Analysis via Skype of Trauma Response in a Chinese Woman by Molly Rothenberg, PhD (Psychoanalytic Explorations)

In this clinical paper, I briefly describe the analysis of a Chinese woman who suffered repeated traumas from early childhood into adulthood. ZhoLi, as I will call her, suffered post-traumatic memory disorder in reaction to some of her traumatic experiences.  She also developed masochistic symptoms.  During our work together, it became clear that her responses to trauma were structured defensively: that is, rather than simply repeating unintegrated experiences, as some theories of trauma suppose, she created a complex set of symptoms that not only kept her tethered to her traumas but also contributed to her resilience.  My purpose is to demonstrate the utility of a psychoanalytic understanding and treatment of trauma, with particular attention to psychic defenses in response to traumatic experience, including their role in traumatic repetition, symptom formation, and resilience.  Other unusual features of the analysis played a role in the treatment: the analysand lives in China, and the analysis was conducted almost entirely via SKYPE technology; the analysand’s first language is Mandarin but she spoke English, so she frequently associated to Chinese words and phrases; and the analysand had participated in the Cultural Revolution as a young person. 

Learning Objectives:

• Participants will learn about a psychoanalytic approach to understanding defensive reactions to trauma that can be applied even in severe cases.
• Participants will gain an appreciation for the utility as well as the limits of using internet communication technologies for psychotherapy.

This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) through the joint providership of American Psychoanalytic Association and NOBPC. The American Psychoanalytic Association is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians.  The American Psychoanalytic Association designates this Live Activity for a maximum of 2 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity. IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE INFORMATION FOR ALL LEARNERS: None of the planners and presenters of this CME program have any relevant financial relationships to disclose.

Psychologists and Social Workers may also receive continuing education credit for this activity if their accredited associations or boards recognize CME credits.

Admission is Free.       
Fee for 2 CME credits: $15 for NOBPC members;  $25 non-members