Discussion and Illustrations of the Therapeutic Processes in TIMBER

Abstract

Psychotherapeutic process at its core rests on developing a deep emotional connection or therapeutic alliance between the therapist and the client. This emotional connection helps the client to feel safe and confident to be able to work through the intrapsychic conflicts, the unresolved anxiety, and trauma in life. The current system of care for trauma is fragmented and more often than not documentation-focused which adversely impacts the formation of a solid therapeutic relationship. One of the criticisms leveled against psychotherapy today, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), is that CBT is too technical with less emphasis on the experience which in turn may reduce the patient engagement into the therapeutic process, more so in trauma therapy or mindfulness therapy. This chapter will provide case-based illustration of TIMBER therapy with emphasis on the fact that therapy should be primarily experiential in nature and the theoretical and didactic information should be used only to supplement or boost this experience rather than overwhelm the client. Through the clinical examples, this chapter will focus on how a therapist helps the clients focus on their psychological data in a more experiential manner and how to deliver therapeutic interventions in more individualized manner based on these data. The impact of these interventions to enhance the self-efficacy of the individual and any involved family member(s) is elucidated.