ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines the process of the trial therapy developed by Dr. Habib Davanloo. The trial therapy is a complex and systematic method for assessing the patient's symptomatic and characterological difficulties, determining the unconscious forces behind the difficulties, and evaluating the patient's ego-adaptive capacity. Each therapeutic intervention is met with a response from the patient that provides data regarding suitability. The therapist must determine patients' suitability for treatment, whereas patients must weigh their own willingness to do the work at hand. Although the therapist assumes a great deal of responsibility for the pace and direction of the initial evaluation, patients must understand from the outset that the process is a two-way street and collaboration will be required for a successful outcome. Contra-indications that are readily obtained through inquiry include evidence of psychosis, major affective disorder, severe impulse control disorder, or active alcohol or substance abuse.
