Insight is now toppled off its prior pedestal (Sandler and Dreher, 1996) but its status among the spectrum of interpretive and non-interpretive mechanism is unknown.
1. The opposing
axis of “insight oriented vs.
supportive approach”, or “interpretation vs
relationship” is no
longer meaningful as they might always work synergistically. As Wallerstein said,
based on the study at Menninger (Psychotherapy Research Project) that indicated
that supportive and insight oriented therapeutic elements are always mingled together
in real clinical situations.
2.
Does it
mean that any intervention among the spectrum, from interpretation-observation-
confrontation- clarification- invitation for description- show of empathic
validation- psychoeducation- advice and appreciation/praise are all possibly (and
potentially equally) therapeutic?
3.
Thus it is
getting harder and harder for us to figure out what is psychoanalytic, as even
elements that Freud obviously considered as non-analytic, such as suggestion
and advice-giving can be re-considered as potentially valuable. Where is the
role of Oedipus Complex and death instinct? However, some say that the most
valuable legacy that Freud left with us is the importance of unconscious
process.
