WEAVE
WEAVE
Centre for Integrative Psychiatry
Weave Psychotherapy — Vol. 1
Psychotherapy Sprint
Complete High-Yield Review — Every Modality in One Document
All Modalities · Defence Mechanisms · CBT · DBT · Schema Therapy · Gottman · Yalom · Landmark Trials · Disorder Map
Dr. Wilfred D'souza
MD Psychiatry
wilfred.desouza1996@gmail.com

Contents

01Deep Study
02Clinical Quick Reference
Weave Psychotherapy · www.weave.clinic
01
Deep Study
Psychotherapy Sprint — Weave Psychotherapy Vol. 1
www.weave.clinic
WEAVE Weave Psychotherapy Vol. 1 | Psychotherapy Sprint Chapter 01 · Deep Study

D1: Psychotherapy Sprint -- Complete High-Yield Review

Key Insight

Purpose: Single-document comprehensive review of all psychotherapy for MD Psychiatry exams

Table of Contents

  1. Foundations
  2. The Psychiatric Interview
  3. Psychodynamic Therapy
  4. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
  5. Behaviour Therapy
  6. Third-Wave Therapies
  7. Humanistic-Existential Therapies
  8. Specialized Modalities
  9. Group Therapy
  10. Family Therapy
  11. Couples Therapy
  12. Special Populations
  13. Disorder-Specific Map
  14. Landmark Trials
  15. High-Yield Numbers

1. FOUNDATIONS

1.1 Common Factors

The single most important concept in psychotherapy research: specific techniques account for far less outcome variance than the therapeutic relationship and patient factors.

ModelKey FactorsCore Claim
Rosenzweig (1936)Common factors across therapies"Everybody has won, and all must have prizes" (Dodo Bird)
Frank & Frank (1991)Confiding relationship, healing setting, rationale/myth, ritual/procedureMorale restoration is the mechanism
Lambert (1992)Four outcome factorsSee pie chart below
Wampold (2001, 2015)Alliance, expectations, specific ingredientsTherapist effects (5-9%) > treatment differences

Lambert's Outcome Variance Breakdown

Factor% of OutcomeWhat It Includes
Extratherapeutic40%Patient variables, life events, social support, spontaneous remission
Therapeutic relationship30%Alliance, empathy, warmth, acceptance
Expectancy/placebo15%Hope, credibility of rationale
Model/technique15%Specific therapeutic interventions
Exam Pearl

Relationship + extratherapeutic = 70% of variance. Technique = only 15%. This is the foundation of the common factors argument. Know Lambert's 40/30/15/15 split cold.

Key Insight

MNEMONIC -- PRESS: Wolberg's nonspecific factors: Placebo, Relationship, Emotional catharsis, Suggestion, Social/group dynamics.

1.2 Therapeutic Alliance (Bordin, 1979)

The working alliance has three components:

ComponentDefinition
GoalsMutually agreed targets of therapy
TasksAgreed therapeutic activities (exposure, free association, homework)
BondQuality of personal attachment -- trust, liking, respect

Key evidence:

Exam Pearl

Safran & Muran (2000): repaired alliance ruptures predict better outcomes than no rupture at all. The rupture-repair cycle is itself therapeutic.

1.3 Rogers' Core Conditions (1957)

Six necessary and sufficient conditions for therapeutic change. The therapist-offered triad:

  1. Congruence/Genuineness -- therapist is authentic and integrated
  2. Unconditional Positive Regard -- non-judgmental acceptance
  3. Empathic Understanding -- accurately perceiving the client's internal frame of reference
Key Insight

MNEMONIC -- EUG (or CUE): Empathy, Unconditional positive regard, Genuineness.

Exam Pearl

Truax & Carkhuff (1967): patients of therapists with HIGH EUG improved. Patients of therapists with LOW EUG DETERIORATED. The therapist can be toxic.

1.4 Wolberg's Classification

LevelGoalExamples
SupportiveSymptom reliefGuidance, reassurance, medication management
ReeducativeAttitude/behaviour changeCBT, behaviour therapy, counselling
ReconstructivePersonality restructuringPsychoanalysis, psychodynamic therapy, existential analysis

1.5 Ethics Essentials


2. THE PSYCHIATRIC INTERVIEW

2.1 Shea's Validity Techniques

TechniqueWhat It DoesExample
Behavioural incidentElicits specific facts ("verbal videotape")"What happened next?"
Shame attenuationMakes positive answer ego-syntonic"Are you pretty good at holding your liquor?"
Gentle assumptionAssumes behaviour is occurring"What other ways have you thought of killing yourself?"
Symptom amplificationSets upper limit high"How many fights -- 20, 30, 40?"
Denial of the specificAsks about specific items, not categories"Coke?" "Speed?" "Marijuana?"
NormalisationReferences what others experience"Many people in your situation have thoughts of..."
ExaggerationHumorously overstatesSparingly; timing-dependent
Induction to braggingCompliment then inquire"You clearly don't take any shit -- how many fights?"
Exam Pearl

Behavioural incident is the foundation of all other techniques. It creates a "verbal videotape" of what actually happened, not the patient's interpretation. Always start here.

2.2 CASE Approach (Chronological Assessment of Suicide Events)

StageRegionKey Technique
0Set the platformEnter through depression, psychosis, or crisis gate
1Presenting eventsVerbal videotape via behavioural incidents
2Recent events (6-8 weeks)Gentle assumption + denial of the specific
3Past eventsMost serious attempt, number, recency
4Immediate events"Right now, are you having thoughts of killing yourself?"
Clinical Anchor

Safety contracting is an assessment tool, NOT a guarantee. Always watch nonverbals and document quality of the contract. Never accept first "no" without further exploration.


3. PSYCHODYNAMIC THERAPY

3.1 Core Concepts

Definition: Therapy involving attention to the therapist-patient interaction, with interpretation of transference and resistance in a two-person field.

Seven basic principles (Gabbard): Much of mental life is unconscious; childhood + genetics shape the adult; transference is primary data; countertransference reveals patient's impact; resistance is a major focus; symptoms serve multiple functions; therapy aims for authenticity.

Key Insight

MNEMONIC -- SURMCRA: Subjectivity, Unconscious, Resistance, Multiple functions, Childhood + genetics, Response of therapist (CT), Attribution to therapist (transference).

3.2 Defence Mechanisms (Vaillant Hierarchy)

Primitive (Immature) Defences

DefenceDefinitionExample
SplittingAll-good/all-bad compartmentalisation"My last doctor was amazing; you're useless"
Projective identificationProject + pressure target to enact itPatient's helplessness makes therapist overprotective
ProjectionAttribute own impulses to others"Everyone at work hates me" (disowned hostility)
DenialDisregard external realityAlcoholic: "I can stop anytime"
DissociationDisrupt identity/memory/consciousnessNo memory of abuse
Idealisation/DevaluationExaggerated positive or negative attribution"Only you understand me" / "Therapy is a waste"
Acting outImpulsive enactment to avoid affectUnprotected sex after painful session
SomatisationEmotional pain becomes physical symptomsBack pain worsens when mother visits
RegressionReturn to earlier developmental phaseAdult curls into foetal position
Key Insight

MNEMONIC -- SPA-DIRSS: Splitting, Projective identification, Acting out, Denial, Idealisation/devaluation, Regression, Somatisation, Schizoid fantasy.

Neurotic (Higher-Level) Defences

DefenceDefinitionExample
RepressionExpel unacceptable ideas from consciousnessCannot recall childhood abuse
DisplacementShift feelings to less threatening targetAngry at boss, kicks dog
Reaction formationTransform wish into its oppositeHatred becomes excessive concern
IntellectualisationAbstract ideation to avoid feelingsDiscusses parent's death via statistics
Isolation of affectSeparate idea from emotionDescribes abuse calmly, no affect
RationalisationPlausible but untrue justification"I hit him because he needs to learn"
UndoingNegate implications by opposite actionOCD handwashing after "dirty" thoughts

Mature Defences

DefenceDefinitionExample
SublimationChannel aims into valued activityAggression becomes competitive sport
HumourFind comic elements; distance without denialTerminal patient jokes about taxes
SuppressionConsciously postpone attending to feeling"I'll deal with this after the meeting"
AltruismConstructive service to othersSuicide survivor volunteers at crisis line
AnticipationRealistic planning for futureStudying months before exams
Exam Pearl

Splitting + projective identification = borderline level. Repression-based defences = neurotic level. Mature defences = healthy. The Grant Study (Vaillant, 1977) showed mature-defence users had better health, marriages, and careers over 75 years.

3.3 Transference

TypeDescriptionManagement
PositiveWarm, trustingFoster; do NOT interpret unless it becomes resistance
NegativeHostile, contemptuousInterpret when it impedes work
EroticSexual/romantic feelingsInterpret the function; maintain boundaries
ErotisedFixed, demanding, insists on gratificationLimit-set; associated with severe pathology

Triangle of Insight (Menninger/Malan): Links transference (T), current relationships (C), and past relationships (P). A complete interpretation connects all three points.

Exam Pearl

Concordant countertransference = therapist identifies with patient's self (empathy). Complementary countertransference = therapist identifies with patient's object (enacts role of abuser/parent). Complementary CT is more diagnostically informative and more dangerous if unrecognised.

3.4 Supportive vs Expressive

FeatureSupportiveExpressive
GoalStabilisation, functioningStructural personality change
DefencesReinforceInterpret
TransferenceFoster positive; don't interpretAnalyse as primary data
RegressionPreventTolerate/utilise
Frequency1x/week or less2-3x/week
PatientBorderline-level organisationNeurotic-level organisation
Exam Pearl

Wallerstein (1986) Menninger Project: supportive therapy produced as much structural change as expressive therapy over 30 years. The relationship is mutative regardless of interpretation.

3.5 Key Psychodynamic Techniques

Intervention continuum (most expressive to most supportive): Interpretation -> Observation -> Confrontation -> Clarification -> Encouragement to elaborate -> Empathic validation -> Psychoeducation -> Advice/Praise.

Mnemonic

"I Often Confront Clearly, Encouraging Empathy And Praise."

3.6 Evidence

StudyKey Finding
Shedler (2010)Effect size d = 0.97; sleeper effect -- gains INCREASE at follow-up
Leichsenring & Rabung (2008)LTPP superior for complex disorders (d = 1.8 overall effect; d = 0.96 vs controls)
Steinert et al. (2017)Psychodynamic vs CBT: g = -0.07 (no difference)
Exam Pearl

The "sleeper effect" (Shedler 2010): psychodynamic therapy effect sizes INCREASE at follow-up because patients internalise a reflective process. CBT gains are maintained but typically do not increase. This is the strongest argument for psychodynamic therapy's unique contribution.


4. COGNITIVE BEHAVIOUR THERAPY

4.1 The Cognitive Model

Founder: Aaron T. Beck (1960s), originally a psychoanalyst.

Core premise: It is not the situation itself that determines feelings and behaviour, but how the person construes that situation.

Therapeutic stance: Collaborative empiricism -- therapist and client as co-investigators.

Three Levels of Cognition

LevelCharacteristicsModifiability
Automatic thoughtsSituation-specific, brief, spontaneousEasiest
Intermediate beliefsRules, attitudes, conditional assumptionsModerate
Core beliefs (schemas)Global, absolute, rigidHardest

Three Categories of Negative Core Beliefs

CategoryThemeExample
HelplessnessI can't cope"I am incompetent, powerless, a failure"
UnlovabilityI can't be loved"I am unlikeable, unwanted, bound to be rejected"
WorthlessnessI am bad"I am worthless, dangerous, don't deserve to live"
Key Insight

MNEMONIC -- Three H's: Helplessness, Heartless world (Unlovability), Hopeless character (Worthlessness).

4.2 Cognitive Distortions (Full List)

DistortionDefinitionOne-Line Example
All-or-nothing thinkingOnly two categories"If I'm not perfect, I'm a total failure"
CatastrophizingPredicting the worst"I'll be so upset I won't function at all"
Disqualifying the positiveDismissing positives"That success was just luck"
Emotional reasoningFeelings as evidence"I feel like a failure, so I must be one"
LabelingFixed global label"I'm a loser"
Magnification/minimizationInflating negatives, shrinking positives"One bad rating proves I'm inadequate"
Mental filterAttending to one negative"One low score means I'm doing terribly"
Mind readingAssuming others' thoughts"He thinks I'm incompetent"
OvergeneralizationSweeping conclusions"I felt awkward; I'll never make friends"
PersonalizationAttributing others' behaviour to self"The repairman was rude because of me"
Should/must statementsRigid rules"I should always do my best"
Tunnel visionSeeing only negatives"My boss can't do anything right"
Key Insight

MNEMONIC -- FLAME MOST: Fortune-telling (catastrophizing), Labeling, All-or-nothing, Mind reading, Emotional reasoning -- Magnification, Overgeneralization, Should statements, Tunnel vision. (Covers 9/12; add mental filter, personalization, disqualifying the positive.)

Exam Pearl

Emotional reasoning is the distortion most commonly missed by trainees. Especially prominent in anxiety and BPD.

4.3 CBT Session Structure

PhaseSteps
InitialMood check, set agenda, update + review Action Plan, prioritise
MiddleWork on agenda items (summarise, intervene, set Action Plan)
EndSummarise session, review Action Plan, elicit feedback
Key Insight

MNEMONIC -- MADAM-SURF: Mood, Agenda, Discuss update, Agenda prioritise, Middle work -- Summarise, Update AP, Review feedback, Finish.

4.4 Key CBT Techniques

4.5 Disorder-Specific CBT Models

DisorderModel/AuthorsKey MechanismKey Intervention
DepressionBeck's cognitive triadNegative views of self, world, futureBA + cognitive restructuring
Panic disorderClark (1986)Catastrophic misinterpretation of bodily sensationsInteroceptive exposure
Social anxietyClark & Wells (1995)Self-focused attention, safety behaviours, post-event ruminationVideo feedback, attention training
OCDSalkovskis (1985)Inflated responsibility, thought-action fusionERP + cognitive restructuring
PTSDEhlers & Clark (2000)Negative appraisals + fragmented memoryReliving with cognitive restructuring
Eating disordersFairburn (2008) -- CBT-EOver-evaluation of shape/weightRegular eating, broadening self-evaluation
InsomniaMorin -- CBT-IDysfunctional sleep beliefsSleep restriction, stimulus control
PsychosisCT-R (Beck et al.)Defeatist performance beliefsAspirations-based goal setting
Exam Pearl

Clark's (1986) cognitive model of panic is the most commonly examined disorder-specific CBT model. Vicious circle: bodily sensation -> catastrophic misinterpretation -> anxiety -> more sensations. Interoceptive exposure breaks the cycle. 80-90% panic-free rates.

4.6 PD Cognitive Profiles (Beck)

PDCore BeliefCompensatory Strategy
Avoidant"I am inadequate"Avoid evaluative situations
Dependent"I need help to survive"Cultivate dependent relationships
OCPD"I must not err"Apply rules rigidly
Paranoid"People are dangerous"Vigilance, counterattack
Narcissistic"I deserve special treatment"Self-aggrandizement
Antisocial"Rules are for others"Exploit, attack
BPD"I will be abandoned / I am bad"Clinging, splitting, self-harm
Key Insight

MNEMONIC -- PD belief anchors by cluster: Cluster A = "Others are dangerous/intrusive." Cluster B = "I am special/entitled/abandoned." Cluster C = "I am inadequate/helpless/must not err."

4.7 CBT Evidence

Exam Pearl

CBT's strongest evidence (largest effect sizes) is for panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and OCD. For depression, CBT's unique advantage is relapse prevention -- Hollon et al. (2005): relapse 31% after prior CT vs 76% after medication withdrawal.


5. BEHAVIOUR THERAPY

5.1 Classical vs Operant Conditioning

FeatureClassicalOperant
PioneerPavlov (1897)Skinner (1938)
LearningStimulus-stimulus associationBehaviour-consequence association
Response typeInvoluntary (salivation, fear)Voluntary (pressing lever, avoidance)
ExtinctionCS without US -> CR weakensNo reinforcement -> behaviour weakens
Clinical usePhobias, PTSD, conditioned drug cuesAvoidance, substance use, token economy

5.2 Reinforcement Grid

Add Stimulus (+)Remove Stimulus (-)
Behaviour increasesPositive reinforcement (praise -> more homework)Negative reinforcement (anxiolytic removes anxiety -> more pill-taking)
Behaviour decreasesPositive punishment (scold -> less misbehaviour)Negative punishment (remove phone -> fewer outbursts)
Exam Pearl

Negative reinforcement is NOT punishment. It INCREASES behaviour by removing something aversive (e.g., avoidance reduces anxiety, so avoidance increases). This is the mechanism maintaining all avoidance behaviour.

5.3 Schedules of Reinforcement

ScheduleExtinction ResistanceClinical Example
Fixed RatioFast extinctionToken economy (5 tasks = 1 token)
Variable RatioSlowest (most resistant)Gambling; reassurance-seeking
Fixed IntervalModerateMedication schedules
Variable IntervalSlowRandom check-ins
Exam Pearl

VR = most resistant to extinction. This is why gambling and intermittent reinforcement create the strongest habits.

5.4 Exposure Therapy Types

TypeMethodPrimary Indication
In-vivoReal-world confrontationSpecific phobias, agoraphobia
ImaginalMental imageryPTSD (Prolonged Exposure)
InteroceptiveInduce feared body sensationsPanic disorder
Virtual realityComputer simulationFlying phobia, heights
FloodingMaximum-intensity prolongedRapid reduction; high dropout
GradedSystematic hierarchyStandard for most anxiety
ERPExposure + ritual preventionOCD (gold standard; 60-70% response)

5.5 Systematic Desensitisation (Wolpe, 1958)

Steps: (1) Relaxation training (PMR), (2) Build anxiety hierarchy (0-100 SUDs), (3) Pair relaxation + imagery from lowest, (4) Progress up hierarchy, (5) In-vivo transfer.

Mechanism: Reciprocal inhibition -- relaxation inhibits anxiety. Now largely replaced by direct exposure therapy.

5.6 Behavioural Activation

Model: Depression = low response-contingent positive reinforcement (Lewinsohn, 1974). Treatment = increase valued activities. Action BEFORE motivation.

Key technique -- TRAP to TRAC: Trigger -> Response -> Avoidance Pattern -> replace with -> Alternative Coping.

Exam Pearl

Dimidjian et al. (2006): BA = paroxetine > cognitive therapy for SEVERE depression. BA is simpler, cheaper, and can be delivered by non-specialists. MANAS trial (Patel 2010, Lancet): lay-delivered BA effective in India.

5.7 Key Behavioural Concepts

Clinical Anchor

Mary Cover Jones (1924) = "mother of behaviour therapy" -- first systematic fear elimination (Little Peter). Watson & Rayner (1920) = Little Albert (fear conditioning).


6. THIRD-WAVE THERAPIES

6.1 What Makes Third Wave Different

WaveEraCore Idea
First1950s-1970sModify observable behaviour
Second1970s-1990sChange distorted cognitions
Third1990s-presentChange relationship to thoughts; acceptance + mindfulness + values

6.2 DBT (Linehan, 1993)

Biosocial Model

Chronic emotional dysregulation = biological vulnerability (high sensitivity + high reactivity + slow return to baseline) x invalidating environment. The model is transactional and de-shaming.

Target Hierarchy (governs every session)

  1. Life-threatening behaviours (always first)
  2. Therapy-interfering behaviours
  3. Quality-of-life-interfering behaviours
  4. Increasing skills
Exam Pearl

The DBT target hierarchy is absolute. If suicidal behaviour occurred this week, it is addressed before everything else, regardless of what the patient wants to discuss. This is one of the most heavily examined DBT concepts.

Four Modes of DBT

  1. Individual therapy (applies target hierarchy)
  2. Skills group (teaches skills)
  3. Phone coaching (generalisation to daily life)
  4. Therapist consultation team (treats the therapists)

DBT Skills by Module

Core Mindfulness:

Distress Tolerance -- Crisis Survival:

SkillComponents
TIPPTemperature (dive reflex), Intense exercise, Paced breathing, Progressive relaxation
STOPStop, Take a step back, Observe, Proceed mindfully
ACCEPTSActivities, Contributing, Comparisons, Emotions, Pushing away, Thoughts, Sensations
IMPROVEImagery, Meaning, Prayer, Relaxation, One thing, Vacation, Encouragement

Distress Tolerance -- Reality Acceptance:

Emotion Regulation:

SkillDescription
ABC PLEASEAccumulate positives, Build mastery, Cope ahead + PhysicaL illness, Eating, Avoid substances, Sleep, Exercise
Check the FactsIs the emotion fitting the facts?
Opposite ActionAct opposite to urge when emotion does not fit facts
Problem SolvingWhen emotion fits facts, solve the problem

Opposite Action Quick Card:

EmotionUrgeOpposite
FearAvoidApproach
AngerAttackAvoid; empathy
SadnessWithdrawGet active
Shame (unjustified)HideGo public

Interpersonal Effectiveness:

SkillGoalComponents
DEAR MANGet what you wantDescribe, Express, Assert, Reinforce, Mindful, Appear confident, Negotiate
GIVEMaintain relationshipGentle, Interested, Validate, Easy manner
FASTMaintain self-respectFair, no Apologies, Stick to values, Truthful
THINKReduce hostility (adolescent)Think, Have empathy, Interpretations, Notice, Kindness

Six Validation Levels

LevelDescription
1Unbiased listening
2Accurate reflection
3Mind-reading (articulating unspoken experiences)
4Validation by past history
5Validation by current context (heart of DBT validation)
6Radical genuineness (treating person as capable equal)
Exam Pearl

Level 5 validation is the most important clinically -- normalising the response given current circumstances. Level 6 is the highest and most challenging.

6.3 Schema Therapy (Young, 1990/2003)

18 Early Maladaptive Schemas (EMSs)

DomainSchemas
I. Disconnection & Rejection (5)Abandonment, Mistrust/Abuse, Emotional Deprivation, Defectiveness/Shame, Social Isolation
II. Impaired Autonomy (4)Dependence/Incompetence, Vulnerability to Harm, Enmeshment, Failure
III. Impaired Limits (2)Entitlement/Grandiosity, Insufficient Self-Control
IV. Other-Directedness (3)Subjugation, Self-Sacrifice, Approval-Seeking
V. Overvigilance & Inhibition (4)Negativity/Pessimism, Emotional Inhibition, Unrelenting Standards, Punitiveness

Domain distribution: 5-4-2-3-4 (memorise this).

Five core emotional needs: Secure attachment, Autonomy/competence, Freedom to express needs, Spontaneity/play, Realistic limits.

Three coping styles: Surrender (Freeze), Avoidance (Flight), Overcompensation (Fight).

Schema Modes

CategoryModes
ChildVulnerable Child, Angry Child, Impulsive/Undisciplined Child, Happy Child
CopingCompliant Surrenderer, Detached Protector, Overcompensator
ParentPunitive Parent, Demanding Parent
HealthyHealthy Adult

BPD Mode Model (4 core modes): Abandoned/abused child, Angry/impulsive child, Punitive parent (signature BPD mode), Detached protector.

Key ST Techniques

Exam Pearl

Arntz et al. (2007): imagery rescripting was superior to imaginal exposure on guilt, shame, and anger in PTSD. IR is not exposure -- the memory is actively changed, not just habituated to.

Exam Pearl

Giesen-Bloo et al. (2006): ST recovery 45.5% vs TFP 24.4% for BPD; ST dropout 26.7% vs TFP 50.6%. The only head-to-head RCT showing clear superiority. Note: sedatives/benzodiazepines significantly reduced ST effectiveness (blocks emotional processing for IR).

6.4 ACT (Hayes, 1999)

Hexaflex -- Six Processes of Psychological Flexibility

ProcessInflexible PoleFlexible Pole
AcceptanceExperiential avoidanceWillingness to have unwanted experiences
DefusionCognitive fusionSeeing thoughts as thoughts, not facts
Present MomentPast/future dominanceHere-and-now awareness
Self-as-ContextConceptualised selfObserving self ("I am the sky, not the weather")
ValuesLack of clarityChosen life directions
Committed ActionInaction/avoidanceValues-consistent behaviour

Two clusters: Mindfulness/acceptance (processes 1-4) and Commitment/change (processes 5-6).

Core distinction from CBT: ACT does not aim to change thought content. It changes the relationship to thoughts. Symptom reduction is a byproduct, not a goal.

Key techniques: Creative hopelessness, "I'm having the thought that...", leaves on a stream, values clarification.

Exam Pearl

A-Tjak et al. (2015): ACT g = 0.57 vs controls; equivalent to CBT (g = 0.06, ns difference). ACT works, but not better than CBT.

6.5 MBCT (Segal, Williams & Teasdale, 2002)

8-session group programme for depression relapse prevention.

SessionTheme
1Automatic pilot (raisin exercise, body scan)
2Dealing with barriers
3Mindfulness of breath
4Staying present ("thoughts are not facts")
5Allowing/letting be
6Thoughts are not facts
7Self-care (nourishing vs depleting activities)
8Maintaining practice

3-Minute Breathing Space: Minute 1 = Awareness ("What is my experience right now?"), Minute 2 = Gathering (narrow to breath), Minute 3 = Expanding (whole body).

Mechanism: Doing mode (discrepancy monitoring -> rumination) becomes Being mode (present-focused acceptance).

Exam Pearl

MBCT reduces relapse ONLY for patients with 3+ episodes (Teasdale, 2000: 37% vs 66%). NO benefit for 1-2 episodes. This is because differential activation (mild sadness reactivating full depressive cognition) only develops after multiple episodes.

Exam Pearl

Kuyken et al. (2015): MBCT non-inferior to maintenance antidepressants over 24 months.


7. HUMANISTIC-EXISTENTIAL THERAPIES

7.1 Rogers' Person-Centred Therapy

7.2 Gestalt Therapy (Perls)

Contact Boundary Disturbances

DisturbanceDefinition
IntrojectionSwallowing beliefs without questioning
ProjectionAttributing disowned parts to others
RetroflectionDoing to self what one wants to do to/get from others
DeflectionAvoiding contact via humour, abstraction
ConfluenceMerging; no self-other boundary
Key Insight

MNEMONIC -- I-PRDC: Introjection, Projection, Retroflection, Deflection, Confluence.

Key Gestalt Techniques

Exam Pearl

Empty chair = unfinished business with others. Two-chair = internal conflict between self-parts. This distinction is commonly tested.

7.3 Motivational Interviewing (Miller & Rollnick)

MI Spirit -- PACE

Partnership, Acceptance, Compassion, Evocation

Core Skills -- OARS

Open questions, Affirmations, Reflections, Summaries

Change Talk -- DARN-CAT

Key concepts:

Clinical Anchor

MI is a communication style, not a full therapy. It resolves ambivalence by eliciting the patient's own arguments for change. Works across substance use and any behaviour change context.

7.4 Stages of Change (Prochaska & DiClemente, 1983)

StageTherapeutic Task
PrecontemplationRaise awareness
ContemplationExplore ambivalence
PreparationStrengthen commitment
ActionSupport self-efficacy
MaintenanceRelapse prevention
RelapseNormalise; re-engage
Exam Pearl

The Transtheoretical Model was developed INDEPENDENTLY from MI. They are separate frameworks that are often used together.

7.5 Yalom's Four Ultimate Concerns

ConcernCore ConflictDefence
DeathPermanence wish vs mortalitySpecialness, ultimate rescuer
FreedomStructure wish vs groundlessnessBlame, compulsive compliance
IsolationMerger wish vs unbridgeable gapFusion, compulsive socialising
MeaninglessnessMeaning need vs cosmic indifferenceCrusadism, compulsive activity
Key Insight

MNEMONIC -- DFIM: Death, Freedom, Isolation, Meaninglessness -- "Don't Forget, I Matter."

7.6 Logotherapy (Frankl)


8. SPECIALIZED MODALITIES

8.1 IPT (Klerman, 1984)

Four Problem Areas

Problem AreaKey Techniques
GriefFacilitate mourning; reconstruct relationship (positive + negative)
Role disputesClarify expectations; communication analysis; stages: renegotiation/impasse/dissolution
Role transitionsMourn old role; develop mastery in new role
Interpersonal deficitsUse therapeutic relationship as model; encourage social risk-taking

Three phases: Phase 1 (sessions 1-3): sick role, interpersonal inventory, identify problem area. Phase 2 (sessions 4-12): work on problem area. Phase 3 (sessions 13-16): termination as role transition.

Exam Pearl

The "sick role" (Parsons) in IPT legitimises symptoms, reduces self-blame, and obligates the patient to work toward recovery. Assigned in Phase 1.

Clinical Anchor

Elkin et al. (1989) NIMH TDCRP: IPT equivalent to imipramine for moderate-severe depression. IPT is also effective for bulimia (Fairburn 1993: equivalent to CBT at 12-month follow-up) and perinatal depression.

8.2 EMDR (Shapiro, 1989/2018)

Eight Phases

PhaseNameKey Activity
1History & planningIdentify targets
2PreparationSafe place, explain procedure
3AssessmentImage + NC + PC + VOC (1-7) + SUDS (0-10) + body location
4DesensitizationBLS until SUDS = 0
5InstallationStrengthen PC until VOC = 7
6Body scanClear somatic residue
7ClosureStabilise; safe place if incomplete
8Re-evaluationNext session check

AIP model: Trauma overwhelms innate processing -> stored in state-specific form -> triggered by current stimuli -> symptoms. EMDR resumes adaptive processing.

Exam Pearl

EMDR is equivalent to TF-CBT for PTSD (WHO, NICE, APA first-line). Mechanism of BLS debated: working memory taxation (van den Hout), orienting response, REM analogy. Key scales: SUDS (0-10, disturbance), VOC (1-7, belief validity).

8.3 MBT (Bateman & Fonagy, 1999)

Mentalization: Understanding behaviour in terms of underlying mental states -- "holding mind in mind."

Pre-mentalizing modes:

Key techniques: Not-knowing stance, stop and rewind, affect focus.

Exam Pearl

Bateman & Fonagy (2008) 8-year follow-up: only 13% still met BPD criteria vs 87% control. The longest follow-up data for any BPD treatment.

8.4 TFP (Kernberg)

Kernberg's Three Criteria for Personality Organisation:

DimensionNeuroticBorderlinePsychotic
IdentityIntegratedDiffuseFragmented
DefencesMature (repression)Primitive (splitting, PI)Psychotic
Reality testingIntactIntact but lapsesImpaired

TFP technique hierarchy: Life threats -> treatment threats -> acting out -> contract violations -> narcissistic transference -> "as if" material.

Key technique chain: Clarification -> Confrontation -> Transference interpretation (the primary mutative intervention).

Exam Pearl

Clarkin et al. (2007): TFP is the ONLY BPD treatment shown to change reflective function and attachment organisation.

8.5 EFT for Couples (Johnson, 1980s)

Three Stages, Nine Steps

StageFocusKey Moment
1. De-escalation (Steps 1-4)Identify negative cycle; access primary emotions; reframe: cycle is the enemyBoth partners see the pattern
2. Restructuring (Steps 5-7)Promote identification with needs; facilitate bonding eventsSoftening -- blaming partner expresses vulnerability
3. Consolidation (Steps 8-9)New solutions; consolidate secure cycleSecure bond replaces old cycle
Exam Pearl

The "softening" is the pivotal moment of EFT. The previously critical partner reaches from vulnerability (not anger), and the withdrawing partner responds with comfort. This is the corrective attachment experience.

Mnemonic

EFT stages = "Stop, Open, Stay" -- Stop the cycle, Open to vulnerability, Stay connected.

8.6 Transactional Analysis (Berne)

Ego states: Parent (Critical/Nurturing), Adult (reality testing), Child (Free/Adapted).

Transaction types: Complementary (communication continues), Crossed (communication breaks down), Ulterior (hidden psychological message determines behaviour).

Games: Repetitive ulterior transactions with negative payoff. Examples: "Why Don't You... Yes But" (confirms "nobody can help me"), "If It Weren't For You" (avoids testing own capabilities).

8.7 Supportive Therapy

Techniques: Ventilation, reassurance, advice/guidance, praise, anticipatory guidance, clarification, suggestion, environmental intervention.

Exam Pearl

Supportive psychotherapy is the most widely practised yet most undertaught modality. Every psychiatrist must be competent in it. De Jonghe et al. (2001): equivalent to psychodynamic therapy at 6 months.


9. GROUP THERAPY

9.1 Yalom's 11 Therapeutic Factors

#FactorCore Idea
1Instillation of hopeSeeing others recover
2Universality"I am not alone"
3Imparting informationPsychoeducation, advice
4AltruismHelping others heals the helper
5Corrective recapitulation of primary familyRework early family dynamics
6Development of socialising techniquesLearn social skills via feedback
7Imitative behaviourModel after therapist/members
8Interpersonal learningGroup as social microcosm (most distinctive)
9Group cohesivenessBelonging and acceptance (most foundational)
10CatharsisSafe emotional expression
11Existential factorsDeath, isolation, freedom, meaning
Exam Pearl

Group cohesiveness is to group therapy what the therapeutic alliance is to individual therapy -- the foundational condition without which no other factor operates.

9.2 Group Stages

Tuckman StageKey ProcessDropout Risk
FormingOrientation, dependencyLow
StormingConflict, dominance strugglesHighest
NormingCohesion, trustLow
PerformingInterpersonal learning, genuine intimacyMinimal
AdjourningMourning, consolidationN/A
Exam Pearl

Most premature dropouts occur during the storming/transition phase. Members who survive this phase show the greatest therapeutic gains.

9.3 Bion's Basic Assumptions

Three unconscious group processes that interfere with rational task:

  1. Dependency -- group looks to leader as omnipotent figure
  2. Fight-flight -- group unites against perceived enemy or avoids task
  3. Pairing -- two members form dyad while group watches with messianic hope

9.4 Key Group Therapy Facts


10. FAMILY THERAPY

10.1 Schools Comparison

SchoolFounderCore ConceptKey Technique
StructuralMinuchinBoundaries, hierarchy, subsystemsJoining, enactment, restructuring
StrategicHaley, MRIAttempted solutions maintain problemsDirectives, paradox, reframing
Systemic/MilanSelvini PalazzoliCircular causality, neutralityCircular questioning, positive connotation
BowenianBowenDifferentiation of self, trianglesGenogram, coaching, I-position
ExperientialSatir, WhitakerEmotional experience, communicationFamily sculpting, communication stances
NarrativeWhite & EpstonDominant narratives, externalisationExternalising, unique outcomes
Solution-Focusedde Shazer, BergExceptions, strengthsMiracle question, scaling

10.2 Key Family Therapy Concepts

Exam Pearl

Homeostasis explains why individual therapy gains collapse when a patient returns to their family. The system is invested in its current equilibrium -- even pathological equilibrium.

Clinical Anchor

Expressed Emotion: critical comments, hostility, emotional overinvolvement. High EE = ~50% 9-month schizophrenia relapse (vs ~20% low EE). Family intervention reduces relapse by ~50% (Leff/Pilling 2000/2002).


11. COUPLES THERAPY

11.1 Gottman's Four Horsemen + Antidotes

HorsemanAntidote
Criticism (global character attack)Gentle start-up: "I feel... about... I need..."
Contempt (sarcasm, superiority, disgust)Fondness and admiration; daily appreciation
Defensiveness (counter-blame)Accept responsibility
Stonewalling (emotional shutdown; 85% male)Self-soothing: 20+ min break when HR > 100 bpm
Exam Pearl

Contempt is the single best predictor of divorce. It differs from criticism in that it conveys superiority and moral disgust. Contempt also predicts infectious illness in the partner receiving it.

Key Gottman Numbers

11.2 Sound Relationship House

LevelComponent
7 (Top)Create Shared Meaning
6Make Life Dreams Come True
5Manage Conflict
4Positive Sentiment Override
3Turning Toward (emotional bank account)
2Fondness & Admiration
1 (Base)Love Maps
WALLSTrust & Commitment
Clinical Anchor

The first three levels (Love Maps, Fondness/Admiration, Turning Toward) build the friendship system. Without friendship, conflict management fails -- repair attempts depend on PSO, which depends on friendship.


12. SPECIAL POPULATIONS

12.1 Child and Adolescent

AgeRecommended Modalities
0-2Parent-infant psychotherapy, VIG, Circle of Security
2-7Play therapy, PCIT, CBPT
7-11CBT (Coping Cat), group CBT
12-17CBT adapted, DBT-A, IPT-A

Adolescent DBT (Rathus & Miller)

Exam Pearl

Mehlum et al. (2014): DBT-A superior to enhanced usual care for adolescent self-harm. The key RCT for adolescent DBT.

12.2 CBT for Psychosis (CBTp)

Key techniques: Normalising rationale (continuum model), shared formulation, peripheral questioning (start with less charged beliefs), beliefs about voices work (Chadwick & Birchwood), coping strategy enhancement.

Freeman's 6 maintenance factors for paranoia: Anxiety, worry, negative self-beliefs, sleep problems, reasoning biases (jumping to conclusions), safety behaviours.

Exam Pearl

CBTp effect size is modest (d = 0.33-0.44, Morrison 2014) but clinically meaningful. It is an adjunct, never standalone. Family intervention reduces schizophrenia relapse by ~50%.

12.3 Cultural Formulation Interview (CFI)

Six domains: cultural definition of problem, cultural perceptions of cause, stressors/supports, role of cultural identity, past coping/help-seeking, current help-seeking.

Kleinman's 8 questions for explanatory models. Bernal's 8 adaptation dimensions: Language, Persons, Metaphors, Content, Concepts, Goals, Methods, Context.

12.4 Phase-Based Trauma Treatment

PhaseGoalInterventions
1StabilisationGrounding, distress tolerance, alliance
2ProcessingPE, CPT, EMDR, NET
3IntegrationInterpersonal work, identity rebuilding

Contraindications for Phase 2: Active suicidality, ongoing abuse, severe dissociation (DES >30), active substance dependence, insufficient affect regulation, acute psychosis.

12.5 Older Adults

Laidlaw's CCCF model adds four cohort-specific factors to standard CBT: Cohort beliefs, Role transitions, Intergenerational linkages, Socio-cultural context.

Key Insight

MNEMONIC -- CRIS: Cohort beliefs, Role transitions, Intergenerational linkages, Socio-cultural context.


13. DISORDER-SPECIFIC MAP

13.1 Master Disorder-Therapy Table

Disorder1st Line TherapyKey Trial
MDD (mild-moderate)CBT, BA, IPTRush 1977; Elkin 1989
MDD (severe)CBT + SSRI, IPT + SSRICuijpers 2020
Persistent depressive disorderCBT, IPT, CBASPKeller 2000 (NEJM)
Treatment-resistant depressionCBT augmentationWiles 2013 (CoBalT)
GADCBT, Applied RelaxationBorkovec 1995
Social anxiety disorderCBT (Clark & Wells)Clark 2006
Specific phobiaIn-vivo graded exposureOst 1989
Panic disorderCBT (Clark model)Clark 1994, 1999
OCDERP (Salkovskis model)Foa 2005
BDDCBT (adapted) + SSRIVeale 2010
PTSDTF-CBT (PE, CPT), EMDRBisson 2007
Complex PTSDPhase-based: STAIR + PECloitre 2010
BPDDBT, MBT, TFP, Schema TherapyLinehan 2006; Giesen-Bloo 2006
NPDSchema Therapy, Psychodynamic--
AvPDCBT, Schema TherapyBamelis 2014
OCPDCBT (Beck CT-PD)--
AN (adolescent)FBT (Maudsley)Lock 2010
AN (adult)CBT-ED, MANTRA, SSCMZipfel 2014 (ANTOP)
BNCBT-E (Fairburn)Fairburn 2009
BEDCBT, guided self-helpWilfley 2002
Alcohol use disorderMI, CBT, TSFProject MATCH 1997
Stimulant use disorderCBT, Contingency management--
SchizophreniaCBTp + family interventionMorrison 2014; Pilling 2002
Bipolar disorderPsychoeducation + mood stabiliserColom 2003; Frank 2005
Adolescent depressionCBT + SSRI (combined)TADS 2004
Adolescent self-harmDBT-AMehlum 2014
Child anxietyCBT (Coping Cat)Kendall 1997
Child conduct disorderParent training; MST (adolescent)Henggeler 1998
Couples distressEFT-C, Gottman MethodJohnson 1999
InsomniaCBT-ITrauer 2015
Perinatal depressionCBT or IPTO'Hara 2000
Exam Pearl

For mild-moderate depression, no therapy is clearly superior -- the Dodo bird verdict applies. For severe depression, combination (therapy + medication) is consistently superior to either alone.

Clinical Anchor

Five things to remember: (1) Depression: CBT = IPT = BA; combo superior for severe. (2) Anxiety: each disorder has a specific CBT model -- know the model. (3) BPD: four treatments (DBT, MBT, TFP, ST). (4) Psychosis: CBTp is adjunct; family intervention halves relapse. (5) Children: FBT for AN, parent training for conduct, CBT + SSRI for depression.

13.2 BPD Treatments Head-to-Head

FeatureDBTMBTTFPSchema Therapy
TheoryBiosocialAttachmentObject relationsCognitive-developmental
Core targetEmotion dysregulationMentalizing failureSplit object relationsEMSs + modes
StanceDialecticalNot-knowing, curiousTechnically neutralLimited reparenting
Key techniqueSkills + chain analysisMentalizing the momentTransference interpretationIR + chair work
Landmark RCTLinehan 2006Bateman & Fonagy 1999Clarkin 2007Giesen-Bloo 2006
Dropout~25%~15-25%~35-50%~20-27%
NICE recommendedYesYesNoNo
Exam Pearl

DBT has most evidence and is best for actively suicidal patients. MBT has longest follow-up (8 years). TFP uniquely changes attachment organisation. ST has highest recovery rate and lowest dropout.


14. LANDMARK TRIALS

14.1 Top 20 Trials

TrialYearFinding
Rush et al.1977First RCT: CT superior to imipramine for depression
Elkin et al. (NIMH TDCRP)1989All active treatments equivalent (mild-moderate); imipramine better in severe
DeRubeis et al.2005CT = paroxetine for moderate-severe MDD (58% vs 58%) -- refuted TDCRP
Hollon et al.2005Prior CT relapse 31% vs medication withdrawal 76%
Dimidjian et al.2006BA = medication > cognitive therapy for severe depression
Teasdale et al.2000MBCT halved relapse for 3+ episodes (37% vs 66%)
Kuyken et al.2015MBCT non-inferior to maintenance antidepressants
Clark et al.2003CT > fluoxetine for social anxiety; d > 1.0
Foa et al.2005ERP = clomipramine for OCD
Bisson et al.2007TF-CBT and EMDR both first-line for PTSD
Linehan et al.1991First DBT RCT: reduced parasuicide in BPD
Linehan et al.2006DBT halved suicide attempts vs expert clinicians (23% vs 46%)
Bateman & Fonagy1999, 2008MBT for BPD; 13% met criteria at 8 years vs 87%
Giesen-Bloo et al.2006ST recovery 45.5% vs TFP 24.4% for BPD
Bamelis et al.2014ST for Cluster C PDs: recovery 81% vs TAU 52%
Project MATCH1997TSF = CBT = MET for alcohol use disorder
TADS2004Adolescent depression: CBT + fluoxetine (71%) > fluoxetine (61%) > CBT (43%)
Mehlum et al.2014DBT-A reduced adolescent self-harm
Colom et al.2003Group psychoeducation reduced bipolar relapse at 5 years
Patel et al. (MANAS)2010Lay-delivered BA effective in India (Lancet)
Exam Pearl

Minimum landmark trial set for viva: Rush (1977), Linehan (1991/2006), Bateman & Fonagy (1999), Giesen-Bloo (2006), Foa (2005), Teasdale (2000), Wampold (2001), Shedler (2010), Cuijpers (2019).

14.2 Key Meta-Analyses

AuthorsYearFocusMain Result
Wampold2001Therapy vs no treatmentd = 0.80 overall
Cuijpers et al.2008Psychotherapy for depressiond = 0.67 (0.42 corrected for pub bias)
Shedler2010Psychodynamic therapyd = 0.97; sleeper effect
Horvath et al.2011Alliance-outcomer = 0.275
A-Tjak et al.2015ACTg = 0.57 vs controls
Steinert et al.2017Psychodynamic vs CBTg = -0.07 (no difference)
Cuijpers et al.2019Depression (network MA, 331 RCTs)All 7 therapy types effective; combo > mono
Johnson et al.1999EFT-Cd = 1.30

15. HIGH-YIELD NUMBERS

15.1 Effect Sizes

NumberMeaningSource
d = 0.80Overall psychotherapy vs no treatmentWampold (2001)
d = 0.00-0.20Differences between bona fide therapiesWampold (2001)
d = 0.97Psychodynamic therapyShedler (2010)
d = 1.30EFT for couples (largest for any couples therapy)Johnson (1999)
d > 1.0Clark's CT for social anxietyClark (2003)
d = 1.27Clark's CT for PTSDEhlers & Clark (2005)
d = 0.33-0.44CBTp vs TAUMorrison (2014)
r = 0.275Alliance-outcome correlationHorvath (2011)

15.2 Key Percentages and Ratios

NumberMeaningSource
40/30/15/15Client/relationship/expectancy/technique (outcome variance)Lambert (1992)
5-9%Outcome variance explained by therapist effectsWampold (2001)
5:1Positive-to-negative ratio in stable couplesGottman (1999)
93.6%Gottman's divorce prediction accuracyGottman (1999)
31% vs 76%Relapse: prior CT vs medication withdrawalHollon (2005)
23% vs 46%Suicide attempts: DBT vs community expertsLinehan (2006)
37% vs 66%Relapse: MBCT vs TAU (3+ episodes)Teasdale (2000)
13% vs 87%BPD criteria at 8 years: MBT vs controlBateman & Fonagy (2008)
45.5% vs 24.4%Recovery: ST vs TFP for BPDGiesen-Bloo (2006)
81%ST recovery for Cluster C PDsBamelis (2014)
70-73%EFT-C couple recovery rateJohnson (1999)
50%Relapse reduction from family intervention in schizophreniaLeff/Pilling (2000/2002)
60-70%ERP response rate for OCDFoa (2005)
80-90%Panic-free rate with Clark's CBTClark (1994/1999)
69%Perpetual (unsolvable) couple problemsGottman

15.3 Effect Size Interpretation

Cohen's dNNT (approx.)Label
0.2~16Small
0.5~6Medium
0.8~4Large
1.0+~3Very large

15.4 "Who Proved What" Quick Reference


Final Integration: Key Themes Across All Modalities

1. The Relationship Is the Foundation

Every modality -- from CBT to psychoanalysis to DBT -- relies on the therapeutic relationship as a primary or necessary vehicle for change. Lambert's 30%, Bordin's alliance, Rogers' conditions, Linehan's dialectical stance, Young's limited reparenting, Fonagy's not-knowing curiosity -- all converge on the same truth.

2. All Effective Therapies Share Common Factors

Frank & Frank's four elements (relationship, setting, rationale, ritual) appear in every evidence-based therapy. The Dodo bird verdict (Luborsky 1975, Wampold 2001) holds for most conditions; exceptions exist for specific disorders (ERP for OCD, exposure for phobias).

3. Technique Matters for Specific Disorders

While common factors dominate overall, specific techniques have clear advantages: ERP for OCD, exposure for phobias, Clark's model for panic, interoceptive exposure for panic, DBT skills for BPD. Know the model, not just the brand.

4. Duration Follows Complexity

Axis I disorders: 12-20 sessions. Personality disorders: 1-3 years. Chronic/complex presentations: open-ended. The more characterological the problem, the longer the treatment.

5. Integration Is the Future

Third-wave therapies already integrate acceptance + change, mindfulness + behaviour, cognition + emotion. Schema Therapy integrates CBT + attachment + gestalt + psychodynamic. The field is moving toward unified protocols and personalised treatment selection.

Clinical Anchor

The single most useful clinical skill is not any specific technique -- it is the capacity to form a working alliance, maintain it through ruptures, and repair it when it breaks. This is what the evidence consistently shows predicts outcome.


Sprint Deep Study compiled from: Weave Psychotherapy Volumes 2-12. Synthesised for MD Psychiatry exam preparation.

Dr. Wilfred Dsouza | Weave -- Centre for Integrative Psychiatry

www.weave.clinic wilfred.desouza1996@gmail.com IG: @weave.clinic
02
Clinical Quick Reference
Psychotherapy Sprint — Weave Psychotherapy Vol. 1
www.weave.clinic
WEAVE Weave Psychotherapy Vol. 1 | Psychotherapy Sprint Chapter 02 · Clinical Quick Reference

D6: Psychotherapy Sprint -- Ultimate Quick Reference

Key Insight

Purpose: Pure tables, mnemonics, and key facts -- the final cheat sheet before the exam


1. All Modalities at a Glance

ModalityFounderYearCore MechanismBest ForDuration
PsychoanalysisFreud1895Insight via interpretation of unconsciousCharacter pathologyYears, 3-5x/week
Psychodynamic (LTPP)Gabbard, ShedlerModernInterpretation + new relational experiencePDs, chronic depression>24 sessions
Supportive therapyWolberg1954Bolster defences, restore functioningCrisis, ego weakness, psychosisVariable
CBTBeck1960sCorrect distorted cognitionsDepression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD12-20 sessions
Behaviour therapyWolpe, Skinner1950sConditioning/extinctionPhobias, OCD, depression (BA)8-20 sessions
DBTLinehan1993Skills + validation + dialecticsBPD, suicidality1 year
Schema TherapyYoung1990Schema healing via limited reparenting + IRBPD, chronic PDs1-3 years
ACTHayes1999Psychological flexibilityTransdiagnostic8-16 sessions
MBCTSegal et al.2002Doing mode -> Being modeDepression relapse (3+ episodes)8 weeks
IPTKlerman1984Resolve interpersonal problem areaDepression, BN, perinatal16 sessions
EMDRShapiro1989Adaptive information processingPTSD8-12 sessions
MBTBateman & Fonagy1999Restore mentalizationBPD18 months
TFPKernberg2006Interpret split object relationsBPD1-3 years, 2x/week
EFT-CJohnson1980sRestructure attachment bondCouples distress8-20 sessions
MIMiller & Rollnick1983Evoke patient's own change talkSubstance use, ambivalenceBrief
GestaltPerls1960sAwareness of contact + here-and-nowUnfinished business, splitsVariable
LogotherapyFrankl1946Will to meaningExistential vacuumVariable
TABerne1961Ego state analysis + game disruptionInterpersonal patternsVariable

2. Defence Mechanisms Master Table (Condensed Vaillant)

LevelDefenceOne-Line Definition
PrimitiveSplittingAll-good/all-bad
Projective identificationProject + pressure other to enact
DenialDisregard reality
DissociationDisrupted consciousness
Idealisation/DevaluationExtreme positive or negative attribution
Acting outImpulsive enactment
SomatisationEmotion -> body symptoms
RegressionReturn to earlier phase
NeuroticRepressionExpel from consciousness (internal)
DisplacementShift to less threatening target
Reaction formationWish -> opposite
IntellectualisationAbstract ideation avoids feeling
Isolation of affectSeparate idea from emotion
RationalisationPlausible untrue justification
UndoingOpposite action to negate
MatureSublimationChannel into valued activity
HumourComic distance without denial
SuppressionConsciously postpone
AltruismService to others
AnticipationRealistic future planning

Rule: Splitting-based = borderline. Repression-based = neurotic. Mature = healthy.


3. Cognitive Distortions Master Table

DistortionQuick Definition
All-or-nothingBlack/white categories
CatastrophizingPredict the worst
Disqualifying the positiveDismiss positives
Emotional reasoningFeelings = evidence
LabelingFixed global tag
Magnification/minimizationInflate bad, shrink good
Mental filterFocus on one negative
Mind readingAssume others' thoughts
OvergeneralizationOne event -> sweeping rule
PersonalizationOthers' behaviour = about me
Should statementsRigid rules
Tunnel visionSee only negatives

4. DBT Skills + Mnemonics Master Table

ModuleSkill/MnemonicComponents
MindfulnessWise MindEmotional + Reasonable = Wise
"What" skillsObserve, Describe, Participate
"How" skillsNon-judgmentally, One-mindfully, Effectively
DT - CrisisTIPPTemperature, Intense exercise, Paced breathing, Progressive relaxation
STOPStop, Take a step back, Observe, Proceed mindfully
ACCEPTSActivities, Contributing, Comparisons, Emotions, Pushing away, Thoughts, Sensations
IMPROVEImagery, Meaning, Prayer, Relaxation, One thing, Vacation, Encouragement
DT - AcceptRadical AcceptancePain + Non-acceptance = Suffering
Turning the MindOngoing choice to accept
ERABC PLEASEAccumulate positives, Build mastery, Cope ahead + PhysicaL illness, Eating, Avoid substances, Sleep, Exercise
Check the FactsIs emotion fitting the facts?
Opposite ActionAct opposite when emotion doesn't fit
IEDEAR MANDescribe, Express, Assert, Reinforce, Mindful, Appear confident, Negotiate
GIVEGentle, Interested, Validate, Easy manner
FASTFair, no Apologies, Stick to values, Truthful
THINKThink, Have empathy, Interpretations, Notice, Kindness

Validation levels: (1) Listen, (2) Reflect, (3) Mind-read, (4) Past history, (5) Current context (MOST IMPORTANT), (6) Radical genuineness (HIGHEST).


5. 18 Early Maladaptive Schemas Table

#DomainSchemaCore Belief
1I. Disconnection (5)Abandonment"People will leave"
2Mistrust/Abuse"Others will hurt me"
3Emotional Deprivation"Needs won't be met"
4Defectiveness"I am flawed"
5Social Isolation"I don't belong"
6II. Impaired Autonomy (4)Dependence"I can't handle life"
7Vulnerability to Harm"Catastrophe is coming"
8Enmeshment"No identity apart from others"
9Failure"I will always fail"
10III. Impaired Limits (2)Entitlement"Rules don't apply to me"
11Insufficient Self-Control"I can't control impulses"
12IV. Other-Directed (3)Subjugation"I must submit"
13Self-Sacrifice"Others' needs before mine"
14Approval-Seeking"I need approval to feel worthy"
15V. Overvigilance (4)Negativity/Pessimism"Things will go wrong"
16Emotional Inhibition"I must suppress emotions"
17Unrelenting Standards"I must be perfect"
18Punitiveness"Mistakes deserve punishment"

Domain distribution: 5-4-2-3-4. Coping styles: Surrender, Avoidance, Overcompensation. BPD modes: Abandoned child, Angry child, Punitive parent, Detached protector.


6. All Therapy Comparison Mega-Table

DimensionPsychodynamicCBTDBTSchema TherapyACTIPT
FocusUnconscious conflictDistorted cognitionsEmotion dysregulationEarly schemas + modesExperiential avoidanceInterpersonal problem area
Change mechanismInsight + relationshipRestructuring + experimentsSkills + validationIR + reparentingFlexibility (hexaflex)Resolve problem area
Therapist roleParticipant-observerCollaborative empiricistDialectical coachLimited reparenterModels flexibilityActive, supportive
StructureLow (patient-led)High (agenda, homework)High (manual, diary cards)Semi-structuredModerateModerate
HomeworkRarelyCentralDiary cardsSchema diariesValues exercisesCommunication analysis
Duration>6 months12-20 sessions1 year1-3 years8-16 sessions16 sessions
Best forPDs, chronic depressionAnxiety, depression, OCDBPD, suicidalityBPD, chronic PDsTransdiagnosticDepression, BN
Effect size0.97 (Shedler)0.71-1.56 (varies)Moderate-large (BPD)45.5% recovery (BPD)g = 0.570.67 (depression)

7. Disorder -> Therapy Master Table (32 Disorders)

Disorder1st LineKey Number
MDD (mild-mod)CBT, BA, IPTd = 0.71
MDD (severe)CBT + SSRICombo > mono
Recurrent MDD (relapse)MBCTNNT = 4
Treatment-resistant MDDCBT augmentationWiles 2013
GADCBT, Applied Relaxationd = 0.80
Social anxietyCBT (Clark & Wells)d = 1.20
Specific phobiaIn-vivo exposure~90% response
Panic disorderCBT (Clark)80-90% panic-free
OCDERP60-70% response
PTSDTF-CBT, EMDRd = 1.0-1.5
Complex PTSDPhase-based (STAIR + PE)Cloitre 2010
BPDDBT, MBT23% vs 46% (Linehan)
NPDSchema Therapy--
AvPDCBT, Schema Therapy81% recovery (Bamelis)
AN (adolescent)FBT (Maudsley)Lock 2010
AN (adult)CBT-ED, MANTRA, SSCMZipfel 2014
BNCBT-E~50% remission
BEDCBT, self-helpWilfley 2002
Alcohol useMI, CBT, TSFMATCH: all equivalent
Stimulant useCBT, CMd = 0.4-0.6
SchizophreniaCBTp + familyd = 0.33-0.44
BipolarPsychoeducation + stabiliserColom 2003
InsomniaCBT-Id = 0.98
Adolescent depressionCBT + SSRITADS: 71%
Adolescent self-harmDBT-AMehlum 2014
Child anxietyCBT (Coping Cat)60-80% remission
Child conductParent trainingNICE CG158
Perinatal depressionCBT or IPTO'Hara 2000
Couples distressEFT-Cd = 1.30
Chronic depressionCBASPKeller 2000
HoardingCBT + MISteketee 2007
BDDCBT + SSRIVeale 2010

8. Landmark Trials Key Numbers

TrialYearKey Number
Lambert199240/30/15/15 outcome variance
Wampold2001d = 0.80 (therapy vs none); d = 0.00-0.20 (between therapies)
Rush et al.1977First CBT RCT -- CT > imipramine
Hollon et al.2005Relapse: CT 31% vs med withdrawal 76%
DeRubeis et al.2005CT = paroxetine (58% vs 58%) for severe MDD
Dimidjian et al.2006BA = medication > CT for severe depression
Teasdale et al.2000MBCT relapse: 37% vs 66% (3+ episodes)
Kuyken et al.2015MBCT = maintenance antidepressants
Clark et al.2003CBT for social anxiety d > 1.0 vs fluoxetine
Foa et al.2005ERP = clomipramine for OCD
Linehan et al.2006DBT: 23% vs 46% suicide attempts
Bateman & Fonagy2008MBT: 13% vs 87% still meet BPD criteria at 8 years
Giesen-Bloo et al.2006ST 45.5% vs TFP 24.4% recovery
Bamelis et al.2014ST 81% recovery for Cluster C PDs
Shedler2010Psychodynamic d = 0.97; sleeper effect
Gottman19995:1 ratio; 93.6% divorce prediction
Johnson et al.1999EFT d = 1.30
TADS2004CBT+SSRI 71% > SSRI 61% > CBT 43%
Project MATCH1997TSF = CBT = MET (all equivalent)
Pilling et al.2002Family intervention halves schizophrenia relapse

9. All Mnemonics Collected

MnemonicStands ForContext
PRESSPlacebo, Relationship, Emotional catharsis, Suggestion, Social dynamicsWolberg's nonspecific factors
EUG / CUEEmpathy, UPR, GenuinenessRogers' therapist conditions
CASEPresenting, Recent, Past, ImmediateSuicide assessment (Shea)
SURMCRASubjectivity, Unconscious, Resistance, Multiple functions, Childhood, Response (CT), Attribution (T)Gabbard's 7 principles
SPA-DIRSSSplitting, PI, Acting out, Denial, Idealisation, Regression, Somatisation, Schizoid fantasyPrimitive defences
NTRNarcissistic injury, Triumph over therapist, Refusal to gratifyNegative therapeutic reaction
Three H'sHelplessness, Heartless world, Hopeless characterNegative core beliefs
FLAME MOSTFortune-telling, Labeling, All-or-nothing, Mind reading, Emotional reasoning, Magnification, Overgeneralization, Should, Tunnel visionCognitive distortions
MADAM-SURFMood, Agenda, Discuss, Agenda prioritise, Middle -- Summarise, Update, Review, FinishCBT session structure
TRAP-TRACTrigger, Response, Avoidance Pattern -> Alternative CopingBehavioural activation
TIPPTemperature, Intense exercise, Paced breathing, Progressive relaxationDBT crisis survival
STOPStop, Take a step back, Observe, Proceed mindfullyDBT impulse control
ACCEPTSActivities, Contributing, Comparisons, Emotions, Pushing away, Thoughts, SensationsDBT distraction
IMPROVEImagery, Meaning, Prayer, Relaxation, One thing, Vacation, EncouragementDBT coping
ABC PLEASEAccumulate, Build mastery, Cope ahead + Physical, Eating, Avoid, Sleep, ExerciseDBT emotion regulation
DEAR MANDescribe, Express, Assert, Reinforce, Mindful, Appear confident, NegotiateDBT getting what you want
GIVEGentle, Interested, Validate, Easy mannerDBT maintaining relationship
FASTFair, no Apologies, Stick to values, TruthfulDBT self-respect
THINKThink, Have empathy, Interpretations, Notice, KindnessAdolescent DBT
PACEPartnership, Acceptance, Compassion, EvocationMI spirit
OARSOpen questions, Affirmations, Reflections, SummariesMI core skills
DARN-CATDesire, Ability, Reasons, Need -- Commitment, Activation, Taking stepsChange talk
DFIMDeath, Freedom, Isolation, MeaninglessnessYalom's 4 concerns
I-PRDCIntrojection, Projection, Retroflection, Deflection, ConfluenceGestalt contact disturbances
FEARFeeling, Expecting bad, Actions, ResultsCoping Cat (child anxiety)
CRISCohort, Role transitions, Intergenerational, Socio-culturalLaidlaw's CCCF
CHECritical comments, Hostility, Emotional overinvolvementExpressed emotion
C-C-D-SCriticise, Condemn, Defend, Shut downGottman's Four Horsemen

10. Gottman Four Horsemen + Antidotes

HorsemanWhat It IsAntidote
CriticismGlobal character attackGentle start-up: "I feel [X] about [Y]. I need [Z]."
ContemptSuperiority + disgust (WORST predictor)Fondness & admiration: daily appreciation
DefensivenessCounter-blame, victim stanceAccept responsibility: "You have a point"
StonewallingEmotional shutdown (85% male)Self-soothing: 20+ min break when HR > 100 bpm

Key: 5:1 positive-to-negative ratio. Contempt = #1 divorce predictor. 69% of problems are perpetual.

Sound Relationship House (bottom to top)

LevelComponentOne-Line
1 (Base)Love MapsCognitive map of partner's inner world
2Fondness & AdmirationRespect; antidote to contempt
3Turning TowardRespond to bids for connection
4Positive Sentiment OverrideBenefit of the doubt (from strong friendship)
5Manage ConflictSolvable (repair) + perpetual (dialogue)
6Make Life Dreams Come TrueHonour aspirations; overcome gridlock
7 (Top)Create Shared Meaning"Culture of two"
WALLSTrust & CommitmentWeight-bearing walls

11. Yalom's 11 Therapeutic Factors

#FactorOne-Line
1Instillation of hopeSeeing others recover
2Universality"I am not alone"
3Imparting informationPsychoeducation
4AltruismHelping others heals
5Corrective recapitulationRework family dynamics
6Socialising techniquesLearn skills via feedback
7Imitative behaviourModel after others
8Interpersonal learningGroup as social microcosm (most distinctive)
9Group cohesivenessBelonging (most foundational = alliance equivalent)
10CatharsisSafe emotional release
11Existential factorsDeath, meaning, isolation

12. Top 30 Viva Questions with One-Line Answers

#QuestionOne-Line Answer
1What are the common factors in psychotherapy?Lambert 40/30/15/15: client, relationship, expectancy, technique. Relationship > technique.
2What is Bordin's working alliance?Three components: goals, tasks, bond. r = 0.275 with outcome.
3Name Rogers' core conditions.EUG: Empathy, UPR, Genuineness. Low EUG = patient deterioration (Truax).
4What is the Dodo bird verdict?Luborsky 1975: bona fide therapies produce roughly equivalent outcomes.
5Describe Lambert's outcome factors.40% client, 30% relationship, 15% expectancy, 15% technique.
6What is the CASE approach?Shea: Chronological suicide assessment -- presenting, recent, past, immediate events.
7Compare supportive vs expressive therapy.Supportive: bolster defences, foster + transference. Expressive: interpret defences, analyse transference.
8What is the sleeper effect?Shedler 2010: psychodynamic therapy effect sizes INCREASE at follow-up.
9Explain projective identification.Project + interpersonal pressure + target enacts the projected role. Three steps.
10What is Beck's cognitive triad?Negative views of self, world, future. Maintained by schema-driven information processing bias.
11Name 5 cognitive distortions.All-or-nothing, catastrophizing, emotional reasoning, mind reading, should statements.
12What is collaborative empiricism?CBT stance: therapist + client as co-investigators testing hypotheses about cognitions.
13Compare classical and operant conditioning.Classical: stimulus pairing, involuntary. Operant: consequence-based, voluntary.
14What is the DBT biosocial model?Biology (sensitivity + reactivity + slow return) x invalidating environment = dysregulation.
15Name the DBT target hierarchy.(1) Life-threatening, (2) therapy-interfering, (3) quality-of-life, (4) skills.
16What are the six DBT validation levels?Listen, reflect, mind-read, past history, current context (MOST IMPORTANT), radical genuineness.
17List the 5 schema domains.Disconnection, Impaired Autonomy, Impaired Limits, Other-Directedness, Overvigilance. 5-4-2-3-4.
18What is imagery rescripting?Access memory via affect bridge; helping figure changes outcome. NOT exposure -- memory is rescripted.
19Describe the ACT hexaflex.6 processes: acceptance, defusion, present moment, self-as-context, values, committed action.
20When does MBCT work?Only for 3+ depressive episodes (differential activation). No benefit for 1-2 episodes.
21What are Yalom's 4 ultimate concerns?Death, freedom, isolation, meaninglessness (DFIM).
22Name the 4 IPT problem areas.Grief, role disputes, role transitions, interpersonal deficits.
23What are the 8 EMDR phases?History, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure, re-evaluation.
24Compare DBT, MBT, TFP, ST for BPD.DBT: skills. MBT: mentalization. TFP: transference interpretation. ST: IR + reparenting. All effective.
25What is Gottman's strongest divorce predictor?Contempt (superiority + disgust). Four Horsemen predict at 82-93% accuracy.
26What is group cohesiveness?Yalom: equivalent of therapeutic alliance in group therapy. Most foundational factor.
27Name 3 family therapy schools + founder.Structural (Minuchin), Strategic (Haley), Bowenian (Bowen).
28What is expressed emotion?Critical comments + hostility + EOI. High EE = ~50% schizophrenia relapse at 9 months.
29What therapy for adolescent AN?FBT (Maudsley model). Parents take control of feeding. Lock 2010.
30What is the evidence for psychodynamic therapy?Shedler 2010: d = 0.97. Steinert 2017: equivalent to CBT (g = -0.07). Sleeper effect unique.

13. Family Therapy Schools -- Quick Card

SchoolFounderOne Technique
StructuralMinuchinEnactment, restructuring
StrategicHaley/MRIDirectives, paradox
BowenianBowenGenogram, differentiation
Systemic/MilanSelvini PalazzoliCircular questioning
ExperientialSatir, WhitakerFamily sculpting
NarrativeWhite & EpstonExternalising the problem
Solution-Focusedde Shazer, BergMiracle question

Key concepts: Homeostasis (system resists change), triangulation (Bowen), enmeshment vs disengagement (Minuchin), double bind (Bateson), identified patient, circular causality.


14. BPD Treatments -- Quick Comparison

FeatureDBTMBTTFPSchema Therapy
TargetEmotion dysregulationMentalizing failureSplit object relationsEMSs + modes
StanceDialecticalNot-knowingNeutralLimited reparenting
Key techniqueChain analysis + skillsStop-and-rewindTransference interpretationIR + chair work
RCTLinehan 2006Bateman 2008Clarkin 2007Giesen-Bloo 2006
Dropout~25%~25%~50%~27%
RecoveryReduced self-harm13% meet BPD at 8yrImproved RF + attachment45.5%
NICEYesYesNoNo

15. Shea's Validity Techniques -- Quick Card

TechniqueOne-Line
Behavioural incident"Verbal videotape" of specific facts
Shame attenuationFrame positive answer as ego-syntonic
Gentle assumptionAssume the behaviour is occurring
Symptom amplificationSet the upper limit high
Denial of the specificAsk about specific substances/methods
Normalisation"Many people in your situation..."

16. Key Therapy Acronyms

AcronymFull Name
BABehavioural Activation
CBT-EEnhanced CBT (eating disorders)
CBT-ICBT for Insomnia
CBTpCBT for Psychosis
CMContingency Management
CBASPCognitive Behavioural Analysis System of Psychotherapy
CPTCognitive Processing Therapy
CT-RRecovery-Oriented Cognitive Therapy
ERPExposure and Response Prevention
FBTFamily-Based Treatment (Maudsley)
FFTFamily-Focused Therapy (bipolar)
IBCTIntegrative Behavioural Couples Therapy
IPSRTInterpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy
MANTRAMaudsley AN Treatment for Adults
MSTMultisystemic Therapy
NETNarrative Exposure Therapy
PCITParent-Child Interaction Therapy
PEProlonged Exposure
SSCMSpecialist Supportive Clinical Management
STAIRSkills Training in Affective and Interpersonal Regulation
TSFTwelve-Step Facilitation

17. Effect Size Interpretation

Cohen's dNNT (approx.)Label
0.2~16Small
0.5~6Medium
0.8~4Large
1.0+~3Very large

Rule of thumb: d = 0.80 is the overall effect of psychotherapy vs no treatment (Wampold 2001). Anything above 1.0 is exceptional.


Sprint Quick Reference compiled from Weave Psychotherapy Volumes 2-12.

Dr. Wilfred Dsouza | Weave -- Centre for Integrative Psychiatry

www.weave.clinic wilfred.desouza1996@gmail.com IG: @weave.clinic
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