Michael Eigen

Michael Eigen, born in 1936, is an American psychologist and psychoanalyst who has authored numerous books and papers. He is recognized for his distinctive approach to treating patients considered untreatable by others, including those experiencing psychosis. Eigen has led a private seminar since the 1970s, focusing on the theories of Donald Winnicott, Wilfred Bion, Jacques Lacan, and his own contributions.

Eigen's therapeutic methodology is characterized by humility and curiosity, emphasizing a reciprocal learning process with his patients. He expresses a deep hope that therapy facilitates genuine connection and appreciation for the richness of psychic reality. A significant aspect of his work involves the integration of mysticism and spirituality with psychoanalytic practice. While not adhering to any specific school of thought, Eigen draws inspiration from various spiritual traditions and the writings of analysts like Wilfred Bion, who himself utilized mystical imagery to explain psychoanalytic concepts.

Michael Eigen's clinical practice is distinguished by his willingness to engage with patients who have been deemed beyond help by other mental health professionals, including individuals grappling with psychosis. He approaches these challenging cases with a profound sense of humility and an open curiosity, viewing the therapeutic relationship as a dynamic exchange where he, too, learns from his patients. Eigen articulates his therapeutic aims as fostering authentic connection, hoping that his work helps others recognize and value the depth and preciousness of their inner psychic lives, acknowledging the intricate and amazing nature of human beings.

A core element of Eigen's professional identity is his unique integration of mystical and spiritual perspectives within the framework of psychoanalysis. He openly states that he does not identify as a scholar or a strict adherent to any particular theoretical school. Instead, he draws eclectically from a range of spiritual traditions and the work of various psychoanalytic thinkers. He expresses a particular affinity for Wilfred Bion's writings, noting how Bion employed imagery and expressions from religious and mystical life to illuminate complex psychoanalytic processes. This fusion allows Eigen to explore the deeper, often less tangible, dimensions of the human psyche.

“I am hoping, praying that something real, useful, something that touches another soul happens, something that helps others feel how much there is to feel, how precious psychic reality is, how precious and complex and amazing we are.”

“not a scholar, systematic reader, or follower of any school.”

“Bion uses many images and expressions from religious and mystical life to portray psychoanalytic processes.”