First Principles: A Comprehensive Guide to Psychoanalytic Practice

By Prof. Alessandra Lemma

Introduction

Alessandra Lemma’s First Principles delves into the core of psychoanalytic practice, emphasizing the importance of applied ethics. This book serves as a guide for psychoanalytic practitioners, focusing on the development of an ethical self-discipline that aids in critical reflection and decision-making in the face of ethical dilemmas.

The Framework of Ethics in Psychoanalysis

Lemma integrates key concepts from applied ethics and bioethics into a psychoanalytic framework, reinterpreting them for practical use. The book explores how psychoanalytic practitioners can understand and apply principles such as beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, justice, and veracity in their daily practice.

Clinical Applications and Case Studies

Through the use of clinical examples, First Principles outlines a working model for therapists to reflect on their practice. This model helps practitioners navigate complex ethical situations and make informed decisions that align with their professional code of ethics.

Teaching Ethics in Psychoanalytic Training

A dedicated chapter is devoted to teaching ethics within psychoanalytic psychotherapy trainings. Lemma provides a detailed curriculum for incorporating ethical principles into the training of future psychoanalytic practitioners, ensuring that they are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate ethical challenges in their careers.

Conclusion

First Principles is an essential resource for psychoanalytic practitioners, as well as clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, psychotherapists, counselors, and psychoanalysts working within the psychoanalytic tradition. By providing a comprehensive framework for understanding and applying ethical principles in practice, this book aims to enhance the quality of care provided to patients and promote a culture of ethical reflection among mental health professionals.

Publication Details

First Principles is published by Oxford University Press and was released on August 1, 2023. The book is available in English and consists of 320 pages. The ISBN-10 is 0192858963, and the ISBN-13 is 978-0192858962.