What, Where Is Psychoanalysis: Classic Concepts, New Meanings

Online - November 13 - December 10, 2017

Andrea Celenza, Ph.D., instructor

This course, designed for students, teachers and practitioners, traces the history of psychoanalytic theorizing and technique from classical positivist, one-person conceptualizations to a relational, two-person, intersubjective engagement and beyond, including contemporary perspectives on field theory. This trajectory is designed to highlight selected basic concepts from both classical and contemporary perspectives, examining the epistemological underpinnings of each as psychoanalytic theorizing is transformed throughout its history. Each topic is covered from an historical vantage point to establish a foundation of the concept as it was originally conceived. Then these concepts are reformulated through a postmodern lens with a resultant discussion of the changes that ensued due to the transformations of theory and technique.

Readings have been selected that represent seminal moments in the history of psychoanalytic thinking, marking a turning point, or an elaboration of the concept.  By studying the watershed shifts that have occurred in psychoanalytic theorizing, participants will be able to evolve their practice of psychoanalytic psychotherapy to a higher, more sophisticated level, broadening and deepening their clinical practice. Instructors and supervisors will be able to teach psychoanalytic technique and practice from a well-rounded and broad perspective.  Participants are also exposed to the most contemporary thinking in analytic practice (field theory) as developments around the world have enriched psychoanalytic practice.

Learning Objectives:

1) Demonstrate a working knowledge of the differences between classical and contemporary psychoanalytic stances in relation to their patients

2) Describe the ways in which psychoanalytic theory and technique varies across time (historically) and space (geographically)

3) Discuss the various meanings of transference and countertransference as well as trace how these concepts changed over time, especially through differing epistemological lenses

PPP17-2 | 18 CE Credits | $450

The Center for Psychoanalytic Studies offers a unique opportunity to learn online from world-renowned leaders in the field. Our faculty lead four-week, 18 CE credit courses that combine online lecture, threaded discussion, assigned readings, independent work, and a final live one (1) hour webinar, (date and time TBD).

Andrea Celenza, PhD, Assistant Clinical Professor, Harvard Medical School; Faculty, Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute and Massachusetts Institute for Psychoanalysis. Author, Erotic Revelations: Clinical Applications and Perverse Scenarios and Sexual Boundary Violations: Therapeutic, Supervisory and Academic Contexts. She is Co-Director (with Martha Stark, MD) of the Center for Psychoanalytic Studies.