TECHNIQUE OF ACTIVE ANALYTIC PSYCHOTHERAPY

Although one of Stekel’s  books is entitled Technique ofAnalytical Psychotherapy he did not precisely outline his technique, and one must cull from his descriptions what one can. Many analysts have said that it was Stekel’s personality that most accounted for his approach and treatment successes. He had an enormous intuitive ability that was acknowledged and admired by his colleagues. His interpretation of dream symbolism was applauded by Freud. In fact, many aspects of

His approach has been likened to those of Sandor Ferenczi,who has received much  greater respect and recognition?

Stekel believed in focusing on the problem presented, treatingSymptoms as targets for intervention, heightening emotional

Tension through confrontation (hence, increasing insight), and the use

Of reality situations involving graduated exposure until cure.

(These techniques are similar to such contemporary approaches as

Sensate focus, systematic desensitization,Progressive relaxation and focusing.)

In order to evaluate the patient’s ability to cooperate in achieving