The Science of Psychotherapy October 2020

It seems extraordinary that we are still under siege of the Covid-19 virus and the wide-ranging effects we are experiencing in world economies, political processes and mental health. There is nothing small about this microscopic enemy. Like many of you, I take pause to wonder what is really important, what really matters. At the foundation of every thought I find other people, social engagement and interpersonal relationship. We matter. I have always been an advocate of the IPNB concept from Daniel Siegel – “mwe”: the indivisible connection between my-self and your-self. And so, we continue to talk about people in The Science of Psychotherapy, our relationships and personal challenges, about our challenges and the delight of discovering what is delightful within – and without.

We continue in this issue learning about repairing and strengthening relationships with Stan Tatkin. We follow up the September article with PACT – Pychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy Part 2: Practical applications. Tatkin describes and examples a number of the processes in the PACT therapeutic approach. Our featured article is an extract from a fascinating new book by Catherine Cook-Cottone, Embodiment and the Treatment of Eating Disorders. Her chapter, Psychological Models of Embodiment, sets the framework for understanding and working with eating disorders. This is an important subject that warrants more discussion and may well be one of the mental health issues we will see more of during the covid-19 prevention measures.

I was pleased to receive another case study from Roger Keizerstein. His meticulous attention to detail of the transcript and insightful analysis is just what therapists need to assist professional reflection. A Child Who Felt Too Much: A therapeutic tale of love and healing for the new millennium is a fascinating look into the world of a hypersensitive child. The final pieces in our October issue come from co-authors of a new book, Love and Work. Jeff and Andre Shinebarger wondered how other couples were dealing with the ever-present dilemma of managing a work life and a private life. To learn more, they decided to ask. The end result is a fascinating set of results and positive solutions. We have two articles. Jeff describes the book and some of the data they discovered and Andre’s article is perfect as a Last Word, giving us insight into what it is like to be a front-line health worker today, a mother and a wife.

Everyone at The Science of Psychotherapy hopes that you are well and send our best wishes to those who are not. One thing that we can never lose is our interest in each other and in ourselves. I hope your curiosity can turn on a mindset where a good life is always possible.

RICHARD HILL | EDITOR