Presented by Steven H. Cooper, PhD with discussion by Joyce Slochower, PhD

Through a series of clinical vignettes, the author explores the ethical undergirding of play in analytic work with adult patients. He defines play as a form of idiomatic, verbal responsiveness that emerges in the context of the analytic intersubjectivity, one that can illuminate elements of fixed transference-countertransference engagement. He outlines an ethic of play that considers whether these forms of responsiveness deepen and enliven the patient’s understanding of unconscious fantasy, conflict, and internalized object relations. Play poses challenges and potential risk for the analytic couple since in play, rules are often changing in the dialogue between the conscious and unconscious minds of the analytic couple.

This conference is intended to fulfill licensure renewal requirements for continuing education in ethics. However, registrants should check with their licensing board if uncertain.