Mutual Recognition Work is a relational psychoanalytic practice for recognizing co-created patterns, enactments, self-states, rupture, repair, and the therapeutic relationship as a site of change.
Step-by-step guide
- Notice how Mutual Recognition Work appears in the here-and-now relationship
- Name the relational pattern tentatively and include the therapist's participation where relevant
- Explore what each person may be pulled to feel, do, avoid, or expect
- Create thirdness: a shared position from which the dyad can observe the pattern
- Use the moment for recognition, repair, or a new relational experience
When to use
- When relational patterns repeat inside and outside therapy
- When rupture, shame, dependency, longing, or withdrawal appear in the therapeutic relationship
- In psychodynamic work with developmental and attachment patterns
Key phrases
I wonder whether Mutual Recognition Work is happening between us in some form right now.
Follow-up questions
How is it to hear me say that?
What part of you wants to move closer or farther away?
Can we look at what we are doing together?
Alternative phrasings
This may be our pattern, not only yours.
Let us see if we can find a third position together.
Warnings
- ⚠️ Do not use self-disclosure to meet the therapist's needs
- ⚠️ Do not blame the client for enactments co-created in the dyad
- ⚠️ Maintain boundaries while working with mutuality
Source: Mitchell, S. Aron, L. Benjamin, J. Bromberg, P. relational psychoanalytic tradition
Materials are informational and educational and summarize publicly available scientific sources. They are not medical or psychological advice, are not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment, and do not replace consultation with a qualified professional.