Lessons in Psychoanalysis: Psychopathology and Clinical Psychoanalysis for Trainee Analysts

Franco De Masi's Lessons in Psychoanalysis is a comprehensive and insightful guide to psychoanalytic clinical work, drawing on successful teaching experiences to provide valuable lessons and discussions on psychopathology and the unconscious. It covers key topics such as diagnosis, transference, analytic impasse, regression, anxiety, trauma, depression, narcissism, and psychic withdrawal, incorporating neuroscientific research to broaden the discussion. This book is essential reading for trainee psychoanalysts and students, as well as qualified professionals seeking to enhance their understanding and practice of analytic therapy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 180 pages
Publication date: 08 September 2022
Publisher: Phoenix Publishing House

Franco De Masi, a renowned educator with a wealth of experience in teaching analysts in training, has compiled a comprehensive and insightful book titled Lessons in Psychoanalysis. Drawing upon his extensive teaching expertise, De Masi has carefully selected the most significant lessons and added a few fresh perspectives to enrich the discussion of psychopathology and psychoanalytic clinical work.

The book begins with a broad overview of psychoanalysis, encompassing its scientific status, fundamental theories, and models of the unconscious. De Masi delves into the intricate mechanisms through which the unconscious registers emotional reality, providing a foundational understanding of the subject matter.

Following this introductory chapter, the book proceeds with detailed chapters that delve into key topics closely related to clinical practice. De Masi begins by exploring the challenges of diagnosis in psychoanalysis, emphasizing the importance of a patient's clinical history in understanding their emotional struggles. He then delves into the realm of transference and the analytic relationship, recognizing these as central components of clinical work. Chapters on the analytic impasse, the use of countertransference, and other vital themes such as regression, anxiety, phobias, trauma, depersonalization, melancholic and non-melancholic depression, narcissism, and psychic withdrawal are presented in depth.

Throughout the book, De Masi makes a compelling case that analytic concepts are not rigid but rather evolve over time through the collective contributions of numerous scholars and clinicians. To illustrate this point, he provides a detailed account of how ideas gradually coalesce to form a concept, showcasing the dynamic nature of analytic thought. By tracing the trajectory of these ideas, readers gain a deeper understanding of the richness and flexibility of analytic concepts, enabling them to embrace new contributions while preserving their core essence.

In addition to his theoretical insights, De Masi incorporates data from neuroscientific research to broaden the discussion and demonstrate the interconnectedness of psychoanalysis with other related fields. His work highlights the potential of psychoanalysis to be a unitary body that accommodates diverse models and theories, even when they may diverge in their perspectives.

Lessons in Psychoanalysis is a valuable resource for analysts, psychotherapists, and anyone interested in exploring the depths of human psychology. It offers a comprehensive and accessible introduction to psychoanalysis, providing a solid foundation for understanding and applying its principles in clinical practice. With its rich content, insightful analysis, and interdisciplinary approach, this book is sure to inspire and engage readers on their journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781912691883