Common errors in conducting psychodynamic psychotherapy: Illustrative vignettes and alternative strategies

Abstract

In this paper 12 common errors that occur in the course of psychodynamic psychotherapy are reviewed. Rationales for why we consider these to be errors are described, and vignettes are used to illustrate the errors, lastly, recommendations for alternate approaches consistent with effective psychodynamic psychotherapy are presented. The errors reviewed include concerns regarding the maintenance of appropriate limits and boundaries; decisions regarding the focus and form of treatment; no-suicide contracts; fee arrangements; missed sessions; psychological testing of psychotherapy patients; selecting appropriate patients for psychotherapy; and the importance of personal psychotherapy for the therapist. The suggestions provided are consistent with what we believe are the goals of psychodynamic psychotherapy: autonomy, insight, and self-determination.