A Clinical Case of Dog Phobia: A Process of Relational Growth Between Therapist and Client

Un proceso de crecimiento relacional entre terapeuta y cliente

Abstract

This essay examines the treatment of a specific phobia of dogs using a systemic-relational approach during a professional practice at a university psychology center. The clinical case of "Juan," a 45-year-old man with debilitating fear following an attack in his youth, was addressed through brief strategic psychotherapy based on Giorgio Nardone’s proposals. The 12-session therapeutic process included paradoxical prescriptions and direct interventions, enabling gradual exposure to the feared stimulus. The results showed significant progress in the client’s autonomy and interaction with his family environment. From a professional perspective, this essay reflects on the challenges and learnings of applying systemic-strategic models, highlighting their effectiveness in treating phobias. It emphasizes the importance of integrating theory and practice to achieve lasting changes in the client’s perceptual and relational systems.