Assessment of suitability for low-fee control psychoanalysis: some theoretical and technical considerations

In the assessment of suitability for low-fee control analysis, various factors may interfere with successful referral, evaluation, and disposition. Variables within the referring analyst, patient, candidate, and supervisor are examined in their interaction with the circumstances of the assessment enterprise. Issues of competence, self-esteem, and oedipal rivalry, as well as guilt feelings, concerns about rejection, and other conflicts may be mobilized and may prevent a successful outcome. Clinical data from three assessments are presented and discussed. The concept of an assessment process, analogous to the psychoanalytic process, is proposed. In this process, manifestations of the patient's intrapsychic life and indicators of potential transferences emerge in the context of the analysis of the patient's reactions to the assessment. Potential sources of interference with the assessment process are identified, and measures to avoid them are suggested.