9. Reaching the Unreachable through Fantasy and Playing in Adult Psychotherapy
Presenter: |
Michelle Stern, MA |
Chair: |
Patricia M. Schlesinger, MD, PsyD |
Self Psychology Page | 21th Conference
Program
In this paper I have tried to explore why the use of fantasy and play were so effective with two patients. I have viewed a fantasy or story as a transitional selfobject, which facilitates the temporary meeting of selfobject needs allowing for relief from dysphoric states. Through the interactive playing with the stories and fantasies with the patient in the room, the attuned responses of the emotionally available therapist leads to new structure formation and psychic change. This is particularly useful for patients with schizoid dynamics who are resistant to using people for the responses that they most need.