Institute Symposium – The Analysts Desire and the Problem of Narcissistic Resistances

 

Institute Sypmposium

Wednesday March 25th 1pm to 2pm CT 2026
Mitchell Wilson : The Analysts Desire and the Problem of Narcissistic Resistances
Abstract
The ways in which the analyst’s desire for particular experiences with patients is
inevitable and often leads to narcissistically based resistances are considered. Five
propositions are examined: (1) that the analyst cannot help but have desires and want

them recognized by the analysand; (2) that these desires frequently underwrite the
analyst’s theoretical beliefs and technical interventions; (3) that narcissistic desires and
their influence are ubiquitous among practicing analysts; (4) that the patient is often on
the lookout for the analyst’s various agendas; and (5) that the patient often hopes the
analyst will put his or her desire aside and listen so the patient can further his or her
own interests. Lacan’s concept of the “dual relation” is central to this discussion. The
neo-Kleinian position on narcissistic resistances is explored, as is the idea of the
“analytic third” as a potential solution to the problem they pose. An extended case
description illustrates the main points.

Educational Objectives:

 

The presenter has  no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies to report.