ABSTRACT
From the first time I meet with a patient, I am searching for a window into their unconscious world of object and self-experience. Since my psychoanalytic perspective is based on the vital importance of phantasy, defence, and transference, my mind is constantly listening for any evidence of these essentials. In fact, I make a point of telling each patient very early in the first visit that I will need them to be on the lookout for any sign of deeper feelings about themselves, about me, or about our work together that they may usually ignore, downplay, or hide.
