Supportive Psychoanalytic Couple Psychotherapy

Abstract

This paper aims to deepen understanding of the application of supportive psychoanalytic psychotherapy in work with couples and to anchor it in psychoanalytic theory and practice. It is based on the experience of collaboration between experienced couple therapists and supervisors, who face the frustration intrinsic to supportive psychoanalytic couple psychotherapy (SPCP). The article defines the principles of supportive psychoanalytic psychotherapy and discusses its application to couple psychotherapy, highlighting the therapist's role. A case example employing supportive couple psychotherapy is discussed for the purpose of clarifying and illustrating the essence of this therapeutic approach.