On Saving Mockingbirds: Comments on Gerhardt´s “Clinical Anecdotes Working from My Home Office: Privilege and the Haunted House Next Door”

Saba M. · Psychoanalytic Dialogues (2023) · DOI: 10.1080/10481885.2023.2203661

Resumen

In ”On Saving Mockingbirds,” Marie Saba provides her insights on Gerhardt’s paper, which explores transformations and losses inherent to life and therapy, not limited to extraordinary circumstances like the pandemic. Saba draws a connection between the ominous, lifeless qualities described in Gerhardt’s article and the concept of Psychic Devastation, which Gerhardt had previously proposed. Both concepts share a horrifying quality where something is disconnected from time and space and stems feelings of isolation. Saba emphasizes Gerhardt’s call for a more comprehensive and inclusive approach to therapy that acknowledges social differences and integrates psychoanalytic predecessors into contemporary thinking, highlighting the need for non-binary approaches to complex issues. Saba considers Gerhardt’s case examples to provide valuable insights into the intricate relationship between loss, trauma, and mental health. © Copyright