Intersectionality and Relational Psychoanalysis: New Perspectives on Race, Gender, and Sexuality

Intersectionality and Relational Psychoanalysis: New Perspectives on Race, Gender, and Sexuality examines the links between race, gender, and sexuality through the dual perspectives of relational psychoanalysis and the theory of intersectionality.

This anthology discusses the ways in which clinicians and patients inadvertently reproduce experiences of privilege and marginalization in the consulting room. Focusing particularly on the experiences of immigrants, women of color, sex workers, and LGBTQ individuals, the contributing authors explore how similarities and differences between the patient's and analyst's gender, race, and sexual orientation can be acknowledged, challenged, and negotiated. Combining intersectional theory with relational psychoanalytic thought, the authors introduce a number of thought-provoking clinical vignettes to suggest how adopting an intersectional approach can help us navigate the space between pathology and difference in psychotherapy.

By bringing together these new psychoanalytically-informed perspectives on clinical work with minority and marginalized individuals, Intersectionality and Relational Psychoanalysis makes an important contribution to psychoanalysis, psychology, and social work.

Max Belkin, Ph.D., is a supervisor of psychotherapy and faculty at the William Alanson White Institute, associate editor of Contemporary Psychoanalysis, and adjunct faculty at the Department of Applied Psychology at NYU. He is a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice in New York City, specializing in treating individuals and couples.

Cleonie White, Ph.D., is fellow, faculty, and supervisor of psychotherapy at the William Alanson White Institute, adjunct clinical assistant professor at New York University's Postdoctoral Program in Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis, and faculty and supervisor at the Stephen Mitchell Center for Relational Studies. Dr. White maintains a private practice in NYC.