This classic text is about how an analyst analyzes. Rooted in the theory of psychoanalytic self psychology as put forth by Heinz Kohut and his colleagues, Treating the Self focuses on the application of the self-psychological concept of the psyche to the actual conduct of psychoanalytic treatment. The result is not a "how-to" approach, but rather a volume that suggests a theory of treatment and offers guidelines for creative ways of thinking about therapy. Written by Ernest Wolf, a close collaborator of Heinz Kohut, this is a personal account of the process of self psychology presented by one of the foremost experts in the field.
1. Introduction: Historical Development
2. General Orientation: The Inner Life of Man
3. Basic Concepts of Self Psychology
4. Selfs and Selfobjects
5. Selfobject Relations Disorders: Disorders of the Self
6. Narcissistic Rage
II. Treatment
7. The Setting
8. Principles
9. The Therapeutic Process
10. Selfobject Transferences
11. Countertransference Issues
12. Analytic Reality
13. Termination
Appendices: I. Medications. II. Third-Party Relations.
Glossary of Self Psychology Terms
Biography
Ernest S. Wolf, MD, a close collaborator of Heinz Kohut, is Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Northwestern University Medical School and serves as faculty and training analyst at the Chicago Institute for Psychoanalysis. He also sits on the Scientific Advisory Boards of the Center for Psychosocial Studies in Chicago, Illinois and the Clinical-Developmental Institute in Belmont, Massachusetts.
Ernest Wolf, a student, friend, and collaborator of Heinz Kohut has observed at close range and participated in the evolution of psychoanalytic self psychology. From his privileged vantage point he presents us with a clear, concise, at at times moving rendtion of the treatment process based on his own clinical experiences. Wolf's focus is on clarifying basic concepts, but he also succeeds in portraying the complexities of the clinical ambience and process in a direct and simple manner without glossing over controversies. Beginners as well as seasoned clinicians will find this text both a delight and a challenge. --Paul H. Ornstein, M.D.-This book is a bench mark in the literature....An invaluable resource for practitioners, students, and teachers of self psychology.--The Psychoanalytic Quarterly, 9/26/2002ƒƒWolf has succeeded in clarifying and communicating the essence of self psychology. In this lucid introductory text, he outlines its theory and practice.--Journal of Group Analytic Psychotherapy, 9/26/2002ƒƒA helpful, stimulating, and thought-provoking presentation of treatment according to the self-psychology model.--International Journal of Psychoanalysis, 9/26/2002
