Edward J. Khantzian

About the Author

Edward J. Khantzian is a psychiatrist, educator, and influential writer on addiction and the emotional lives of people affected by substance use. His work brings psychodynamic insight, clinical experience, and a compassionate understanding of vulnerability to the study and treatment of addiction. He is particularly associated with approaches that explore how substances may be used to regulate distress and cope with painful emotions. Khantzian’s scholarship has helped shape discussions of substance abuse treatment, self-medication, and therapeutic group work. His notable book, Addiction and the Vulnerable Self: Modified Dynamic Group Therapy for Substance Abusers (The Guilford Substance Abuse Series), reflects his commitment to humane, clinically grounded care.