Between Classic Interpretation and Analytic Presence: Discussion of Elizabeth Seward’s Paper

Abstract

This discussion compares interventions that are derived from reverie, bodily sensations, and dreams, with traditional transference interpretations. Using Seward’s clinical vignettes, the author delineates subtle differences between projective identification, enactments, and the selfobject function. She suggests that body-mind-self experiences of the analyst bring the selfobject function to its most precise position. Furthermore, she argues that evocation of images, body sensations, and disclosed dreams are, in fact, interpretations and that such interventions do not strive to generate repetitions but to promote potential space and openness to disavowed areas of the mind. These interventions, says the author, are not better than traditional verbal interpretations or more correct but sometimes simply more useful to the patient.

Keywords:

• dreams
• empathic attunement
• enactment
• forward edge interpretation
• images
• projective identification
• reverie
• selfobject function
• transference interpretation

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Gabriela Mann

Gabriela Mann, Ph.D., is a Clinical Psychologist and Training Analyst, a founding member of the Tel Aviv Institute of Contemporary Psychoanalysis and of Human Spirit, Psychoanalytic-Buddhist Training Program, Lod, Israel. She is also the Chair of the Post Graduate Program in Self Psychology and the Therapeutic Action, Tel Aviv University Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Program of Psychotherapy.