ABSTRACT
This chapter examines both assessment and formulation: these are intricately linked and form the starting point of any course of psychodynamic psychotherapy. Assessment and formulation are key competences across all therapeutic modalities. For a psychodynamic approach, the required competence entails being able to assess whether a psychodynamic approach would be suitable for the patient. The assessment process should allow for unconscious and transference material to emerge without too much hindrance. Excessive structuring and reassurance will interfere with the emergent quality of an initial consultation. At the same time, some structuring of the first encounter can be useful in orienting the patient. An initial meeting serves the purpose of assessing not only the patient’s presenting difficulties and needs, but also what the therapist is able to provide. In the public health service or training institution, the assessor is usually a different person to the therapist they will go on to see for treatment.
