Fragmented Images: How Can the Eye See Itself? A Relational and Intersubjective Reformulation of Cross-Cultural Therapy with Cecilia

Abstract

This article discusses why it is crucial in the cross-cultural clinical encounter to practice from both Jessica Benjamin's intersubjective frame as well as relational theory when the therapist is from the dominant White culture and the client is African American. Intersubjective and relational theories are utilized to illustrate how it is in this clinical situation, however, that some therapists may find themselves avoiding the use of a more relational practice. A case illustration is presented from the lens of Winnicott's theory of object relations to convey the dynamic complexities that may impede a therapist from practicing out of these (more relational) frames and then the case is reconceptualized from both a relational and intersubjective perspective.

KEYWORDS:

• cross-cultural therapy
• Winnicott
• intersubjectivity
• relational practice

Notes

¹The author is cognizant of the historic existence of tensions and atrocities among various racial and ethnic groups and as a result the need to be sensitive to these realities in all cross-cultural clinical encounters. The inclusion and discussion of the historic relations among other racial/ethnic groups and how they impact cross-cultural work is beyond the scope of this article.

²Benjamin's intersubjective frame and relational theory will be explored in more detail in the proceeding portions of this article, as they are interwoven into the case discussion.

³This case is a composite I created and it represents an amalgam of the clinical work I have engaged in with various clients.