This book explores the nature of relational psychoanalysis in clinical practice, based on the author’s foundational papers written over the past twenty-five years. As a first generational relational analyst, Bass's book demonstrates the depth, scope and healing power of mutual transformation for patient and analyst alike within the analytic frame. Patient and analyst demonstrably co-create the psychotherapeutic space, situation, structure and experience, and together, promote mutual growth and healing. Drawing on the revolutionary work of Sandor Ferenczi, this book expands our understanding of therapy as a ‘dialogue of unconscious,’ revealing the ways in which the bi-directional currents of unconscious communication may be creatively utilized as an essential therapeutic tool. It sheds light on the conditions for actualizing a flexible, contextual use of the self in therapy, establishing an ever-deeper foundation for clinical work as it progresses. With illuminating case studies and accessible language, this book is a must read for psychotherapists practicing a wide range of dynamically informed approaches and for anyone interested in learning new developments in therapy as it is practiced today.
