New procedures within an Adlerian psychotherapy

Abstract

This compelling contribution presents the clinical case of a 26-year-old female patient with a hystero-schizoid structure, initially considered for psychiatric hospitalization. Following an initial interview, an Adlerian psychotherapeutic approach was chosen, integrated with relaxation techniques (Schultz’s autogenic training), regressive hypnosis, and body-centered visualizations, aimed at reducing anxiety and facilitating the emergence of early childhood experiences. The patient exhibited dissociated gestures, anxious speech, and a face tense with anguish. Her diary and early memories revealed a profound distortion of body image and a severe inferiority complex rooted in a dysfunctional family constellation: a cold and threatening mother, an emotionally absent father, and an idealized younger brother. Raised by her grandparents from birth, the patient experienced exclusion, devaluation, and social isolation. Through hypnotherapy, she revisited significant childhood moments, such as acrobatic games on a bicycle, which helped reaffirm the existence and control of her body. Dynamics of “masculine protest” also emerged, directed toward her brother and mother, who had assumed a paternal role. After a crisis episode, her boyfriend left her, marking a turning point. During therapy, the patient made notable progress: she began going out alone, driving, passing university exams, and taking care of her appearance. Her initially dissociated sexuality was addressed through the construction of an erotic and emotional imaginary. The idea of potential motherhood helped her recognize her body as a source of life. In the final phase, she joined a Moreno-style sociodrama group, where she demonstrated strong relational skills. A final dream symbolized the overcoming of emotional petrification. Two years after completing therapy, she leads a normal life, confirming the effectiveness of the integrated Adlerian approach