ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a comprehensive discussion of the ego state model as developed by John and Helen Watkins, and how ego-strengthening is an essential component of the model. A history of the development of parts models of psychotherapy starts with psychoanalytic theories and delineates the nature of ego states, the formation of ego states, the ego state spectrum, the goals of ego-state therapy, and the activation of ego states in psychotherapy. Methods of ego-state activation such as “talking through,” calling out of ego states, imagery activation, and ideomotor activation are described, along with methods of communication with mysterious, resistant, and malevolent ego states. Ego-strengthening as an important part of the ego-state model is demonstrated through case material involving the activation of helpful ego states, conflict-free and conflict-laden ego states as internal resources, and integration of ego states as ego-strengthening.
