Psychotherapy and the Remote Patient

Book excerpt: Learn to tackle the challenge and frustration of working with the patient who eludes the good intentions of even the most seasoned therapist--the remote patient. This book is a treasury of insights, clinical theory, and experiences of seasoned therapists who are eager to describe their journey of frustration and accomplishments with this most shadowy of patients. Experts share their wisdom about these patients who are often thought of as being unworkable because they appear uninterested and ungrateful. A bundle of paradoxes, wanting and avoiding contact, being both present and absent at the same time, the remote patient has the ability to undermine the therapist's confidence and sense of effectiveness