The Impact of Narcissism: The Errant Therapist on a Chaotic Quest

While many recent advances in dynamic psychotherapy are clinically relevant, others represent change for its own sake, offer little clinical data to support their theoretical constructs, and are primarily motivated by therapists’ need to enhance themselves. Narcissism plays an increasingly important role as a defensive adaptation and a characterological trait in the majority of patients seen today. It is a powerful force that often dominates treatment. Focusing on the interplay of narcissism and countertransference, Dr. Giovacchini demonstrates with numerous clinical examples how the intrapsychic focus is deepened when explored in this context. His frank discussion of transference-countertransference feelings enriches clinical vistas and enables therapists to be more creative and autonomous.