ABSTRACT
The first hurdle is the couch. As I let the new analysand into the office, I observe his or her progress. If the person heads for the couch, I give a look and gesture of encouragement. On the other hand, if the person goes to the chair used during the consultation, I don't interrupt. Perhaps there are some aspects of the arrangements the analysand wants to discuss. If not, I gesture to the couch and say we can begin by his or her lying on the couch and saying what comes to mind. Obviously, if the person is manifestly uncomfortable, I will ask about it. I have
found that most analysands require nothing more than simple encouragement and some recognition of their uneasiness. Occasionally someone will feel really "spooked" about using the couch. When this happens, I know the couch has a meaning that will eventually have to be analyzed in depth. To help in the immediate situation, I work with the person to define the problem as much as we each can. What is it that's so disturbing? I indicate the person may remain seated in the chair while gaining familiarity with the basic working principle. But, as soon as possible, when it feels comfortable, he or she should try to use the couch. Rarely has this taken very long.
