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Not long ago people believed that psychoanalysis was dead.
Today, thanks to some favorable press, not to mention the Sopranos, most
folks know that we are still around. But people in need often do not believe
that psychoanalysis is relevant to their lives. Analysis is thought of as
elitist, self-indulgent or outmoded. The public is not informed about
who we really are today, and what we have been doing.
Few are aware that
analysts have been visiting Fire Houses since 9/11. Or that groups of
analysts are are working with the homeless, with those afflicted with HIV,
or with stressed out business executives and military personnel.
Contemporary psychoanalytic ideas and methods are as vibrant and effective
as our practitioners. People should know about our work. And we must expand
our reach.
As President of Division 39 (2003-04), Jaine Darwin, challenged every segment of
the Division to create new ways of bringing psychoanalysis into the public
domain. The Outreach Committee was asked to collate information about
the myriad ways our members utilize psychoanalytic ideas and methods.
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We have learned about hundreds of analysts who are engaged in pro bono work,
educational outreach, consultation efforts, specialized clinical
services including work with underserved children and adolescents, and other
applications that move psychoanalysis beyond the consulting room. The
database including information on many of these activities will be shared
with the Public Information Committee to inform the public of the scope of
our involvement. This information is also available to stimulate new efforts
to meet the Presidential initiative. It is our intention help individuals
and groups mobilize to start new projects, develop funding, and expand their
effectiveness. We also hope to offer liaison between practitioners with
similar interests throughout the country. Please take a moment to contribute
to our database by filling out the Contribution
Form on this website. If it is more convenient for you to reply in
person, please tell us when you will be available for a telephone interview
by calling 201-837-6566.
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