Medication consultation and split treatment during psychotherapy.
In split treatment a patient simultaneously sees both a psychotherapist and a pharmacotherapist. Research indicates that medication and psychotherapy have additive value when used together in the treatment of depression and probably in other disorders as well. However, little is known about the presumably common technique of separate therapists administering these treatments. Complex interpersonal issues arise, reflecting both ideological and transferential attitudes toward medication as well as the intricacies of triangular relationships. Establishing a three-way therapeutic alliance, awareness of competitive countertransference feelings, and recognition of covert issues other than medication in the request for consultation are examples of areas where special attention can help the treatment succeed.
Kahn
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DA
Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY.
D000328:Adult; D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D003379:Countertransference; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy*; D008875:Middle Aged; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D011616:Psychotherapy, Multiple; D014167:Transference, Psychology
D000928:Antidepressive Agents; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents