The case of Katrina

mThe case of Katrina, a 25-Year-old, married woman with a history of multip le psychiatric hospitalizations due to recurrent, impulsive suicide attempt s, pervasive suicidal ideation, depression, and intrusive memories of sexua l abuse, was,presented to several experienced clinicians of various theoret ical backgrounds. Regardless of the diagnostic label they assigned to the c ase or their theoretical orientation, the clinicians largely agreed on two levels of intervention: (a) the rise of dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and situational analysis in combination with other cognitive behavior thera pies (CBTs) and interpersonal and behavioral interventions to address Katri na's current problems, and (b) interventions focused on Katrina's in-sessio n behaviors and the use of the therapeutic relationship to provide Katrina with an opportunity to learn new, more adaptive coping skills in a safe and accepting environment. In this case conference, we invited several experienced clinicians - Nancy Caldwell, Kenneth Chase, Gerald Davison, Robert Kohlenberg, James McCulloug h, Shelley McMain, John Norcross, and Mavis Tsai - to share their wisdom an d skill in applying their therapeutic approaches to the case of Katrina. Th eir response papers summarized Katrina's presenting problems; explicated th eir assessment plans; outlined case conceptualization; and suggested initia l treatment plans. The information presented to the therapists was collected over 1 month, dur ing four intake sessions at an outpatient clinic. Sources of information in clude intake interviews, her hospital records, testing report, and reports obtained from her couples therapist. The patient's name and identifying inf ormation have been changed to protect confidentiality.