Mother–Infant Psychotherapy: Integrating Techniques of Group, Family, and Individual Therapy

Abstract

Mother-infant psychotherapy groups have become an increasingly popular modality for promoting adaptive change in the dyadic relationship before dysfunctional patterns become entrenched. One unique feature of this form of therapy is that it juxtaposes several different treatment modalities. In particular, because each mother-infant dyad functions as a self-contained unit, the techniques of family therapy--including the resolution of enmeshment and triangulation--may be applied. Similarly, because the mothers of infants often interact as peers, the techniques of group therapy--including cohesion and universality--become pertinent. The overlap of these modalities contributes to effective diagnostic and therapeutic management. This article discusses how different treatment modalities--and the shifts between these modalities--may guide the course of therapy. In addition, techniques for predicting such shifts are discussed. The therapist's skill in adjusting to shifts from modality to modality enhances the effectiveness of the therapeutic intervention.