Dr. Nicholas Samstag is a psychoanalyst and clinical psychologist living and working in New York City. He holds a Ph.D. in clinical psychology and a certificate in psychoanalysis from the William Alanson White Institute. In addition, he has completed advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples. Complementing his professional education is a strong background in classics and literature, which richly informs his work.

In this episode, Dr. Samstag dives deep into the nuanced world of psychoanalysis. He challenges oversimplifications of Freudian theory, advocating for a contemporary approach enriched by modern perspectives like queer theory. Dr. Samstag prioritizes active listening and exploration of both conscious and unconscious realms, steering clear of one-size-fits-all methods. His patient-centered ethos fosters autonomy, steering away from prescriptive advice in favor of self-discovery. Dr. Samstag reveals how psychoanalysis liberates from societal norms, encouraging profound dialogue beyond superficialities. He critiques rigid therapeutic techniques, championing a nuanced, analytical attitude that respects individual journeys. His insights on language as a gateway to unconscious truths make for a compelling exploration of the human psyche.

Resources Mentioned In This Episode: 

• Read the full show notes here
• Dr. Samstag’s Website
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