Bob

Bob was referred to Michel Dandeneau by a psychologist working in his organisation. He was particularly distressed about his marital relationship and complained of feeling frustrated with his lack of promotion at work. Although he had no plans to end his life, he felt depressed with recurrent thoughts of death. When Bob started therapy, he met the criteria for Major Depressive Episode. Bob complains of a chronic pattern throughout most of his life which caused significant subjective distress. Through hermeneutic dialogue and mentalisation, he gradually became aware of an internal struggle. He was able to concentrate better on his work and received positive feedback. He was excited by his work and was offered praise and appreciation which triggered his dilemma and he defended with a negative projection of intention, that is, "they do not really mean it", deflecting the praise. Finally, he got a significant promotion.