In presenting for discussion the case of an emotionally volatile and suicidal patient, I am interested in exploring the complex process of defining and pursuing one’s dreams/desires within an intersubjective self psychological therapeutic treatment. In particular, I want to explore sexual development and the desire to love another; and work ambitions and how they can be realized.
In the discussion Leslie and I want to explore the possibility of using Intersubjective Self Psychology to co-create a capacity for mutual regulation of intense emotional experiences while pursuing the realization of one’s dreams and desires. We are interested in how implicit and explicit convictions about oneself and the world may inhibit and/or sustain us; and how to invite an examination of them and their impact upon the quality of one’s life. Further, we want to examine the prospect of daring to rely upon another to explore with, trust in, and be supported in the building of a life for oneself in the realms of work and love.
The therapy culminates in the patient’s first love relationship. This love relationship and the productivity it inspired led to a critical breakthrough in the patient’s capacity to love and work, and raises several interesting questions for us that we invite you to explore with us: How do artistic experiences support an individual’s ability to engage in the world? Is it possible to create and maintain a love relationship via the internet? When is fantasy realized and what does that mean? Does romantic love need to be constituted or consummated in the flesh in order to be love?
Michael McGarry
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