The interminable patient: a case history.

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Psychiatry
• Psychoanalysis

Background:

• The author, a psychoanalyst with 30+ years of experience, typically practices short-term psychodynamic therapy (under 3 years, weekly sessions).
• This case represents an exception, involving a long-term psychodynamic treatment exceeding ten years.

Observation:

• A detailed case report is presented, focusing on a prolonged psychodynamic treatment.
• The case highlights the complexities and nuances of extended therapeutic relationships.

Findings:

• The author outlines her specific treatment approach for long-term psychodynamic therapy.
• Theoretical principles guiding prolonged psychodynamic encounters are discussed.

Implications:

• This work offers insights into the practice and theory of extended psychodynamic treatments.
• It contributes to understanding the management and efficacy of long-duration psychoanalytic therapy.