Turning Points in Adolescent Psychoanalysis and the Centrality of Transference Interpretation: A Discussion of Dr. Lament’s Case of Grace

ABSTRACT

In the discussion of Dr. Lament’s evocative and moving presentation of 15 year old Grace’s treatment, I focus on the technical necessity of transference interpretation in adolescent analysis. I believe that the pendulum may have swung too far in the direction of developmental help and that a correction is indicated. Issues of turning points in analysis, countertransference, apres-coup, and termination are also briefly discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• Turning points
• transference
• countertransference
• interpretation
• termination

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Calvern E. Narcisi

Calvern E. Narcisi, M.D. is a Training and Supervising Analyst in Adult, Child, and Adolescent Psychoanalysis at The Denver Institute for Psychoanalysis and Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at The University of Colorado School of Medicine. He is a past Director of The Denver Institute and past Co-Chair of The Board on Professional Standards of The American Psychoanalytic Association.