Between Us: A Psychotherapy Podcast Episode 56: Reclaiming the Relational
Aug 6, 2025
Roy Barsness, a Professor and author known for his work in psychodynamic supervision, shares insights from his new book. He discusses how viewing patients as muses can transform therapeutic supervision. The conversation explores the complexities of relational dynamics and the importance of emotional acknowledgment in therapy. Barsness emphasizes the therapist’s personal journey and the ethical considerations of disclosure, advocating for transparency and collaborative exploration in the therapeutic process.
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Emotional Impact of Therapy
- Roy Barsness felt emotional watching his patient praised publicly for therapy success.
- He experiences therapy relationally, being deeply intertwined with the patient's story and feelings.
Therapist Affect Is Key
- Therapist's emotional reactions to patients are key signals of patient impact.
- Patients need therapists who are authentically affected, not detached observers.
Use Your Emotional Reactions
- Pay attention to your feelings during sessions as they reveal messages from patients.
- Use your body's affective states as tools to understand and connect with the patient.
