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Goal‐focused positive psychotherapy in action: A case study
Author(s) -
Hawley Kathryn J.,
Winter Plumb Evelyn I.,
Conoley Collie W.
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
journal of clinical psychology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.124
H-Index - 119
eISSN - 1097-4679
pISSN - 0021-9762
DOI - 10.1002/jclp.22928
Subject(s) - psychology , psychotherapist , context (archaeology) , psychological intervention , anxiety , positive psychology , borderline personality disorder , clinical psychology , interpersonal communication , action (physics) , interpersonal relationship , existentialism , social psychology , psychiatry , biology , paleontology , philosophy , physics , epistemology , quantum mechanics
Objective This case study describes one client's progression through goal‐focused positive psychotherapy (GFPP), a positive psychology inspired treatment. The study aims to contribute a more nuanced understanding of GFPP by illustrating the clinical use of approach goals, hope, positive emotion, and client strengths—interventions that constitute the heart of GFPP. Method The case study methodology illuminates the 33‐session treatment of a self‐identified European‐American heterosexual female in her mid‐twenties, presenting with several interpersonal concerns, and symptoms of depression and anxiety. The client met the DSM 5 criteria for generalized anxiety disorder and borderline personality disorder. Results Processes and outcomes are documented through clinician and client perceptions, and weekly assessments of symptomatology and subjective well‐being. Conclusions The case study demonstrates a successful application of positive psychology consistent with GFPP's existential and humanistic psychology roots. The study should provide clinicians and theorists a greater understanding of GFPP processes and perspectives in an applied context.