Empty Nest Syndrome vs Empty Nest Trigger: Psychotherapy Formulation Based on Systemic Approach - A Descriptive Case Study

摘要

The description of process of psychotherapy in single case study is crucial to improve the art and craft of psychotherapy. However, despite widespread acceptance of its importance among academicians there is dearth of descriptive accounts of case studies. The present paper attempts to describe the process of assessment and formulation highlighting the possible traps professionals may fall prey to using case study method. The case study describes psychotherapy with a couple who came with the chief complaint of empty nest syndrome with one parent at the center of problem. The detailed evaluation led to an alternative formulation following system’s approach paving way for better management plan. The paper emphasizes the need to take a step back, especially in the cases of where “obvious” easy explanations are available. The time spent on the assessment could become a game changer, as happened in the present case. However, it has its own drawbacks as it may require significant time, energy and courage on the part of clients, therapists and systems.