DISCUSSION OF DR. JAMES HERZOG'S CASE: DOLPH AND GUS

Dr. Herzog's case illustrates how empathic processes assume a pivotal importance in evoking healing interactions. In this co-created treatment, Jim and Peter's interaction embody several processes that facilitate healing: rekindling of thwarted developmental needs, welcoming curative fantasies, corrective selfobject experiences, transitioning from self-protective defensiveness to relational protectiveness, heightened affective moments, and interpretative understanding. The case beautifully demonstrates how an empathic bond catalyzes affective regulatory capacities and strengthens one's sense of self.