Holding and Psychoanalysis: A Relational Perspective (Relational Perspectives Book Series, V. 5)

Rating:
Summary: A Contemporary Perspective on Holding in Clinical Work
Review: This excellent book represents a sophisticated integration of theory and clinical practice. It offers both dynamically oriented therapists and psychoanalysts a framework that is especially helpful in working with extremely difficult patients who do not respond to standard therapy technique. Slochower uses the notion of holding to describe the therapist's attempt to contain the patient's intense affective responses as well as the therapists struggle to hold himself. Slochower extends holding beyond Winnicott's conception of regression by 1)applying the model to work with borderline and narcissistic patients and 2)by addressing the therapist's participation in the holding process from a relational perspective. Her book is replete with rich clinical examples, illustrating the use of holding with patients struggling with issues of dependence, self involvement, ruthlessness and hate. Throughout the text, she also discusses instances in which the holding stance failed, and carefully addresses the clinical pitfalls of work within a holding metaphor. An especially interesting chapter addresses the holding theme outside the consulting room, in Jewish mourning ritual. A 'must read' for the contemporary clinician, whether of Freudian, Interpersonal, Self Psychological or Relational persuasion.

Rating:
Summary: contemporary psychoanalysis
Review: Unusually lucid, clinically relevant and rich descriptions of difficult patient situations. Theoretically useful update on Winnicott's work on holding. Highly recommended for therapists working with difficult patients.