“But who do you say that I am?” Affectus Fidei and Bonds of Trust in Psychoanalytic Practice

Abstract

Affective bonds that span our lives rest on a foundation of credibility and truth. This study proposes an introductory description of theological and psychoanalytic elements that build a conceptual model resting on the fundamental truths of Christian faith. Theological elements are used to form a floor whereon psychotherapeutic work can rest and build the path that runs from the awareness of symptoms and asking for help to the attainment of enduring and authentic happiness. Affectus fidei (the affection of faith) emerges as the central theological concept that ties together the existential-relational elements of human life as observed in the here-and-now of therapeutic work, toward the development of confidence and self-understanding that leads toward growth and health. The here-and-now of therapeutic attainments depends on the symbolic space that opens between past and future, the real and the imaginary, the desired and the unhoped for. Without a foundation of credibility and truth, the symbolic activity of therapy that aims at a more mature look at one's life cannot emerge. When the affective space of therapy is recognized as credible, the symbolic dimension emerges and the work of therapy flourishes. Only then do the members of the therapeutic couple surrender confidently to the persuasive affective bond that rests on the credibility of the good.