On the methodology of process psychotherapy

This article presents the author's contemporary view on the concept of a unified family of psychotherapeutic methods, which he develops and designates as "process methods". The goal is to present the general methodological properties of specific process approaches. A list of characteristics is given by which the psychotherapeutic method can be classified as process method. The most general features of the techniques contributing to the unfolding of the healing process are described. Both the general principles underlying process methods and the nature of the healing process unfolding in each method are described. The place of process methods within the overall framework of psychotherapeutic methods is outlined. The relationship between process and meditative approaches is examined. The importance of process methods as tools for psychological treatment of somatic illnesses is emphasized. The application of process methods as tools for self-regulation and self-therapy is considered. Directions for the necessary development of a general process methodology are outlined. Conclusions are drawn regarding the usefulness of the concept of a unified family of process methods for practitioners, developers of new process methods, and researchers of unified mechanisms underlying psychotherapy.