Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP) theory describes the Spectrum of Patients with Fragile Character Structure who have limited capacity to tolerate anxiety and experience feelings. This type of personality organization is defined by patients who experience threats to the integrity of self and unstable perceptions of others. They commonly present with chronic lifetime patterns of mood, anxiety, somatic and interpersonal problems. Two distinct characteristics of this population include: (a) patients experience regular and acute spikes in intrapsychic anxiety which manifest in cognitive perceptual disruption; (b) patients exhibit primitive unconscious defences.

In this 2-day training, Dr. Town will outline the modified version of ISTDP technique for working with mild to moderate Fragile Character Structure. This involves psychic integration to develop a more coherent sense of self and others; alongside structural changes in unconscious anxiety and defences to tolerate the affects surrounding the co-existence of these parts; to allow the working through of complex attachment trauma. Detailed analysis of audio-visual case material will illustrate central principles therapists can use for tailoring the pace and content of treatment sessions to patient need.

Learning Objectives:

• Learn how to identify and assess patterns of unconscious anxiety and defence in fragile character structure

• Learn key principles for restructuring defences and anxiety in fragility

• Learn how to flexibly deliver ISTDP for patients with fragile character structure through the timing and selection of interventions

Please note the following before booking:

Attendance is restricted to:

1) Those who are in an ISTDP or EDT Core training or supervision program.

2) Those who have previously completed an ISTDP or EDT Core training program.

3) ISTDP and EDT Trainers.

4) Colleagues of ISTDP and EDT trainers by invitation only (please check with organisers by emailing info@dynamichealthservices.ca).

- All participants must be qualified and registered with a professional body in their own country.

- Participants will be asked to agree to a confidentiality statement.