ABSTRACT
Integrative psychotherapy utilizes a broad range of theoretical bases. It differs from a general eclecticism (“if it works, use it!”) in that it synthesizes each idea, each technique, and each treatment plan into its own carefully developed framework. At the core of that frame of reference is the concept that interpersonal contact, as experienced in relationship, is a primary factor in psychological well-being. If there is a deficit in someone’s psychological health, integrative psychotherapy assumes that damaged relationships are a part of that deficit. Similarly, we assume that healing damaged relationships and providing stable and healthy new ones helps clients to recover their psychological well-being. To the degree that one experiences contact in relationship, psychological health will be enhanced. And this principle holds for all relationships: for therapists and their clients, for parents and children, for friends, and for couples.
