This is an examination of the essential role of regression in the patient's recovery from mental illness. In light of this Nathan Field reassesses the role of the therapist tracing psychotherapy back to its earliest spiritual roots and comparing modern analytic methods with ancient practices of healing and exorcism. The author uses vivid examples from his psychotherapeutic practice to show how, with the apparent breakdown of the therapeutic method itself, patients can break through to a new level of functioning. The book goes on to consider how psychotherapy has been affected by fundamental...

This is an examination of the essential role of regression in the patient's recovery from mental illness. In light of this Nathan Field reassesses the role of the therapist tracing psychotherapy back to its earliest spiritual roots and comparing modern analytic methods with ancient practices of healing and exorcism. The author uses vivid examples from his psychotherapeutic practice to show how, with the apparent breakdown of the therapeutic method itself, patients can break through to a new level of functioning. The book goes on to consider how psychotherapy has been affected by fundamental...

This volume is a much-needed exploration of contemporary theories on psychotherapy and spirituality, moving away from the more traditional, non-spiritual aspects of psychoanalysis and psychotherapy. It consists of a dialogue between the opposing sides that mirrors the early communication regarding spirituality between Freud and Jung, and opens up doors for continuing collaboration between psychoanalysis as a pure science and the spiritual and religious dimensions within.
This inspiring collection of papers grew from the lectures held in 2002 at the London Centre of Psychotherapy. In the...