Series: Connections and Conversation
Connections and Conversation created and hosted by Shir Shanun, Psy.D. is a psychoanalytic open space for cultivating creativity and freedom of thought and feeling in a free Zoom meeting. We invite you to engage with our presenters and community as they share their interests and passions in conversation on current topics in psychoanalysis. Please see our calendar of events. The meeting often begins with a 45 minute presentation followed by 45 minutes of conversation. When an event is recorded you can access the recording at the vault.
This series is open to all.
In case of questions please contact: [email protected]
A Winnicottian Approach to Field Theory: Creative Expansions
May 16, 2026 @ 9:00 am - 10:30 am PDT
Many analysts see Bionian field theory as a valuable model presenting a fresh approach to clinical process; clinicians are in the process of integrating this model, both theoretically and clinically, into their work with patients. I suggest that we can also look to Winnicott to provide an additional point of entry into analytic field theory. In his uniquely nuanced attention to the importance to an individual of creative vitality in living, Winnicott has much to offer. Additionally, I emphasize that creative vitality is erotically derived, rooted, embedded; a creative mind is located within a libidinal connection to the erotic body. The clinical challenge, rather than solely to contain is for analyst and patient to slowly engage in an enlivening interchange that begins to open up a level of libidinal mobility likely missing in early development.
Presenter
Dianne Elise, Ph.D.
Dianne Elise, Ph.D., is a Personal and Supervising Analyst, Psychoanalytic Institute of Northern California, a Training Analyst, International Psychoanalytic Association, and has served on the Editorial Boards of the Journal of the American Psychoanalytic Association and Studies in Gender and Sexuality. Her over 40 psychoanalytic publications include papers and book chapters on a wide range of subjects. Elise’s 2019 book with Routledge, Creativity and the Erotic Dimensions of the Analytic Field — featured in a New Books in Psychoanalysis podcast, August, 2024 — expands her work in innovative ways. She has introduced the concept of a Winnicottian approach to field theory, emphasizing the role of libidinal vitality in clinical treatment. She practices in Oakland, California.
Series: Connections and Conversation
Connections and Conversation created and hosted by Shir Shanun, Psy.D. is a psychoanalytic open space for cultivating creativity and freedom of thought and feeling in a free Zoom meeting. We invite you to engage with our presenters and community as they share their interests and passions in conversation on current topics in psychoanalysis. Please see our calendar of events. The meeting often begins with a 45 minute presentation followed by 45 minutes of conversation. When an event is recorded you can access the recording at the vault.
This series is open to all.
In case of questions please contact: [email protected]
A Winnicottian Approach to Field Theory: Creative Expansions
May 16, 2026 @ 9:00 am - 10:30 am PDT
Many analysts see Bionian field theory as a valuable model presenting a fresh approach to clinical process; clinicians are in the process of integrating this model, both theoretically and clinically, into their work with patients. I suggest that we can also look to Winnicott to provide an additional point of entry into analytic field theory. In his uniquely nuanced attention to the importance to an individual of creative vitality in living, Winnicott has much to offer. Additionally, I emphasize that creative vitality is erotically derived, rooted, embedded; a creative mind is located within a libidinal connection to the erotic body. The clinical challenge, rather than solely to contain is for analyst and patient to slowly engage in an enlivening interchange that begins to open up a level of libidinal mobility likely missing in early development.
Presenter
Dianne Elise, Ph.D.
Dianne Elise, Ph.D., is a Personal and Supervising Analyst, Psychoanalytic Institute of Northern California, a Training Analyst, International Psychoanalytic Association, and has served on the Editorial Boards of the Journal of the American Psychoanalytic Association and Studies in Gender and Sexuality. Her over 40 psychoanalytic publications include papers and book chapters on a wide range of subjects. Elise’s 2019 book with Routledge, Creativity and the Erotic Dimensions of the Analytic Field — featured in a New Books in Psychoanalysis podcast, August, 2024 — expands her work in innovative ways. She has introduced the concept of a Winnicottian approach to field theory, emphasizing the role of libidinal vitality in clinical treatment. She practices in Oakland, California.
Presentation Archive
Watch recordings and download papers and slides from past Connections and Conversations and Decentralized Learning Experiences.
