Citation

Richman J. Psychotherapy 1995; 32(2): 317-322.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1995, American Psychological Association)

DOI

10.1037/0033-3204.32.2.317

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The biomedical advances that have extended life expectancy, the recognition by Kubler-Ross (1969) that the terminally ill deserve attention, and Erikson's (1950) extension of the psychoanalytic theory of development to cover the entire life span have encouraged the use of psychotherapy even to the very end of life. Kubler-Ross's and Erikson's approaches are compatible with the views of the early pioneers in the suicide prevention movement, who acted on the belief that every life is worth saving (Ringel, 1967). Psychotherapy with the terminally ill is based upon a similar view, that every life is worth living to the very end. This article discusses the individual, group, family, and hypnotic psychotherapies with the terminally ill. The goals are to enrich the last days of life, deal with unfinished business, increase social and family cohesion, and serve as a preparation for a truly good death. The various procedures that have been utilized are reviewed, together with the qualities required of the psychotherapist. The reasons for the avoidance of working with the terminally ill are discussed. The article confirms that such treatment is a rewarding, life affirming, and growth experience for both the patient and the therapist.

Language: en

Keywords

human; psychotherapy; death; article; terminal disease; self concept; patient attitude; life