Analytic Trust and Transference: Love, Healing Ruptures and Facilitating Repairs

Abstract

In this article, I give an overview of a contemporary Freudian theory of the analytic process. In this theory, the concept of analytic trust is a central component of each phase of the analytic process. Each phase of the treatment is conceived of as a series of transference cycles (Freedman and Lavender, 1997), and during each cycle there are both necessary ruptures and repairs that either endanger or facilitate the transition to the next transference cycle. Gradually, as love develops between the analytic pair, the ruptures that occur in the transference cycles are more easily endured. As love develops, the survival of the analytic pair is less and less of an issue. In addition, the necessary ruptures that occur in transitions between the transference cycles are also more easily endured. Surviving each rupture enhances analytic trust and deepens the love between the analytic pair. The theory borrows and attempts to integrate aspects of several positions, including self-psychology, Winnicott, Klein, and Bion. Although it is my view that what I am positing is important for all analytic patients, in this article I focus on two types of patients, narcissistic and borderline patients.