Relational Theory and the Practice of Psychotherapy

This important and innovative book explores a new direction in psychoanalytic thought that can expand and deepen clinical practice. Relational psychoanalysis diverges in key ways from the assumptions and practices that have traditionally characterized psychoanalysis. At the same time, it preserves, and even extends, the profound understanding of human experience and psychological conflict that has always been the strength of the psychoanalytic approach. Through probing theoretical analysis and illuminating examples, the book offers new and powerful ways to revitalize clinical practice. See also Wachtel's Therapeutic Communication, Second Edition: Knowing What to Say When, an integrative, practical guide for therapists of all orientations.

Paul L. Wachtel, PhD, Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, City College and the Graduate Center, City University of New York, USA

"We have needed a book like this. Wachtel has artfully charted the sea change from classical to intersubjective formulations and has made clear what the relational turn means for clinicians...In a voice that is unfailingly respectful and integrative, Wachtel explores core elements of the contemporary relational movement, ties those themes to relevant clinical challenges, and in the process provides a condensed but remarkably comprehensive course in the history of psychoanalytic ideas." - Nancy McWilliams, Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, USA "This conceptually rich volume...will be valuable to psychodynamic therapists working towards more effective approaches to intervention, and to cognitive-behavioral therapists who wish to explore the richness of the psychotherapeutic relationship and of inner experience. It would be an excellent text for a graduate seminar exploring contemporary approaches to psychoanalysis or integrative approaches to ps