Psychoanalytic Therapy versus Psychodynamic Therapy

Abstract

There is much we agree with and appreciate in Paul Wachtel’s presentation, as readers of our chapter will readily discern. In that chapter we asserted that some psychoanalytic and behavior therapists may be prepared to effect an integration of the kind Wachtel proposes because of their willingness to compromise on the perspectives, visions, and values that are inherent in their preferred approaches. Others, we said, will not be so inclined. Wachtel points the way to integration by emphasizing certain aspects of psychoanalytic (or psychodynamic) theory and practice while deemphasizing others. Although we agree with his choice of elements for inclusion in a definition of the psychodynamic approach, we feel that he has excluded elements quite as central that we cannot readily forego. By focusing on our objections, we hope to clarify what makes integration difficult for many psychoanalytic therapists.