There have been to date no empirical studies of the impact on a patient of the death of the analyst during the period of treatment. As a first step, we have collected information both from

analysands who themselves experienced such a loss, and from subsequent therapists whose observations were complementary and more objective. The help of colleagues has been indispensable in the questionnaire construction, data analysis and the sharing of clinical experience. We are aware that the nature of our undertaking does not permit in-depth observations or conclusions.