7. The Impact on Psychoanalysis of
Concurrent "Other" Therapies:
An Intersubjective Perspective
Presenter: |
Joan C. Dasteel, PhD, BCD, MSW |
Chair: |
Martin S. Livingston, PhD |
Self Psychology Page | 21th Conference
Program
The transference and countertransference matrix which occurs in psychoanalysis is central to treatment, and is seriously complicated by additional treatment relationships simultaneously experienced by the analysand. These may include treatment with psycho-pharmacologists, group and marital therapists, medical practitioners, hypnotherapists, spiritual advisors, acupuncturists, massage therapists, chiropractors, nutritionists, educational or dance therapists, etc. An exploration of the multiple transference and countertransference issues involved and an unraveling and assessing of the tripartite or multiple subjectivities will enrich the analysis and offer the maximum opportunity for a successful outcome.
Case material is offered to illustrate complicated issues which occurred in several concurrent treatments. The analysis of "Sara", a 67 year old manic depressive artist, is offered in some detail to describe complex transferences and countertransferences which developed in response to her simultaneous hypnotherapy treatment. Other cases are described briefly: "Bob", who suffered from an obsessive compulsive disorder, illustrates a negative treatment outcome, apparently precipitated by my referring him for a medication assessment. "Marcia" illustrates the positive effect that concurrent group therapy had for a survivor of early prolonged sexual and psychological abuse.
There is discussion of issues relevant to psychopharmacology, hypnosis, group therapy, marital therapy, prior therapists and supervision and consultation as they relate to each case. The purpose of the paper is to alert therapists to the frequency and seriousness of dual therapies, and to open the door to further exploration of issues which arise.