ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines the key psychodynamic and other principles that form the building blocks of an integrative approach to BFRBD treatment: grounding in the therapeutic alliance, trauma-informed interventions and a narrative process that weaves together verbal communication and somatic communication, as the therapist leads the process of translating body language into words. Attention to the transference and countertransference dynamics and respect for each clients’ resistance to letting go of body-focused behaviors are key to treatment. The reader is introduced to the three phases of psychodynamic treatment, a safety phase, an exploration and skill-building phase, and an adjournment phase.
