Why Psychoanalysis

“Why Psychoanalysis?” is a free monthly dinner and discussion group for those interested in learning more about psychoanalysis and psychoanalytic  training. Hosted by Sylvia Fogel and Justin Richardson, both analysts at Columbia, “Why Psychoanalysis?” illustrates what makes psychoanalysis different from other types of psychotherapy.  

Each meeting features a presentation of the transcripts of two actual psychoanalysis sessions conducted by a senior candidate or recent graduate of Columbia and paired with a relevant article or book chapter. After a buffet dinner, the group discusses the reading, listens to the presentation, and engages in the process of analyzing the analysis. Participants will sharpen their ability to listen for unconscious content in clinical material, learn what makes psychoanalysis unique among treatment modalities, and hear about the process of psychoanalytic training from the presenters.

When and Where

“Why Psychoanalysis?” meets on the second Wednesday evening of each month at the Upper West Side home of one of our faculty members. Please check our calendar of events for specific dates.

Participants may come to one or many seminars.

Who can come

“Why Psychoanalysis?” is suitable for students across a wide range of expertise.  We are open to medical students, psychology graduate students, psychiatry residents, and early career psychologists and psychiatrists.

To attend

Space is limited. To reserve a space for a "Why Psychoanalysis" seminar, please contact Dr. Justin Richardson at jr195@columbia.edu by the Friday before the seminar. You will receive an e-mail back letting you know whether space is available.