ABSTRACT
Interpretation is a fundamental component of psychoanalytic interventions with couples, yet where and how it is used varies widely. This chapter highlights the unique challenges faced in the conjoint assessment of a couple and the use of our related concept of a mutative couple interpretation and the technique of reflective interpretation. In the assessment phase, interpretation also helps to convey to the couple an ability to make sense of the unconscious dimensions of their presenting difficulties. This highlights that effective interpretation only occurs when a state of container—contained experience is achieved and that, moreover, interpretation and a deepening of the transference are intimately linked. The connection with the couple and their subsequent engagement in the psychoanalytic couple work very much hinged on their experience of us being able to understand their individual experience and to think about this with them from the perspective of their ruptured coupledom.
