The intention of this dissertation was to review the existing literature on the topic of movement from deadness to aliveness in the anorexic client and the countertransferential experience of this. Psychodynamic approaches recommended for this client group are reviewed through this directional lens. A literature review was conducted from a holistic framework looking at the approaches which utilise counter transference to integrate psychoanalysis, psychodynamic and mind/body psychotherapy. Although there is a wide body of literature relating to aliveness and deadness in the therapeutic space, it seems within the literature on eating disorders, the theme of death and deadness has been largely overlooked. It was found that clients with Anorexia Nervosa have complex presentations related to the puzzling path physiology of this illness. Improved outcome for the client may be enhanced by focusing the psychotherapeutic interventions to support the client to work through deadened states and access the self towards a more enlivened state and integral self.
展开▼
