Customer Reviews

Psychotherapy: An Erotic Relationship: Transference and Countertransference Passions

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Mann writes, "It is my proposition that the emergence of the erotic transference signifies the patients deepest wish for growth. Like those in love, patients wish to be known and understood, to change what they do not like about themselves, to alter what makes them unlovable. Through the erotic light is shone on the deepest recesses of the psyche...The erotic transference, therefore, is the most powerful and positive quality in the therapeutic process. The development of the erotic transference is a major transitional stage in which the repetitive and transformational desire of the patient's unconscious meet at a passionate junction. The heart of the unconscious is visible in all it's 'elemental passion', and in so opening allows for the prospect of transformation and psychic growth."

Upon stating this thesis the author then methodically proceeds to offer evidence in a thorough review of the literature and in some very interesting case studies. He actually served as the therapist for a man who killed his father and married his mother, Oedipus incarnate! Mann is very eloquent and I believe he contributes greatly to the discussion on transference.

I very much enjoyed this book, which takes the reader beyond the classical view that erotic transference and countertransference signal forms of resistance, and instead looks at the inherent sensuality and sexuality in the therapy couple, and how this can be understood and worked with to effect transformation. David Mann takes us on a journey of the erotic, of love, showing us how this is at the basis of everything within us, and thus also at the basis of the therapy relationship.