ABSTRACT
The field of psychoanalytic couple interpretation is complex but also potentially creative. By way of introduction the nature of interpretation is described. This includes how interpretations come together in the mind of the analyst and what specifically is meant by a “couple interpretation”. It is suggested that all interpretations gradually build into couple interpretations which are important because they can bring about a different state of mind in the couple – their own capacity for a “couple state of mind”. The triangular nature of couple therapy is seen as also potentially creative in helping the couple to develop a couple state of mind. Other kinds of interpretations are outlined, for example interpreting the couple’s transference relationships, making use of the therapist’s countertransference, interpreting the couple’s projective system or the symbolic material the couple bring. Examples are given to illustrate all these areas. In conclusion, some of the things that can go wrong on interpreting to a couple are discussed.
