[A psychodynamic approach in counselling vulnerable persons for Chorea Huntington -- a case report]

Abstract

The availability of predictive testing for neurodegenerative diseases such as Chorea Huntington has far-reaching consequences on psychological, ethical, and legal issues. The special situation of persons vulnerable for the disease requires a comprehensive counselling including psychotherapeutic measures. On the basis of a case report, the authors outline a psychodynamic practice, which intends not only the identification of deliberate arguments and development of coping strategies, but also a clarification of unconscious backgrounds and expectations. In the discussion, the necessity of sufficient time is stressed that allows the reflection of repressed motives in respect of the genetic testing.