Outline of the Concept of Addictive Disorders and Transfigurative Psychotherapy (the Lviv Model)
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The article presents an innovative concept of psychotherapy for addictive disorders, named Transfigurative Psychotherapy (Lviv Model). The authors formulate the theoretical foundations of a psychotherapeutic practice that takes into account the neurobiological, psychological, sociocultural, and existential dimensions of the addiction phenomenon. The proposed model views addiction as a specific state of excessive psychic stability, formed on the basis of a ingrained imagination of "paradisiacal" calm. Ingrained imagination functions as a motivational core that determines repetitive addictive behavior, emotional isolation from reality, and a loss of psychic flexibility. The authors highlight critical directions in psychotherapeutic work: the development of constructive narcissistic regulation (as the restoration of an internal sense of dignity, significance, and self-worth) and the formation of autonomy (the capacity to make responsible decisions based on one’s own needs and values). Narcissistic regulation and autonomy are considered key self-regulation systems that are impaired in the addictive structure. A special place in the model is given to the concept of narcissistic drive — a motivational force that complements the classical psychoanalytic drives (libido and aggression). The narcissistic drive is realized in the personality’s striving to leave a mark in society, gain recognition, and experience a sense of meaningful existence. Constructive regulation of the narcissistic drive integrates libidinal and aggressive impulses into socially acceptable forms of behavior and self-expression, which are necessary for the restoration of personality functioning. Transfigurative Psychotherapy moves addiction treatment beyond traditional models of abstinence, focusing instead on deep psychic and symbolic transformation of the personality.
DOI: 10.25040/2025.01.18
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4411730470