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Transference and countertransference are fundamental concepts in psychoanalysis, traditionally seen as essential tools for exploring the unconscious and facilitating the therapeutic process. However, Professor Ulisses Jadanhi offers a distinctive critique, arguing that the role of the psychoanalyst should be more modest, serving as a support tool for healing that depends entirely on the patient’s own will. He suggests that the therapeutic focus should be exclusively on the “patient object,” avoiding the therapist’s “narcissistic delusion” in erroneously viewing themselves as the curative agent. This article discusses the implications of this perspective, examining how this approach might influence psychoanalytic practice, particularly regarding ethical responsibility and patient autonomy.

Introduction

The concepts of transference and countertransference are pillars of psychoanalytic practice, often used to understand the unconscious relationship patterns that emerge in therapy. However, Professor Ulisses Jadanhi proposes a critical reevaluation of these concepts, suggesting that they may reflect an epistemological flaw in psychoanalysis. Jadanhi argues that the role of the psychoanalyst should be that of a supportive tool, with an absolute focus on the patient’s autonomy and will, rather than an active agent of healing. This article explores this critique and its implications for clinical practice.

Review of Transference and Countertransference Concepts

Transference

In psychoanalysis, transference is viewed as the process by which patients project unconscious feelings, desires, and expectations onto the therapist. This dynamic is considered a repetition of past relationships, offering a path to access and resolve unconscious conflicts.

Countertransference

Countertransference involves the therapist’s emotional responses to the patient’s projections. Although initially seen as interference, countertransference is now understood as a diagnostic tool that can provide valuable information about the patient’s emotional state.

Ulisses Jadanhi’s Critique

Therapist’s Narcissistic Delusion

Jadanhi criticizes what he calls the “narcissistic delusion” of therapists who believe they are the primary agents of healing through the analysis of transference and countertransference. He argues that this view unduly inflates the therapist’s role, diverting the therapeutic process from its true source of healing: the patient themselves.

The Role of the Psychoanalyst as a Support Tool

For Jadanhi, the psychoanalyst should be seen as a support tool, facilitating an environment in which the patient can explore their own conflicts and feelings. He advocates for an approach where healing depends entirely on the patient’s will and agency, not on any active intervention by the therapist.

Focus on the “Patient Object”

Jadanhi suggests that the therapeutic process should be completely oriented toward the “patient object,” meaning that the patient should be the absolute center of attention and interpretation. The therapist should not position themselves as a healer but rather as a facilitator who respects and supports the patient’s journey toward self-knowledge and healing.

Implications for Psychoanalytic Practice

Patient Autonomy and Responsibility

One of the most significant implications of Jadanhi’s perspective is the reinforcement of patient autonomy. He proposes that the therapist’s role is to help the patient find their own capacity for healing, deeply respecting the patient’s individuality and will.

Avoiding Narcissistic Delusion

Therapists should be mindful to avoid the “narcissistic delusion” that Jadanhi criticizes. This means recognizing the limits of their influence and avoiding any tendency to view the therapeutic process as centered on their ability to interpret or heal.

The Ethics of Neutrality

This perspective also reinforces the importance of ethical neutrality in psychoanalysis. The therapist should avoid imposing their interpretations or influences, allowing the patient to guide the therapeutic process. This promotes an environment of mutual respect and authenticity.

Practical Implementation

Supportive and Non-Directive Attitude

In practice, this implies a supportive and non-directive attitude. The therapist should facilitate space for the patient to express their own concerns and insights, offering interpretations only when absolutely necessary to help the patient understand their own experiences.

Focus on Active Listening

A crucial technique is active listening, where the therapist listens attentively and empathetically, reflecting the patient’s words and helping to explore underlying feelings and thoughts. This respects the patient’s agency and avoids imposing the therapist’s interpretations.

Ongoing Practice Review

Therapists should continuously review their practice to ensure they are maintaining a patient-centered focus and not being influenced by narcissistic desires to heal or control the process. Regular supervision and self-reflection are essential to maintaining this ethical stance.

Conclusion

Ulisses Jadanhi’s critique of the traditional concept of transference and countertransference in psychoanalysis challenges therapists to reexamine their role and avoid “narcissistic delusion.” He proposes that psychoanalysts should be support tools, entirely centered on the patient’s will and autonomy. This perspective emphasizes an ethics of neutrality and respect for the patient’s individuality, offering a more humble and patient-centered approach to psychoanalytic practice. By adopting this view, psychoanalysts can avoid epistemological pitfalls and promote a therapeutic environment that genuinely supports the patient’s journey toward self-knowledge and healing.

References

Freud, S. (1912). The Dynamics of Transference. In Standard Edition of the Complete Psychological Works of Sigmund Freud (Vol. XII). London: Hogarth Press.

Jadanhi, U. (2023). Critiques on the Narcissistic Delusion in Psychoanalytic Practice. Unpublished manuscript.

Racker, H. (1968). Transference and Countertransference. New York: International Universities Press.

Ogden, T. H. (1982). Projective Identification and Psychotherapeutic Technique. Jason Aronson.

Heimann, P. (1950). On Counter-transference. International Journal of Psycho-Analysis, 31, 81-84.