“Mutual Transformation”

The psychoanalytic relationship between patient and analyst has undergone a dramatic evolution over the years. As the illusion
of anonymity and neutrality of the analyst has dropped away, a more human engagement and intimacy has developed between them.
This paper explores the gains for both participants from such a change, using a clinical case to anchor the discussion. Following
up on the work of Ferenczi and Searles, concepts of shared process and mutual transformation are examined from both theoretical
and clinical perspectives. A concern remains, however, that issues of hierarchy and self-interest for the analyst still interfere
with a more intimate connection and greater benefits for both participants.