The thesis of this paper is that in recent times focus on the relationship with the analyst and interpretation of transference/countertransference have become too exclusive a center of attention in psychoanalysis. Analysis of the transference is the place where affect is most immediate and alive, it is the most powerful analytic experience; nonetheless, the timing of this focus may have very different effects based on the nature of patients’ problems. While inevitably transference/ countertransference exists from early on, the question is what preparation is necessary for effective use of its interpretation. I will suggest a number of clinical situations in which I believe we would be wise to consider that other approaches may better serve patients, at least at certain periods of analysis, and it would seem beneficial to delay a focus in the relationship or the transference.

Learning Objectives:
At this seminar participants will learn:
1. To consider what factors might lead one to delay focus in the analytic dyad or transference.
2. To appreciate how the difficulties in affect regulation and tolerance interfere with the management of conflict.
3. To appreciate the nature of swings in psychoanalytic theory and technique.

References:
1. Arlow, J. A. (1995) “Stilted Listening: psychoanalysis as discourse.” Psychoana. Q. 64:215-233.
2. Greenberg, J. (2000) “The Analyst’s Participation: a New Look.” J. Amer. Psychoanal. Assn. 49:398-406.
3. Kantrowitz, J. L. (2008) “Employing Multiple Theories and Evoking New Ideas: the use of clinical material..” Internat. J. of Psychoanal. 89:355-368.

Physicians This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the Essential Areas and Policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) through the joint sponsorship of the American Psychoanalytic Association and the Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute. The American Psychoanalytic Association is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians and takes responsibility for the content, quality, and scientific integrity of this CME activity. The American Psychoanalytic Association designates this educational activity for a maximum of 1.5 hours in category 1 credit towards the AMA Physician’s Recognition Award. Each physician should claim only those hours of credit that he/she actually spent in the educational activity. IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE INFORMATION FOR ALL LEARNERS: None of the planners and presenters of this CME program have any relevant financial relationships to disclose. Psychologists The Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. The Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute maintains responsibility for this program and its content. This program fulfills the requirements for 1.5 hours of CE. Social Workers Please contact the Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute’s Administrative Office at 617/266-0953 or office@bostonpsychoanalytic.org for more information.

More information to follow