SELECTIVE TREATMENT MATCHING - SYSTEMATIC ECLECTIC PSYCHOTHERAPY

A case of a woman with a complex phobia is presented to illustrate that treatment selection should always consider more than either the major symptom (diagnosis) or the theoretical preferences of the available therapists when recommending treatment. Various qualities that constitute the client's environment and coping styles determine what therapy can best be initiated. Moreover, the nature of specific treatment procedures must be considered in light of the setting in which treatment will be provided, the treatment intensity that will be most helpful, the method of delivery, the use of concomitant medical and social treatments, the nature of the relationship desired, the nature of pretreatment preparation of the client, and the demographic and personal qualities of the selected therapist.