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The word orthodox, from the Greek ortho (“right,” “correct”) and doxa (“thought,” “teaching,” “glorification”), is typically used to refer to the correct worship or the correct theological and doctrinal observance of religion, or other forms of intellectual activity shared by organizations or movements, as determined by some overseeing body. In Judaism, and for the purposes of this article, reform stresses ethical teachings and frequently simplifies or even rejects traditional beliefs and practices to meet the conditions of contemporary life.
In this article, I hope to show how some of my ideas about technique have changed from an orthodox Freudian psychoanalytic approach to what I call patient-centered psychoanalytic work. With the many new theories and the reviewing of older theories of technique, today's analyst can tailor (without being called eclectic) the treatment to fit the patient. For instance, much of Kohut's work can apply to the narcissistic individual. Contemporary life demands that we reevaluate the issue of frequency of sessions and telephone sessions. I am sure that this is not a new idea, but much of the literature, particularly the conservative literature, appears to support a strict attitude.
During my years as a candidate, there were many taboos and expectations that seemed not to be in the patient's best interest. Along the road, which I continue to walk, I have learned to be flexible, to use my common sense, and to speak in my own voice more and more. I appreciate the classical training that has been my foundation, but I have learned to question what I refer to as “received wisdom.” I find myself impressed by both the classicists like Waelder, Fenichel, et al. and by many of the relationalists