Beginning Analysis: On the Processes of Initiating Psychoanalysis

This unique contribution to the surprisingly sparse literature on this most essential aspect of the psychoanalytical practitioner’s work, is the clinical companion to Initiating Psychoanalysis: Perspectives, also part of the ‘Teaching’ Series of the New Library of Psychoanalysis.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 16 February 2018
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The clinical companion to Initiating Psychoanalysis: Perspectives, this book is a unique contribution to the surprisingly sparse literature on this most essential aspect of the psychoanalytical practitioner's work. It is the clinical companion to Initiating Psychoanalysis: Perspectives, also part of the 'Teaching Series of the New Library of Psychoanalysis. Replete with clinical illustrations, this book is based on the findings of an ambitious research project on first interviews carried out from 2004 to 2016 by an international group of psychoanalysts, the Working Party on Initiating Psychoanalysis (WPIP) of the European Psychoanalytic Federation. The authors, all members of the Investigative Team, are senior psychoanalysts from member societies of the European Psychoanalytic Federation, all with extensive experience in the practice and teaching of psychoanalytic consultation.

Psychoanalysts and analytic therapists, in particular those in training or setting up their practice, will find Beginning Analysis to be essential reading in deepening their understanding of how analysand and analyst arrive at the decision to begin analysis.

The first meeting between the analyst and the prospective analysand is a crucial moment in the psychoanalytic process, marking the beginning of a journey of exploration and self-discovery. It is a time when the analyst assesses the potential analysand's suitability for analysis and determines whether the conditions are right for the therapeutic relationship to thrive.

The analyst begins by introducing themselves and their background, explaining their training and experience in psychoanalysis. They may also provide information about their theoretical orientation and approach to therapy. The prospective analysand, in turn, may introduce themselves and share some of their background and concerns.

During the first meeting, the analyst may use a variety of techniques to assess the analysand's emotional state, cognitive functioning, and interpersonal relationships. They may ask open-ended questions, observe the analysand's body language and facial expressions, and listen carefully to their verbal responses. The analyst may also use psychoanalytic concepts and theories to interpret the analysand's behavior and provide insight into their underlying motivations and conflicts.

One of the key processes activated during the first meeting is the establishment of trust and rapport. The analyst aims to create a safe and supportive environment where the analysand can feel comfortable expressing themselves and exploring their thoughts and feelings. This requires the analyst to be patient, empathetic, and non-judgmental, and to demonstrate a genuine interest in the analysand's well-being.

Another important process activated during the first meeting is the establishment of boundaries. The analyst and the prospective analysand need to establish clear guidelines and expectations for the therapeutic relationship. This includes discussing the frequency and duration of sessions, the confidentiality of the information shared, and the payment of fees.

The first meeting also provides an opportunity for the analyst to explain the psychoanalytic process and its goals. The analyst may describe the different stages of analysis, such as the identification of transference and countertransference, the exploration of unconscious motivations and conflicts, and the development of self-awareness and self-regulation. They may also discuss the potential benefits and challenges of psychoanalysis and answer any questions the prospective analysand may have.

In conclusion, the first meeting between the analyst and the prospective analysand is a critical moment in the psychoanalytic process. It is a time when the analyst assesses the potential analysand's suitability for analysis, establishes trust and rapport, and sets the stage for the therapeutic relationship to begin. The analyst may use a variety of techniques to assess the analysand's emotional state, cognitive functioning, and interpersonal relationships, and may use psychoanalytic concepts and theories to interpret their behavior. The establishment of boundaries and the explanation of the psychoanalytic process are also important processes activated during the first meeting. By creating a safe and supportive environment and establishing clear guidelines and expectations, the analyst can help the prospective analysand embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

Weight: 604g
Dimension: 247 x 177 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138579286