The Therapeutic Action of Play: Discussion of Dr. Mirkin’s Case Presentation

ABSTRACT

In my discussion of Dr. Marina Mirkin’s case, I focus on three topics that stimulated my own thinking about this treatment and child analytic treatment in general. First, I comment on the question the author raises several times in her paper: Why did a relatively benign congenital condition leave such a consequential imprint on the patient’s psychological development? Second, I address the use of play in this analysis and its contribution to the therapeutic action. Third, I underscore the role of the developmental process in the therapeutic action of this child’s treatment.

KEYWORDS:

• Play
• therapeutic action
• disability
• child analysis

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Judith A. Yanof

Judith A. Yanof, MD is a Training and Supervising Analyst and Child Supervisor at the Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute.