ABSTRACT
This chapter illustrates the case of a woman who struggles to take on the role of mother. Monica was aware of her autistic parts caused by affective neglect in early childhood, but she relied on these for a sense of security in herself, making these parts difficult to dismantle.
It seemed impossible to carry out any form of therapeutic work due to the fluctuations in the countertransference: though there seemed to be a form of psychic retreat (in Steiner’s conceptualization), the patient continued to seek contact with the analyst.
The lengthy duration of the therapy allowed for continuous questions and reflections on the course of analysis to emerge. An affective and appreciative relationship – needed to work on modifying the Self – could only emerge through the patience of waiting for different answers, the hope of cracking the defensive armour with interest in helping this person; and the sharing of major losses.
