Lacanian Psychoanalysis in Chicago, IL
Lacanian psychoanalysis focuses on addressing mental health concerns by examining the unconscious as it appears in speech, desire, and relationship dynamics. Instead of treating distress as a separate problem, this approach explores unresolved conflict, formative experiences, and how a person speaks about themselves and others. Christopher McCann, Ph.D., offers Lacanian psychoanalysis in Chicago, Illinois, to support clients on their paths to personal growth and well-being.
What Is Lacanian Psychoanalysis?
Lacanian psychoanalysis is based on the work of Jacques Lacan and centers on the concept that the unconscious is structured like a language. Through this lens, our desires, thoughts, and emotions lie beyond conscious awareness, organized in ways similar to how we convey meaning in everyday communication.
The unconscious can be heard in repeated phrases, contradictions, slips of the tongue, and omissions. Rather than providing advice or problem-solving tools, Lacanian psychoanalysis fosters better mental, emotional, and psychological health by examining what a person’s speech reveals about conflict, desire, loss, identity, and distress.
What Happens During a Psychoanalysis Session?
In Lacanian psychoanalysis, the individual speaks freely about whatever comes to mind. This may include current concerns, memories, dreams, relationship experiences, fears, frustrations, or emotional responses. Christopher McCann, Ph.D., listens closely to the person’s words, paying attention to repetition, inconsistency, hesitation, and emotionally charged expressions. Over the course of treatment, this process can help the person recognize how unconscious conflict affects daily life, relationships, and mental health.
What Lacanian Psychoanalysis Can Address
Lacanian psychoanalysis may help individuals who encounter recurring emotional or relational difficulties. That may include:
- Relationship conflict
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Feelings of guilt or shame
- Obsessive thoughts
- Intimacy problems
- Questions about identity and desire
This approach may also be useful for people who feel caught between opposing wishes or who find certain thoughts or feelings difficult to express directly.
Schedule a Consultation
Christopher McCann, Ph.D., provides Lacanian psychoanalysis in Chicago, IL. We also offer online telehealth sessions, removing accessibility barriers so you can receive the mental health care you deserve. Contact us to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment with Dr. McCann.