Abstract:
The present paper focuses on Self Psychology Approach and a case study following this approach. First, Self Psychology Theory will be introduced following the main ideas of theory’s founder Heinz Kohut. In this part, the structure and development of self, selfobject needs and self disorders will be explained. Mainly, two selfobject needs (mirroring and idealizing need) will be the focus. Following this introduction to the theory, self-psychologically oriented psychotherapy process will be discussed along with its major intervention principles. Then, a case with avoidant personality characteristics will be introduced and formulated according to Self Psychology. The case will be conceptualized as a self disorder; and the narcissistic needs possibly not enough met during childhood will be emphasized. At the final part, the psychotherapy process, and experiences of the therapist will be shared. Through this study, it is aimed to highlight that psychotherapists should focus on clients’ needs, stay in the here-in-now, listen, make an effort to understand, and show this effort to the clients. It is also emphasized that ruptures during therapy should not be the moments that therapists should be afraid of, but instead they should be perceived as opportunities for the growth of clients as well as the therapeutic relationship.

Keywords: Self psychology, avoidant personality, case study, self disorders, narcissistic needs