Accelerated dynamic experiential psychotherapy: what it is and how it works

There are more and more newly created models and approaches, within the psychotherapeutic clinical context. One of these models, of recent appearance, is accelerated dynamic experiential psychotherapy, created by Dr. Diana Fosha.

In this article we will explain, in summary, what this therapeutic model consists of, what its 4 great foundations are and how it can help people reduce their emotional suffering.

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Accelerated dynamic experiential psychotherapy: what is it?

Accelerated Experiential-Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) is an integrative model within psychotherapy, and is specially designed to treat psychological trauma. It is based on healing and a non-pathologizing view of symptoms, and she is oriented to the transformation of the person. This therapy, on the other hand, is psychodynamic and psychoanalytic.

Accelerated dynamic experiential psychotherapy was created by an American psychologist, Dr. Diana Fosha, Doctor of Psychology (PhD). Diana Fosha founded the AEDPT Institute in New York (USA), and is currently its director. In this center she also teaches clinical psychology classes and works as a psychotherapist.

To develop such a model, Fosha understood people's suffering as opportunities to heal and experience greater transformation., and on this idea accelerated dynamic experiential psychotherapy was based. According to its author, said transformation would not be possible without certain experiences of suffering lived.

In fact, this therapeutic model uses the term "Transformation" to refer to that force that motivates the individual to make an effort to heal, be authentic, vital and connect with himself.

Regarding its influences, accelerated dynamic experiential psychotherapy draws on different disciplines or therapeutic orientations. These are: the attachment theory, therapies focused on the body itself, affective neuroscience and different transformational studies.

Aim

The goal of accelerated dynamic experiential psychotherapy is to help the patient become stronger in the face of adverse life circumstances, and especially after having experienced a traumatic situation.

To achieve this objective, the therapeutic relationship established between patient and psychologist is essential; Said relationship must suppose a secure base for the patient, where he can express his emotions and his most intimate fears, as we will see later.

Through this model of therapy work is done on trauma, loss and the painful consequences of certain life experiences, as well as in other aspects or symptoms that may arise throughout the therapeutic process.

4 fundamentals

Accelerated dynamic experiential psychotherapy is based on 4 foundations or pillars, which reflect its philosophy. These points are key to developing an effective psychotherapy process within this approach, and they are the following:

1. The power to be understood

Accelerated dynamic experiential psychotherapy is based on the idea that being listened to is healthy. This is essential for many people, and is actually one of the foundations of any psychotherapeutic process.

So, within this approach, a space is promoted to explore the needs and desires of the patient, and thus promote change. The therapist will help the patient to explore all these feelings that stem from his traumatic experience.

2. healing ability

Another of the foundations of accelerated dynamic experiential psychotherapy is the faith in the healing capacity of the patient, which is found within himself.

sometimes but this ability is blocked by vital circumstances or especially painful experiences. The therapist here will have the mission of promoting said capacity, which is actually intrinsic to each one.

3. The ability to experience emotions

The following foundation of accelerated dynamic experiential Psychotherapy consists of the importance of gradually discovering the individual's ability to experience emotions. These emotions can be positive or negative, but the important thing is that they are shared and processed.

In this context, the so-called "corrective emotional experiences" appear, which are part of the psychotherapeutic process, and which help the patient challenge her ideas and select those experiences that can really help. Thus, through different techniques within therapy, a new way of experiencing emotions by the patient opens up.

4. The examination of the wounds

The last foundation or pillar of Accelerated Dynamic Experiential Psychotherapy involves exploring the patient's emotions in their maximum depth, so that he can heal. This implies exploring their "wounds", their traumas and their weak points.

Through healing, the transformation towards a healthier interpretation of reality, according to this therapeutic model. For healing to exist, the processing of emotions, both positive and negative, is essential. The therapist accompanies the patient throughout this process.

The role of the therapist

What role does the therapist play in Accelerated Dynamic Experiential Psychotherapy? It is the essential piece so that the patient has a secure base from which to explain how he feels. Thus, the therapist must show an open and close behavior towards the patient, and eliminate any hint of judgment or prejudice.

The important thing is to create a space of tranquility and understanding, so that the person can open up. For this, and as in all psychotherapy, it is also important that the therapist shows security and conveys to the patient the message that he "is not alone."

It may happen (and it should be so) that a space of tranquility and trust opens up for the patient, and it may be the first time for many that they do not feel alone. To do this, all the behaviors of expression of feelings that the patient manifests must be reinforced, since there will be moments of vulnerability and suffering that must be addressed and contained.

On the other hand, accelerated dynamic experiential psychotherapy attaches great importance to the patient's body movement, as well as his facial expression, tone of voice, eye movements, gestures in general, posture, etc. The therapist, at all times, must attend to these behaviors, in order to connect with the patient and explore with him.

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positive experiences

Accelerated dynamic experiential psychotherapy also places great importance on the positive experiences of the patient, since they are very beneficial for their healing process or transformation. These experiences allow to work with positive affects. In addition, positive emotions must also be processed and regulated, just like negative ones.

In fact, and in order to verify its usefulness, it has been observed how these positive experiences help in the recovery of the patient. Thus, we see how this model of psychotherapy starts from a non-pathologizing vision of symptoms, and how it is based above all on healing and positive emotions.

Who can use this therapy?

Logically, well-trained people in it. Luckily, it is not limited to psychologists, but accelerated dynamic experiential psychotherapy can also be practiced by psychiatrists, social workers...

However, within the healthcare context and as far as psychologists are concerned, Ideally, the person should have a Master's Degree in General Health or the PIR (Resident Internal Psychologist), in addition to having clinical training and experience.

Bibliographic references:

• AEDP: Neuroplasticity in Action | In English with Spanish Translation | Diana Fosha, PhD | Barcelona, ​​Spain. (2019). CCCB Barcelona Seminar.
• AEDP Europe. (2019). What is AEDP or Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy?
• Markin, R. D., McCarthy, K. S., Fuhrmann, A., Yeung, D., & Gleiser, K. TO. (2018). The process of change in accelerated experiential dynamic psychotherapy (AEDP): A case study analysis. Journal of Psychotherapy Integration, 28(2): 213–232.
• Vergara, C. (2017). Towards a neuroscience-based psychotherapy of emotion. Review of the book The Healing Power of Emotions: Affective Neuroscience, Development, and Clinical Practice. News in Psychology.