When the Analyst is Chronically Ill or Dying

Abstract

This is a study of the effects on the patient, the analyst, and the analytic process of chronic life-threatening illness in the analyst. The vicissitudes of the aggressive drive and its derivatives within the patient are studied in most detail. The analyst's use of denial and isolation, as well as his narcissistic withdrawal in such circumstances, is also illustrated. In addition, some of the practical technical issues which arise are discussed.