This book brings the reader behind the closed door of the psychotherapy office through a selection of nine riveting psychotherapy and psychoanalytic case studies.

Each story delves into the hearts and minds of memorable patients and their therapist, as they grapple with loss, betrayal, anxiety, depression, suicidality, substance abuse and other symptoms. With a strong relational focus, the author examines the mis-attunements, ruptures, and enactments that occurred in each treatment and explores in each case what she might have done differently-if she could turn back time. Each story is brought to life with her warm, empathic style and honest reflections, as she shares her thoughts, feelings, reveries, and clinical decision-making in the treatment room. The myriads of emotional challenges in each case study will resonate deeply with anyone who has been in therapy, and with both new and seasoned clinicians.

With a warm and accessible style and wonderful attention to detail, this book is an essential reading for psychoanalysts and psychotherapists wanting to get a better understanding of how to work with challenging patients, and for anyone interested in understanding the unique challenges of psychoanalytic work.

About the Author

Beth Feldman, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist and relational psychoanalyst with a private practice in Plainview, New York. She treats adults and adolescents in individual, couples, and group therapy. Beth is the co-host of the podcast "Being a Parent is Hard!" She is adjunct faculty at Post Graduate Program in Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis, Derner Institute, Adelphi University. Beth has two adult children and lives with her husband and three dogs.

Reviews

'While it is often said that we learn more from our mistakes than our successes, few analysts dare to revisit what went wrong. Beth Feldman, however, boldly steps into that space, offering nine riveting case studies from her clinical practice. With rare transparency, she invites readers behind the closed doors of the therapy room and into the mind of an analyst grappling with the emotional and intellectual challenges of treatment-both during and long after it ends. Feldman's gift for storytelling shines on every page, guiding us through moments of laughter, tears, anxiety, and awe as we witness the profound transformations that reshape both therapist and patient.'

Danielle Knafo, PhD, psychoanalyst, professor, author

Book Information
ISBN 9781032892511
Author Beth Feldman
Format Paperback
Page Count 170
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd