Elusive Elements in Practice

This volume explores unconventional ideas in psychoanalytic psychotherapy, emphasizing themes like spirituality and creativity, as presented in Elusive Elements in Practice.

The third volume in the Practice of Psychotherapy series, Elusive Elements in Practice assembles a diverse collection of papers that delve into concepts often deemed unconventional or elusive within the realm of psychoanalytic psychotherapy. This volume focuses on themes such as the religious and spiritual aspects of therapy, the significance of aesthetic experiences, creativity, and mysticism. Each paper offers insights into these 'moments of relatedness' that occur during therapeutic encounters, supported by clinical examples that illustrate the complexities of human connection.

Contributors to Elusive Elements in Practice include notable figures in the field such as Patricia Allen, Bernardine Bishop, Faye Carey, and others who bring their unique perspectives to the discussion. The text emphasizes the importance of exploring ideas that are frequently sidelined in traditional psychotherapy, suggesting that neglecting these concepts could lead to the loss of valuable insights. By examining the 'elusive' elements of therapy, the authors aim to broaden the understanding of how these aspects can enrich the therapeutic process.

The introduction highlights a common sentiment among psychotherapists regarding the reluctance to engage with ideas that are considered eccentric or outside the norm. This volume challenges that notion, advocating for a more open-minded approach to therapy that embraces the richness of diverse experiences and perspectives. By doing so, Elusive Elements in Practice encourages readers to rethink what is worthy of attention in the therapeutic setting.