The Analytic Encounter: Transference and Human Relationship

Patricia R. Petryshen, B.A., B.Sc.N., M.S.N., lived in London, Ontario.

Mario Jacoby, Ph.D., studied analytical psychology at the C.G. Jung Institute in Zurich and is now a practicing Jungian analyst. His book on the transference and countertransference between analyst and analysand incorporates a series of seminars and lectures as given to audiences in the United States, Europe, Israel, and Brazil.

The book focusses on how the analysand and analyst may feel about therapeutic interactions. Transference and countertransference are discussed in relation to everyday problems that the analyst experiences during therapy. Further, the author explores these phenomena according to the archetype dimensions that lie behind personal involvements as discovered by C.G. Jung (i.e., universal patterns or motifs that come from the collective unconscious and emerge through dreams and visions).

A wide range of relevant clinical topics is discussed: the analytic encounter as viewed by Jung and Freud; identification and projection of transference; the therapeutic value of countertransference; and the relationship between transference and narcissism. Also of interest is the examination of interactions between the analysand and analyst in relation to transference and dream interpretation; I-it and I-thou relationships; the needs of the analyst; and erotic love in analysis. Throughout the text, case studies enhance the author’s description of content and, as well, his theoretical stance. These clinical studies allow the reader to relate many of the cases to similar personal experiences.

It is noted that the author intended this book to be read by the educated layman and professional. Perhaps he could have further explained for which patients transference/countertransference analysis would be most appropriate? For example, the author suggests that one limitation to this type of analysis is that it becomes difficult to interpret transference/countertransference if the analysand is psychotic; however, very little consideration is given to these clinical situations. In addition, the author does not speak of the formal training required by the analyst if this approach to therapy is to be skillfully applied.

In sum, the book provides an interesting and thorough investigation of transference and countertransference from the Jungian perspective. An extensive glossary of terms facilitates the understanding of terminology and concepts. This book would be of interest to analysts who wish to further their understanding of the interaction process between themselves and their analysands. For the educated layman, however, I question the book’s relevance.