Postanalytic encounters

Outside the psychoanalytic situation, there may be numerous adventitious contacts between analyst and analysand. These interactions can be of major importance in determining the result of an analysis, either by stabilizing and reinforcing or by undoing previous analytic work. This paper focuses upon postanalytic encounters and their influence on the resolution of residual transference and the continuing working through and integrative processes. Important issues include (a) the time after termination, (b) the degree of socialization and (c) the extent of transference and/or real relationship. Clinical examples demonstrate that ex-patients can experience postanalytic encounters as pleasurable and helpful or unpleasurable and unsettling. After termination a more human openness is advocated, rather than aloofness, as catalyst for the continued future growth and development of the ex-patient. Further consideration to the important therapeutic potential of these encounters is urged.