He works at Sit Mental Health Service in Trondheim, Norway, runs a small private practice, and teaches and supervises at The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). He also has extensive experience as a therapist and supervisor in the public healthcare system.

Review :
“This book is a must-buy for anyone who wants to learn how psychodynamic therapy works and why to do it. Clinical vignettes illustrate every concept and technique. As a result, the reader learns how clinical thinking leads to effective interventions that help patients achieve the changes they seek. You will learn step-by-step how to create a conscious therapeutic alliance, develop an empathic emotional connection, and help patients let go of defenses to face the feelings they have feared to face. Further, you will learn how to create an empathic connection with patients so they can face feelings together with you that they couldn't face alone in the past. This is not an abstract theoretical text. Instead, it is designed to help you take your clinical thinking to the next level and learn a new set of practical, effective interventions you can use to help your patients. Extremely practical and clearly written, this book is a perfect introduction to psychodynamic therapy for instructors to use in their curricula. It will also help all therapists develop greater empathy for their patients' conscious and unconscious struggles to form a more healing relationship." Jon Frederickson, Faculty, New Washington School of Psychiatry “This volume presents a lively and accessible introduction to theory and practice of Intensive Short term Dynamic Psychotherapy. In plain language, Lied leads the reader through the therapeutic process, illustrating each step with verbatim transcripts of a successful therapy. The author is refreshingly candid about the challenges and rewards of learning this complex but effective method of facilitating deep and lasting change. Highly recommended!” Patricia Coughlin, Ph.D. “I highly recommend Jon Anders Lied’s new introduction to ISTDP! The book is illustrated with case material, is written in accessible and unpretentious language, and takes the time to explain basic psychodynamic ideas and phenomena without the use of psychodynamic jargon. It is also distinguished by placing great emphasis on the conscious part of the therapeutic collaboration, which is often neglected in ISTDP. This is also reflected in Lied’s therapeutic style in the book, which is patient, pleasant and welcoming—a good new role model for new ISTDP therapists.” Mikkel Reher-Langberg, Clincial Psychologist and President of the Danish Society for ISTDP. “With this book, Jon Anders Lied has accomplished something extraordinary. Every page of this book sings of an ISTDP deeply imbued with a humanism that places the real relationship at the heart of the therapeutic enterprise, while poignantly illuminating the core principles that make up the model.” Johannes Kiedling, LCSW “Approachable, readable, and precise with clear explanations, this book provides a comprehensive introduction to ISTDP. Rich with transcriptions from real therapy sessions, it walks readers through both the theoretical foundation and the core techniques of the model. It is an invaluable resource, catering to both newcomers who are just starting their journey in ISTDP and seasoned practitioners who are seeking a deeper understanding of the basics of this dynamic and flexible therapy approach. Highly recommended!” Tami Chelew, LMFT, President of the International Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy Association. “In his book, Introduction to ISTDP, Jon Anders Lied expertly illustrates through case examples how to apply integrative theory and techniques in psychotherapy. His approach to ISTDP is practical and to the point and he offers a refreshing perspective on how to empower your patients to experience the change they desire.” Kristin Osborn, LMHC, Associate, Harvard Medical School President-Elect, Society for the Exploration of Psychotherapy Integration. "Jon Anders Lied's appreciation of the power of ISTDP is balanced by his willingness to acknowledge the challenges and pitfalls of learning to practice it. That, and his emphasis on the importance of building a collaborative working relationship with each patient, make this book a valuable contribution." Nat Kuhn, MD.