A brief overview of integrative and transtheoretical approaches to intervening in affective dysregulation

Affective dysregulation as an element of maladaptive affective experiences is a prevalent aspect of emotional and personality disorders. It can also be described as a hallmark of psychopathology and a central target in psychotherapy. Several theoretical orientations postulate different methods and therapeutic strategies to help patients deal with painful affective states and dysregulated emotions. Different individuals require different intervention modalities that demand a flexible posture from therapists. By focusing on different theoretical aspects of assessment and intervention, clinicians can benefit from combining different instruments, case conceptualizations, and tasks that can be aligned with patient characteristics. Therefore, this chapter briefly outlines an overview of integrative and/or transtheoretical approaches, strategies and tasks to intervene in affective dysregulation. Some key theoretical aspects and strategies of integrative psychotherapies (e.g., Schema Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy) and clinical models are reviewed. Finally, a new affective regulation model is elaborated to help readers reflect on affective assessment, case conceptualization, and clinical decision-making.