Psychosomatics

An up to date account of psychosomatic medicine and the scope for psychotherapy in the treatment of these disorders.

The mind and body are in constant interaction, and it is increasingly recognized that any true understanding of illness must take this psychosomatic dimension into account. This timely book looks at psychosomatics and psychosomatic medicine (the treatment and understanding of physical illnesses where psychological factors are significantly involved). It gives clinical descriptions of the main psychosomatic disorders and reviews psychotherapeutic approaches to treatment. Clearly set out and accessibly written, it will be essential reading for qualified and trainee counsellors, psychotherapists and doctors.

DR PETER SHOENBERG is a Consultant Psychiatrist in Psychotherapy at Camden Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Service (formerly the University College London Hospital and the Royal Free Departments of Psychotherapy). He is the author of many journals and chapters on psychosomatic disorders.

Foreword * Preface * Acknowledgements * Introduction * Historical Outline of Psychosomatic Medicine * The Scope for Psychotherapy in Psychosomatic Disorders: Psychotherapeutic Technique * The Effects of Stress * Somatization: the Somatoform Disorders * The Eating Disorders: Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa * Obesity * Gastrointestinal Disorders * Skin Disorders * Cardiovascular Disorders * Respiratory Disorders * Musculoskeletal Disorders * Headache * Psychosomatic Aspects of Gynaecology * Psychosomatic Approaches to Cancer * Developing a Psychosomatic Imagination * Conclusion * Glossary * Bibliography * Index