Contemporary Psychodrama weaves together psychodrama and psychoanalysis with illustrative clinical examples, whilst preserving the essence of psychodramatic philosophy and methodology. Previously unavailable in the English language, this book presents José Fonseca's diverse new approaches to psychodrama together with a blending of theories. The book is divided into clear sections, covering: * new approaches to psychodrama theory * new approaches to psychodrama technique * psychodrama and sexuality * the past and future of psychodrama. Fonseca's innovative ideas include the adaptation of techniques originally intended for groups to individual psychodramatic psychotherapy. He distinguishes between not only the normal and the mentally ill but the normal and the optimal, and presents a detailed developmental psychology, inspired by Moreno and Buber, but clearly influenced by object relations theory. Contemporary Psychodrama presents the original concepts of a leading light of the Brazilian psychodrama movement that will be of great benefit to all professionals working with psychodrama. José Fonseca, M.D., Ph.D., was one of the pioneers of the psychodramatic movement in Brazil and a founder of the Brazilian federation of psychodrama. He has published two books in Brazil, Psychodrama of Madness and Relationship Psychotherapy.

This book approaches contemporary psychodrama from many contexts and population application from different regions of Brazil. It presents the diversity of local culture, the originality with which psychodramatic philosophy emerges in the Brazilian scenario. It introduces the theoretical-methodological procedures that reaffirm psychodrama as a scientific instrument of social action. The chapters cover the philosophical and theoretical foundations and the new socio-psycho-educational methodologies applied in clinical practices, sociotherapy, politics and society. It is a helpful resource for professionals and academics interested in the development of innovative applications of Psychodrama.

In a book that is both intelligent and enriching, the authors show how surplus reality can change lives. Psychodramatists and mental health professionals who wish to take therapy beyond the 'verbal' will find the book valuable reading.