These books on psychodynamic psychotherapy are clear and straightforward. Although they are written for mental health professionals, sophisticated laypeople may find them to be of interest.
Here are some textbooks on Psychodynamic Psychotherapy
Probably the foremost writer, for mental health professionals, on this topic is Nancy McWilliams, Ph.D. Dr. McWilliams is a psychologist. She has written numerous books on this topic. My favorite is Psychoanalytic Case Formulation but her books on Psychoanalytic Diagnosis and Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy: A practitioner’s guide are excellent.
Deborah L Cabaniss, MD is a psychiatrist who has written an excellent text, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. Although written for psychiatrists, it’s very helpful to all mental health professionals. Glen Gabbard, MD, has written an important textbook on this topic, Psychodynamic Psychiatry.
In addition to these helpful and lucid textbooks, here are some oldies but goodies. David Shapiro’s, Neurotic Styles, is a classic. I read this as a freshman and used it for years in teaching advanced psychology undergraduates at Carnegie Mellon. It’s truly a gem and has withstood the tincture of time. Another seminal work is Ralph Greenson’s, MD, The technique and practice of psychoanalysis. Although it is dated, I love this book for its’ clarity and because it provides a historical perspective of psychoanalytic technique.
Just want the “cliff notes” version? Here’s a brief summary on Psychodynamic Psychotherapy.
If you are seeking psychodynamic psychotherapy, psychoanalysis or clinical supervision, with me, feel free to call: 301.656.9650.
