THE MELANIE KLEIN TRUST CONFERENCE

THE PSYCHOANALYTIC ATTITUDE – IMPLICATIONS FOR TECHNIQUE

Online via Zoom

Lively clinical papers will provide a basis for exploring both the fundamental and more complex aspects of the psychoanalytic attitude and the importance of technique in Kleinian thinking, which is itself deeply rooted in clinical work. These topics are – now more than ever – interesting and useful to think about, given the move to online work during the pandemic.

Following a welcome from conference chair Gigliola Fornari Spoto, John Steiner and Orna Hadary will explore ideas around the psychoanalytic attitude, as they emerge from her clinical material.

John Steiner and Michael Feldman will then discuss their views on the centrality of the psychoanalytic attitude in modern Kleinian analysis. Over the lunch break, online discussion groups will be available to allow you to continue thinking about these questions.

The second half of the day will focus on questions of technique. Lisa Baraitser will give a presentation of her clinical work, which she will discuss with Michael Feldman. He and John Steiner will then delve further into this, based on their long engagement with the challenges of Kleinian technique, before we close the formal conference with an opportunity for audience questions and general discussion amongst the panel.

From 6pm, after the formal papers and discussions are over, The Melanie Klein Trust will host a virtual drinks reception, for all who want to raise a glass (or cup!), catch up with colleagues and ponder the day’s ideas.

Clinical seminars are available to attendees on Friday evening and Sunday morning.