Individual Case Formulation

Individual Case Formulation presents formulation as a process that can be taught systematically to trainee therapists. The book begins by discussing assorted theories of case formulation, and critiques their ability to be applied in real world situations. The individual case formulation approach is then defined and discussed as a way to integrate the best of what different theoretical orientations have to offer in conjunction with the expertise and clinical judgment of the therapist. The book proposes a systemic/functional framework that focuses on difficulties as defined by the client and emphasizes constructive solutions to problems rather than symptom reduction. Moving from theory to application, the book then guides therapists in how to conduct assessment interviews, how to reach a provisional formulation, how to test that formulation for accuracy and reformulate if necessary, how a therapist can make explicit what their clinical reasoning was in making the case formulation, and provides case examples and transcripts so readers will better grasp the concepts in action. Intended both for the starting or trainee therapist and the experienced clinician, Individual Case Formulation provides a practical guide for those looking to improve their case formulation skills. Reviews, critiques and compares multiple theories on formulation Identifies benefits of utilizing the individual case approach Guides trainee therapists how to conduct assessment interviews and reach a provisional formulation Presents a conceptual framework for developing and testing a formulation Helps trainees make explicit their clinical reasoning Field-tested for several decades Provides case examples with annotated transcripts to illustrate the process of formulation

Case Formulation for Personality Disorders provides clinical guidance on how to build effective treatment plans for patients presenting with personality disorders. Anchored within a disorder-specific approach, the present volume reviews the evidence base of case formulation methodology. The book takes an integrative and differentiated approach to case formulation, with multiple methods of case formulation, all specifically adapted to the psychotherapy of personality disorders, illustrated with many case examples. Provides individualized assessment and measurement in practice Uses 18 case formulation methods for treating personality disorders Identifies evidence-based effective treatment Includes real life case examples

A major contribution for all clinicians committed to understanding and using what really works in therapy, this book belongs on the desks of practitioners, students, and residents in clinical psychology, psychiatry, counseling, and social work. It will serve as a text in graduate-level courses on cognitive-behavior therapy and in clinical practica.

Integrating recent research and developments in the field, this revised second edition introduces an easy-to-master strategy for developing and writing culturally sensitive case conceptualizations and treatment plans. Concrete guidelines and updated case material are provided for developing conceptualizations for the five most common therapy models: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic, Biopsychosocial, Adlerian, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. The chapters also include specific exercises and activities for mastering case conceptualization and related competencies and skills. Also new to this edition is a chapter on couple and family case conceptualizations, and an emphasis throughout on trauma. Practitioners, as well as graduate students in counseling and in clinical psychology, will gain the essential skills and knowledge they need to master case conceptualizations.

Case formulation is a key skill for mental health practitioners, and this book provides examples of ten case formulations representing the most common mental health problems in a variety of populations and contexts, offering commentary on contrasting formulations of the same case. Provides an overview of the general features of case formulation and how it can drive treatment Features clinical cases from a variety of populations, focusing on a range of different problems Covers all the major theoretical perspectives in clinical practice – behavioural, cognitive behavioural, psychodynamic, medical , and eclectic Offers commentary on contrasting formulations of the same case for five different clinical problems

A step-by-step model for individualized case conceptualization This innovative new guide addresses the essential question facing every therapist with a new client: How do I create a treatment plan that is the best match for my client? This unique resource provides a systematic method to integrate ideas, skills, and techniques from different theoretical approaches, empirical research, and clinical experience to create a case formulation that is tailor-made for the client. Clinical Case Formulations is divided into three parts: * Getting Started--provides an overview that sets forth a framework for case formulation and data gathering. * 28 Core Clinical Hypotheses--offers a meta-framework embracing all theories, orientations, and mental health intervention models and presents clinical hypotheses within seven categories: Biological Hypotheses; Crisis, Stressful Situations, and Transitions; Behavioral and Learning Models; Cognitive Models; Existential and Spiritual Models; Psychodynamic Models; and Social, Cultural, and Environmental Factors. These hypotheses are combined and integrated to develop a coherent conceptualization of the client's problems. * Steps to a Complete Case Formulation--provides a structured framework known as the Problem-Oriented Method (POM). Using the POM and integrating multiple hypotheses, the therapist learns how to think intelligently, critically, and creatively in order to develop a tailor-made treatment plan. A list of thirty-three standards for evaluating the application of this method is provided. With this practical guide you will learn to conceptualize your clients' needs in ways that lead to effective treatment plans while finding the tools for troubleshooting when interventions fail to produce expected benefits.

This book reasserts the importance of case formulation as the first step in implementing effective cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT), centering it as the main operative tool of CBT approaches by which the therapist handles the whole psychotherapeutic process. Chapters discuss specific CBT interventions and components of the treatment, aspecific factors including therapeutic alliance and relationship, and theoretical and historical background of CBT practices. In addition, the book assumes that in CBTs the case formulation is a procedure which is continuously shared and reevaluated between patient and therapist throughout the course of treatment. This aspect is increasingly becoming the distinguishing feature of CBT approaches as it embodies CBT's basic tenets and implies full confidence in patients’ conscious agreement, transparent cooperation and explicit commitment with CBT’s model of clinical change.

This is a thorough and well-structured piece of work, which brings in the recent work of excellent authorities such as Barbara Ingram. It is well arranged, with many examples and case vignettes, which bring the material to life in an engaging way. I enjoyed reading it, and would recommend it unreservedly.’ John Rowan, humanistic therapist, private practice ‘This is a must-read book for students on courses in counselling, psychotherapy, clinical psychology and psychiatry.’ Heather Fowlie, Head of the Transactional Analysis Department, Metanoia Institute, London Conducting a competent assessment and case formulation can be a daunting task for trainee therapists engaging in clinical assessment for the first time. This book is designed to help, by unpicking the many aspects involved in assessment and case formulation across modalities, practice settings and client groups. The book: · Explores key elements of clinical assessment including diagnosis, risk assessment, ethical considerations and accounting for difference. · Highlights the necessary skills, techniques and legal requirements at each stage of the process. · Takes into account the impact of culture, context and theoretical and practical considerations. · Uses case studies and reflective questions to illustrate difficult concepts in context. Equipping you with the knowledge and tools to make successful assessments and case formulations, this is an essential read for trainees and for qualified practitioners wishing to brush up on their understanding. Dr Biljana van Rijn, Faculty Head of Applied Research and Clinical Practice, Metanoia Institute.

Since the successful first edition of Case Formulation in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, there has been a proliferation of psychological research supporting the effectiveness of CBT for a range of disorders. Case formulation is the starting point for CBT treatment, and Case Formulation in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy is unique in both its focus upon formulation, and the scope and range of ideas and disorders it covers. With a range of expert contributions, this substantially updated second edition of the book includes chapters addressing; the evidence base and rationale for using a formulation-driven approach in CBT; disorder-specific formulation models; the formulation process amongst populations with varying needs; formulation in supervision and with staff groups. New to the book are chapters that discuss: Formulation amongst populations with physical health difficulties Formulation approaches to suicidal behaviour Formulation with staff groups Case Formulation in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy will be an indispensable guide for experienced therapists and clinical psychologists and counsellors seeking to continue their professional development and aiming to update their knowledge with the latest developments in CBT formulation.

What kinds of questions do experienced clinicians ask themselves when meeting a new client for the first time? What are the main issues that must be explored to gain a basic grasp of each individual's unique psychology? How can clinical expertise be taught? From the author of Psychoanalytic Diagnosis, the volume takes clinicians step-by-step through developing a dynamic case formulation and using this information to guide and inform treatment decisions. Synthesizing extensive clinical literature, diverse psychoanalytic viewpoints, and empirical research in psychology and psychiatry, Nancy McWilliams does more than simply bring assessment to life - she illuminates the entire psychotherapeutic process.