The “three-level-model for clinical observation” (3LM) – A supplement to modules in psychoanalytic training? Experiences from the Frankfurt Psychoanalytic Institute

A golden solution to the problem of psychoanalytic training has yet to be found. Most psychoanalytic institutes are continously critically reflecting on their psychoanalytic training structures and trying to improve them. In this article, we report on our experiences over the last 12 semesters in which we tried to supplement the well-established modules of psychoanalytic training at the Frankfurt Psychoanalytic Institute with seminars that used the Three-Level Model of Clinical Observation (3LM) to intensively discuss one candidate's training case each in five evening seminars. The 3LM was developed primarily in the Clinical Research Committee of the IPA and has since been presented in a variety of publications. This paper uses a concrete example to illustrate that the distinction between the three levels of clinical judgment has proven helpful for candidates to systematically reflect on clinical psychoanalytic processes, their possible transformations and to deal with the plurality of contemporary psychoanalytic theories. Therefore, selected feedback from candidates in one specific 3LM seminar is presented and used as a starting point for critical reflection.