Book: Psychoanalysis Under Occupation – Lara Sheehi & Stephen Sheehi

By: Lucia Sarmiento Verano

What is this book about?

The relationship between psychoanalysis and psychotherapy and colonialism within the Palestinian context. Main topics explored:

• Alienation and Disalienation
• The complicity of therapeutic practices with colonial violence
• The pitfalls of “good intentions” and dialogue initiatives
• The role of resistance

What is radical/new/different about it?

Honesty, openness and explicitly naming the mechanisms of oppression in our profession, especially the ones that serve colonialism to this day. Linking analytical theory, practice and helpful concepts to the political reality and the social context of both, settlers and people living under a colonial system of apartheid.

Why you should read this book:

In my opinion, the greatest value of this book lies in that is provides:

• A clear link between social and political realities and the insidious, sometimes subtle psychic processes that enable and enact violence.
• A demonstration on how the mental health system is invested and actively participates in maintaining the status quo.
• Examples of helpful strategies for resistance and explanations on how they help.

This book contains clear links and explanations about the argument it makes, with a healthy amount of case studies and interventions from clinicians. I believe that, although it is about the Palestinian context specifically, it provides us with information and concepts that can help us make meaning of many other contexts in which we find colonial hierarchies.

I would highly recommend this book to any mental health practitioner, especially those working with people from marginalised backgrounds.

Limitations:

Not a limitation but this book, although well written and easy to read, can be heavy emotionally due to the themes it explores. Self-care is needed. If possible, reading it with a group of like-minded practitioners can be a good idea.