Psychoanalysis is a unique opportunity to engage in a special kind of conversation that is intimate and progressively open about one’s life history, hopes, fears, dreams and dilemmas. One gains personal insights and new possibilities through this shared exploration in a private and protected space.
The goals go beyond the relief of distressing symptoms to include resolution of internal conflicts, release from repetitive and frustrating life patterns, deep self-knowledge, and sustained personal change. Individuals undertaking psychoanalysis commit substantial time, emotional energy, and expense to gain deeper understanding of how they perceive and relate to themselves and others, how they approach and adapt to life’s challenges, and how they have come to have these unique characteristics.
Psychoanalysis is often the most effective and enduring treatment for certain kinds of personal difficulties.
Some common concerns for which psychoanalysis is often the best treatment:
- trouble making life decisions or taking action in important areas
- lack of fulfillment or failure to advance in your studies, work or other endeavors
- trouble establishing a satisfying intimate relationship
- repetitive patterns of conflict or disappointment in work, family, or social relationships
- an ongoing sense of low self-worth
- a persistent feeling of detachment or disconnection from friends or activities
- creative “blocks” or other inability finishing important projects or pursuits
- physical complaints that might be manifestations of underlying emotional conflict
Some concerns for which psychoanalysis may be the best treatment:
- long-standing symptoms of depression and/or anxiety
- diminished capacity for pleasure in life activities
- trouble with excessive anger
- sexual inhibitions, lack of sexual satisfaction, or other sexual problems
Some concerns for which psychoanalysis is generally not a good treatment option although each situation is unique and none of these are absolute exclusions:
- active addiction issues
- hearing voices or holding beliefs that are not consistent with reality
- criminal behaviors
- violence towards others or towards oneself
Please also see Frequently Asked Questions for more information.
OBTAINING TREATMENT
If you feel psychoanalysis may be right for you, consider one of these options:
Private arrangements –
Refer to the pages under “Find a Psychoanalyst/Therapist” to locate a psychoanalyst close to you for an initial consultation. You may wish to meet with two or more psychoanalysts to find the best personal “fit.” Fees vary, and many psychoanalysts are willing to adjust their fees if necessary.
Reduced fee psychoanalysis –
If you qualify for analytic treatment, you may be treated by an experienced therapist who is training to become a psychoanalyst. A request for a referral may help you to locate an analyst in training in Boston; many of our members are also affiliated with other analytic institutes in the area.
If you are interested in obtaining psychoanalytic treatment either privately or through an analytic institute, please contact the PINE office by telephone or e-mail as listed below:
Alice Rapkin, Administrative Director
PINE PSYCHOANALYTIC CENTER
phone/fax: 781-449-8365
email: office@pineanalysis.org