Supervision With Marian Tolpin: The Total Transference

The following case illustrates the conceptual framework Marian Tolpin used with me in a 2½-year supervision—namely, the distinct transferences of pathology and remaining health. Taken together, Marian Tolpin called these the total transference. I came to see that these two dimensions of the transference were often intertwined. It was important to be cognizant when I was responding to one dimension or both in the interpretation. This case shows how Tolpin's conceptual framework not only can help to heal psychopathology, but also can foster the development of psychological capacities and resources. In the course of treatment, the analysand developed a newfound sense of self-esteem, a capacity to tolerate a wide range of affects, and to understand himself and others with a greater capacity to appreciate complexity. All of this contributed to his goal of achieving a far more fulfilling relationship than he had imagined possible.