This book offers an in-depth explanation of the concepts of Self Psychology and pragmatic steps for recognizing and using these concepts in clinical work, helping clinicians move from theory to practice.
Both early and contemporary concepts in self psychology and intersubjectivity theory are discussed in successive chapters of the book, with illustrative examples drawn the author’s experience working in diverse settings with a wide range of mental health practitioners. Individual chapters shed light on brief treatment, supervision, interpretation, development, agency, and nuances of empathic communication, among other topics. In addressing these topics, specific tools for conceptualizing clinical data and guidelines for intervention are also described. The emphasis on helping people via a sustained focus on their internal, subjective experience and creating a new selfobject bond with the therapist unifies the chapters in this volume.
With its rich clinical vignettes and accessible language, Self Psychology: Moving from Theory to Practice is also a valuable resource for supervisors and teachers of self psychology, whether in analytic training institutes, graduate schools of psychology, counseling and social work, or education programs.
Part One 1.Self Psychology: Its Essence and Clinical Importance 2.Application to Brief Psychotherapy: A Case Example 3.Practical Steps for Using Self Psychology in Brief Treatment 4.Supervision of Trainees Part Two 5.Interpretation and Development 6.Self-agency, Defense and the Forward Edge 7.Transference and the Self Part Three 8.Nuances of Empathic Communication 9. Self Psychology: Journeys and Generations
Biography
Jill R. Gardner, Ph.D. is a Clinical Psychologist in private practice in Chicago, Illinois, where she has also served as Lecturer and Professional Development Program faculty at the University of Chicago.
'In Self Psychology: Moving from Theory to Practice Jill Gardner, a superlative teacher, helps both the psychoanalytic beginner and the seasoned therapist to understand Self Psychology, one of the most important theories/practices in recent psychoanalysis. She does not choose between theory and practice, but shows how they stimulate and enrich each other. Her inviting writing helps the reader to embrace essential lifelong learning. I love this book.'
Donna M. Orange, PhD, PsyD, faculty, NYU postdoc and the Institute for the Psychoanalytic Study of Subjectivity, New York
'Jill Gardner has written a superbly lucid volume that brings the therapist into the consulting room and addresses the needs of clinicians who struggle to integrate theory with clinical practice. Demonstrating masterful understanding, this accessible and wonderful book is also a valuable resource for supervisors and teachers as it traces the history of Self Psychology’s healing powers.'
Richard A. Geist, Ed.D., Massachusetts Institute for Psychoanalysis; Clinical Instructor part time Emeritus, Harvard Medical School
'Endorsing Jill Gardner’s new book, Self Psychology: Moving from Theory to Practice, fills me with pride and pleasure. I am amazed at the clarity and depth of her understanding of the clinical process, and I am certain that clinicians, whether experienced or novice, will profit greatly from reading Jill Gardner’s new contribution.'
Estelle Shane, Ph.D, faculty, and training and supervising analyst, The Institute for Contemporary Psychoanalysis, Los Angeles; faculty member and training and supervising analyst, The New Center for Psychoanalysis, Los Angeles.
