The Psychoanalytic Encounter and the Misuse of Theory

Lee Grossman's book "The Analytic Encounter" bridges the gap between analytic literature and clinical work by highlighting the intensity of feeling and the stumbling, lurching, working in the dark that characterizes clinical engagement. Grossman proposes that attention to the syntax of thought can define three broad categories of life experience: neurotic omnipotence, perverse wishful thinking, and psychotic concrete thinking. The book offers new ways of conceptualizing analytic therapy as an encounter between two people governed by forces about which they know little, providing essential insights for psychoanalysts, psychotherapists, and other clinical practitioners.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 178 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Lee Grossman's book, "The Analytic Encounter: An Introduction to Psychoanalytic Theory and Technique," is a groundbreaking work that seeks to bridge the gap between analytic literature and clinical work. Grossman recognizes the limitations of traditional analytic theory, which often fails to capture the depth and complexity of clinical experience. He argues that incomprehensibility, rather than being seen as a sign of weakness, can be understood as a valuable aspect of the therapeutic process.

Grossman proposes that attention to the syntax of thought can help define three broad categories of life experience: the omnipotence of the neurotic, the wishful, short-sighted thinking of the perverse, and the concrete, disordered thinking of the psychotic. He uses rich clinical material, interspersed with detailed exposition and artful satire, to illustrate these categories and provide new ways of conceptualizing analytic therapy.

One of the key insights of the book is that analytic therapy is an encounter between two people, both governed by forces about which they know very little. Grossman emphasizes the importance of humility and openness in the therapeutic relationship, as well as the need for clinicians to be willing to explore and understand the unconscious processes that underlie their patients' symptoms.

The book is highly relevant for psychoanalysts, psychotherapists, and other clinical practitioners both in training and in practice. It provides essential insights into the therapeutic process, the nature of the unconscious, and the role of the clinician in facilitating change. Grossman's writing is accessible and engaging, making it an invaluable resource for anyone interested in psychoanalysis and clinical practice.

In conclusion, Lee Grossman's "The Analytic Encounter: An Introduction to Psychoanalytic Theory and Technique" is a groundbreaking work that seeks to bridge the gap between analytic literature and clinical work. Grossman's insights into the therapeutic process, the unconscious, and the role of the clinician are essential for anyone interested in psychoanalysis and clinical practice. His writing is accessible, engaging, and highly relevant, making it an invaluable resource for clinicians and students alike.

Weight: 353g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032419244