Toward an integrative theoretical basis for training psychotherapists

The purpose of this paper is to describe a training program for integrative psychotherapy that is based on an as-yet-nonexistent integrative theory of psychotherapy. It is therefore to be considered a "thought experiment." A partially integrative theory of psychotherapy is presented- a work in progr ess-which is used as the basis for planning a 3-year postdoctoral training program for advanced psychotherapists. The curriculum would include (1) sev eral courses on specific "pure-form therapies," (2) core courses in the int egrative theory, (3) courses on the application of the integrative theory t o a number of different classes of mental disorder, (4) a year of practicum during which the student therapists applies the integrative treatment to a substantial number of patients under supervision, and (5) a year-long inte rnship-like experience during which the treatment will be applied to much l arger base of patients. Students would also attend a therapy-like group to explore feelings regarding the contract of this therapy and a second case c onference group to discuss their cases.