Psychotherapy provides, for both therapist and patient, a potent(ial) space for creative elaboration of desire, with transformational and generative possibilities. Evolving literature significantly aids thinking about erotic transference and countertransference, yet reading alone is not sufficient to work through the clinician’s anxieties and inhibitions about engaging Eros. The problem of being overwhelmed and flustered by erotic feeling is formidable; it is challenging to be able to interpret in the midst of passionate feeling.
Just as patients need time in a supportive context to face fears, so do clinicians. Overcoming obstacles to explicit discussion regarding erotic feeling requires courage so that avoidance does not prevail. In this daylong seminar, the focus will be on creating safety to explore personal resistances to a deeper inquiry with patients. Through direct discussion of countertransference, readings, and clinical material, we will delve more deeply into concerns regarding this provocative treatment matrix.
- Participants will be able to demonstrate their knowledge of evolving analytic theory on erotic transference and countertransference, and will be able to apply this knowledge to their clinical work.
- Participants will be able to analyze the resistances that persist in countertransference avoidance to engaging erotic feeling in treatment.
- Participants will be able to critically assess the difference levels of erotic transference and countertransference, and will be able to demonstrate an increased ability in working with patients to address and work through this material.
This course is for clinicians with intermediate to advanced skills and experience in clinical work from a psychoanalytic perspective.
Enrollees who cancel at least SEVEN DAYS prior to the event date will receive a refund minus a $35 administrative charge. No refunds will be allowed after this time.
For program related questions contact Elise Geltman, LCSW at elisegeltman.lcsw@gmail.com or 510-239-3443.
For questions related to enrollment, locations, CE credit, special needs, course availability and other administrative issues contact Michele McGuinness by email or 415-496-9949.
Education Committee
The Education Committee is responsible for the development of a variety of courses and workshops given throughout the year in San Francisco and the East Bay.