Neuroscience and a Countertransference Impasse in a Neurotypical‐Neurodiverse Analytic Couples Therapy

Abstract

The author describes how his experiencing of the husband in a neurodiverse-neurotypical couples therapy as narcissistic, led to a countertransference impasse. Using clinical material, he describes how his understanding of neuroscience helped him to view his patient as suffering from high functioning Asperger syndrome, and how this understanding helped in the resolution of the impasse. It is hoped that this clinical situation will emphasize the value of having a greater integration between our psychoanalytic and neurological understandings.