Zimmerman, D. (2025). Tragic Person Evolved: Transforming Tragedy Into Hope Through New, Alternative Treatments. Psychoanalysis, Self and Context, Vol. 20 (published December 2025)

ABSTRACT

The paper, “Tragic Person Evolved: Transforming Tragedy Into Hope

Through New, Alternative Treatments” was presented at the 45th

IAPSP International Conference in Rome in October of 2024. The

paper explores the integration of relational psychoanalysis and alter-

native treatments, including ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, for

individuals with OCD, ADHD, and ASD. Two case studies illustrate

how fostering a deeply empathetic therapeutic relationship, combined

with the potential neuroplasticity-enhancing effects of psychedelics,

facilitates profound transformative shifts. The authors discuss the

therapeutic significance of self-disclosure and mirroring, alongside

the ethical considerations inherent in utilizing mind-altering sub-

stances. The findings highlight the effectiveness of integrating self-

psychology principles with alternative approaches to address complex

trauma and promote self-actualization in neurodivergent individuals.

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