You do not currently have permission to view the full text for this document. Please sign in to an account with an active subscription or contact support.
Focal treatment (c. 20 sessions) seems promising only in those cases where a focus formula can be
found in the initial interview or in the first session. The elements of the formula (usually at least three) should be well documented in the life-history material and come together in a 'good gestalt'. The focus formula should not be communicated to the patient at the start of treatment, as it may easily be employed defensively. Technically, a successful strategy is to circumvent defences and deal directly with the material defended against. The focus interpretation must not be forcibly imposed upon the material; it should come life-situationally from session to session in connexion with the material offered by the patient. The special difficulties arising for the therapist in selecting material for the focus can be mitigated by a well-functioning focus conference of several therapists.