The pioneering work of Marguerite Séchehaye into the psychotherapy of psychosis: A critical review

Abstract

This paper reviews the psychotherapeutic techniques developed by Marguerite Séchehaye in the treatment of psychotic patients through the method of symbolic realisation. In view of the pioneering nature of these techniques, and particularly against the background of Freud's pessimism in this respect, the means by which Séchehaye overcame technical difficulties relating to transference-countertransference are also considered (with special attention to the celebrated case history of Renée). The extent of Séchehaye's pioneering work is also considered with reference to her subsequent publications.