Taking an existential – dialectical approach to developmental psychology, Leni Verhofstadt-DenŠve develops a personality model and shows how it can be applied in practice through psychodrama, videofeedback and creative playtherapy. In the first section of the book she defines her approach in philosophical and clinical terms: in the second, more practically oriented, section she explains how psychodramatic principles can be applied when working therapeutically with groups and individuals. She focuses particularly on the treatment of children and adolescents suffering from developmental disorders, drug addiction and self-esteem problems. Illustrated with clinical examples from the author’s experience, the book presents methods for psychiatrists and therapists to use in their practice, and challenges them to re-examine their approaches to psychotherapy.
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Reviews
Dramatherapists with a taste for philosophy, seeking a useable map of the complex territory of personal development, may also find the effort of reading well rewarded.
`At last a book combining philosophy, psychodrama and developmental psychology. Verhofstadt-DenŠve is one of our finest scholars. The book is a must read.' - Marcia Karp, Psychodramatist
This book, written by professor Verhofstadt-Deneve, who is Professor of Theoretical and Clinical Developmental psychology at the University of Ghent in Belgium and Head of the International Research and Training Institute on Developmental Psychotherapy, is based on many years of research, practice and training in the field of psychodrama. It is well-written, comprehensive and somewhat challenging for professionals who are not well-versed in psychotherapy. The book also contains an exhaustive bibliography. …I would say that for any professional who has not had the opportunity to learn directly from Professor Verhofstadt-Deneve and her team in Ghent, this book is certainly the next best thing.