Image Induction in the Countertransference: A Revision of the Totalistic View

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Abstract
This article presents an integration of psychoanalytic and creative art therapy concepts in an attempt to expand the parameters of what psychoanalysts call “totalistic” counter-transference. The totalistic view of countertransference, regression and empathy, and projective identification are described and discussed, followed by a brief section on visual reception in which the author supports the belief of the necessity for making creative art materials available to both the patient and the analyst during the session. When art materials are used, identification and understanding the significance of images can take place. A clinical example (Miss A.) is presented; the patient is a 33 year old artist who began psychoanalytic psychotherapy two years previously, and currently is better able to understand some of the aspects of attachments to a boyfriend and to a clinging mother. Intellectual, disconnected experiences were evident from the patient's past experiences, and the author points out the need—and some procedures—for resolving this disconnectedness. A brief discussion of the case is presented, followed by a summary statement regarding a technique, with appropriate cautions given.

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