Among the many elementary expositions of psychoanalysis, "The Talking Cure" is unique in focusing on the actual analytic experience. Lichtenberg's approach is humanistic, demonstrating empathic understanding of the fears and hopes of the person seeking help. He provides a "feel" for what happens during the analytic voyage of self-discovery.

Joseph D. Lichtenberg, M.D., is Editor-in-Chief of Psychoanaytic Inquiry, Director Emeritus of the Institute of Contemporary Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis, and past President of the International Council for Psychoanalytic Self Psychology. He has authored and edited numerous books and articles, including Craft and Spirit: A Guide to the Exploratory Psychotherapies (Analytic Press, 2005) and, with Frank Lachmann and James Fosshage, A Sprit of Inquiry: Communication in Psychoanalysis (Analytic Press, 2002).

A Historical Note: "The Talking Cure." Beginning the Search for Help. Reaching Out-Finding a Qualified Psychoanalyst. Reaching Out-Seeking the Analyst You Prefer. The Consultation. The Couch and Free Association. The Analytic "Contract." Decisions, Decisions. Starting Out. Getting Deep into the Middle of the Analysis. Endings and New Beginnings. Afterthoughts. Appendix: Psychoanalytic Organizations and Training.