This book is highly recommended not only for professionals but for those in clinical training, the latter of whom can be expected to gain insight into the complex and often unsuspected dynamics between therapist and patient and, in the process, learn how to best prevent their own transgression of the therapeutic relationship. Readers not well disposed to a psychoanalytic perspective should not be put off, for the contributors are well versed in contemporary neuroscience, draw on empirical studies, and acknowledge the role of culture in effecting interpersonal boundaries. Moreover, the dynamics of transference and countertransference are important to understand no matter what one's theoretical orientation may be. Indeed, this book suggests that it is possible to dampen the fires that threaten to consume both therapist and patient while yet stoking the flames that warm a chilled and fearful heart.

PsycCRITIQUES

Interpersonal Boundaries: Variations and Violations brings together distinguished analysts who explore contemporary clinical and theoretical problems of the fundamental notions of self and other. In clinically rich accounts and incisive commentary, Phyllis Tyson, Glen Gabbard, Ira Brenner, Salman Akhtar, Ilany Kogan, and Henri Parens, among others, shed new light on boundary formation, boundary violations, and the effect of trauma, culture, and narcissism on boundary experiences of both patient and analyst. This book blends the vivid immediacy of the clinical encounter and the thoughtful contributions of the scholar, making it ideal for beginners and experienced clinicians alike.

Dwarakanath G. Rao, M.D, Training and Supervising Analyst, Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute

This excellent book clarifies a pervasive yet enigmatic concept - boundaries - in a variety of domains: interpersonal, intrapsychic, cultural, and developmental. From whatever theoretical persuasion, readers will find this book literary, sophisticated, poetic, and most useful in their clinical work. Thoughtful and enjoyable, this book is a must read!

Andrea Celenza PhD, faculty, Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute; Assistant Clinical Professor, The Cambridge Hospital, Harvard Medical School

Interpersonal Boundaries is a wide-ranging, richly illustrated, thoughtful and thought-provoking set of essays on the function, development and maintenance of boundaries that will stand as a significant contribution to our understanding and therapeutic regulation of this important area of clinical concern.

Howard B. Levine, M.D., Chair, Joint Committee on Confidentiality, American Psychoanalytic Association