‘Being with complexity’; Adaptation-based Process Therapy (APT)

Abstract

This position paper explores a therapeutic approach for individuals who may be diagnosed with any type of personality disorder or who are informally referred to by mental health professionals as “complex,” “entrenched,” “stuck”, “manipulative,” “unhelpable” or “difficult.” Called Adaptation-based Process Therapy (APT), it attempts to promote self-awareness in terms of our emotional life in the here-and-now as well as an understanding of our usual ways of being with the world. A 10 session group format has been developed which is presented here, although APT can be offered individually. The intention is not to dismiss other therapies, simply to provide an alternative model that may be suitable for those psychologists/mental health professionals with an interest in non-diagnostic, processed-based approaches [Fairfax, H. (2008b). ‘CBT or not CBT’, is that really the question? Re-considering the evidence base – The contribution of process research. Counselling Psychology Review, 23, 27–37].

Keywords:

• adaptation
• personality disorder
• adaptation-based process therapy
• mindfulness
• mentalisation
• co morbidity
• integrative therapy