This is an interesting thread. Thanks, Skies, for the articles as well. I think we had a somewhat similar discussion once on another thread, where I also commented. My general view is that pretty much everyone is a "complex case" if we look thoroughly enough. One key factor, I think, is how well we are able to cope with our complexities and issues. If they seriously interfere with functioning in a persistent way, that's when I think one needs some kind of approach that taps into the roots deeply. My issue with the kind of depth therapy that is focused only on analyzing and understanding our patterns though is that knowledge on its own rarely resolves problems. This is one reason why I prefer an eclectic, individualized approach, which can target various clients and areas based on the nature of the issues and what is needed for the client to have a better life, both in terms of emotional challenges and practical implications.

My first therapist was like that. Actually, I just went back to see him for one single session earlier this week after a year of leaving because he kept contacting me and in the end I was curious. We did not part in good terms back but I don't feel the session this week made any difference. He said mostly the same things, most of which had no relevance to my current life and some were gross misinterpretations, I think. He also came up with two new areas where, he thinks, I have problems that I should address in therapy. All quite negative for me and defensive on his end, and patronizing. I really don't consider myself as someone who is not willing too look at myself deeply, and I love to do that... but have no tolerance for all that negativity without a reason or purpose. He made me feel pretty cr@ppy about myself that lasted for a day and then I just decided **** it, I'm done with him for good.

Anyway, I mostly just wanted to say here that I think a mixture of depth therapy and more practical approaches can work quite well for many complex cases. I kinda like the idea of seeing different therapists even in parallel, who can target different issues or different aspects in relevant ways. A complex approach that can also teach the client to not expect solutions and support for everything from one single source but use a variety of resources. Of course this is just my opinion but I would be interested in what others think.