Psychoanalysarium: Four Case Studies of Child Psychoanalysis

In this unique volume, four experienced psychoanalysts present in-depth case studies of child psychoanalysis, highlighting the praxis, development and relevance of psychoanalytic work with children.

Psychoanalysarium - a word that encompasses work, space, time, movement, dream, creativity, rêverie and fantasy - takes the reader on an intimate journey of psychoanalytic work through the book’s four case studies. The vast clinical material delves into themes such as transgenerational trauma, learning difficulties, sibling rivalry and aggressive tendencies, as well as the impact of separation anxiety and depression in childhood. The different analytical tools used with each child - from drawing to elements of play therapy - allow for a better understanding of, and connection with, children’s suffering. This book provides the reader with essential perspectives to expand their own clinical work with young people. Highlighting both the importance of the external setting and the analyst’s internal setting, the aesthetic dynamism of the analytical process reveals the complex working relationship with children and the benefits of the psychoanalytical approach.

This book is a vital contribution to the theoretical-clinical field of psychoanalysis with children and will be of interest to all psychoanalysts, psychotherapists and psychiatrists who work with the psychological suffering of children and their families.

Ana Belchior Melícias is a psychoanalyst based in Lisbon, Portugal. She is a full member of the Portuguese Psychoanalytical Society (PPS) and of the International Psychoanalytical Association (IPA). She is former Vice-President of PPS Board and President of the APOBB (Portuguese Association of Bick Infant Observation).

Isabel Quinta da Costa is a Psychoanalyst and full member of the Portuguese Psychoanalytical Society (PPS) and of the International Psychoanalytical Association (IPA). She is a full Member of the Portuguese Society of Psychoanalytic Group Psychodrama (SPPPG).

Elsa Couchinho is a Psychoanalyst and full member of the Portuguese Psychoanalytical Society (PPS) and of the International Psychoanalytical Association (IPA). She is also Supervisor of multidisciplinary teams in the context of Residential Homes for Children and youth at-risk.

Raquel Quelhas Lima is a Psychoanalyst and full member of the Portuguese Psychoanalytical Society (PPS) and of the International Psychoanalytical Association (IPA). She is also a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, focused on Primary Health Care and Child Psychiatry Liaison.