Routledge Making Spaces: Putting Psychoanalytic Thinking to Work

This book argues for the value and application of psychoanalytic thinking beyond, as well as within, the consulting room. Inspired by a Scottish psychoanalytic tradition that owes much to W.R.D. Fairbairn and J.D. Sutherland, the Scottish Institute of Human Relations has provided a valuable reference point for the work described in the book. It illustrates how the coming together of human beings into a shared space fosters opportunities to create loving, collaborative relationships in which to work and from which to grow. The book's first section explores how psychoanalytic thinking developed in Scotland, while section two focuses on work with children, families and couples, showing how psychoanalytic perspectives can be used to strengthen capacities for loving relationships. The chapters in section three show how psychoanalysis can be applied in such varied settings as psycho-social research, education, institutional development and organisational consultancy. The fourth section pursues this theme further, considering the potential of psychoanalytic concepts to enhance work in religious ministry, in medical and psychiatric services, and in understanding the processes of ageing. Review " Making Spaces is a marvellous book, extending the reach of psychoanalytic thought and practice in many original and surprising ways, while reaffirming the liveliness of a distinctively Scottish tradition of psychoanalytic work. Alongside papers of great clinical and observational sensitivity and depth are chapters that search out new and unfamiliar inter-disciplinary territories. Insightful, engaged, and rich with the wisdom of clinical and social experience, this book should be read by everyone wanting to develop meaningful forms of psychoanalytic practice for the twenty-first century."--Andrew Cooper, Professor of Social Work "The expert contributors to Making Spaces have provided a highly valuable, thought-provoking, and interdisciplinary exploration of the human relations perspective in psychodynamic theory and practice. This historically informed and culturally sensitive volume opens up new spaces for thinking from a psychodynamic relational perspective, whether about practice inside the clinic or the wider world of organisational and community life. As well as appealing to academics and students, this book will be of great interest to mental health professionals, particularly counsellors and psychotherapists, and to others involved in the caring professions, such as clergy and social workers."--Dr Gavin Miller, Medical Humanities Research Centre About the Author Liz Bondi