This study group offers a rigorous, clinically oriented exploration of Lacan’s Seminar V, one of the foundational texts for understanding psychoanalytic practice today. Designed for clinicians who wish to deepen their theoretical grounding and enhance their therapeutic technique, the group focuses on applying Lacanian concepts to contemporary clinical work.

Course Description

Lacan’s Seminar V is a pivotal moment in the development of his teaching. Throughout the seminar, Lacan revisits Freud’s method with precision, approaching the material “as a sacred text” and demonstrating how analytic work hinges on listening to the patient’s discourse at the level of structure, signifier, and logic.

Across our meetings we will:

• Examine the logical structure of the castration complex and its impact on subjective positioning and sexual difference.

• Revisit the Oedipus complex through Lacan’s re-reading of Freud, understanding its function in psychic structuring.

• Work through the dialectic of desire and demand, particularly how these appear within the analytic relationship.

• Clarify the place of the analyst in the treatment, especially regarding the patient’s demand and the unfolding of transference.

• Strengthen your grasp of the psychoanalytic method, focusing on how this informs listening, intervention, and case formulation.

This seminar provides a rich conceptual foundation for clinicians who aim to advance in psychoanalytic training or integrate Lacanian theory more consciously into their practice.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this study group, participants will be able to:

• Demonstrate enhanced understanding of core psychoanalytic concepts:
  the psychoanalytic method, Oedipus, the castration complex, desire, demand, and the structure of neurosis.

• Apply Lacanian concepts to clinical material and case discussions.

• Develop a more nuanced approach to listening and intervention in therapy.

• Reflect on their role and positioning as analysts/therapists in the treatment process.

• Strengthen competencies required by the Psychology Board of Australia, particularly in theory-to-practice integration, case formulation, and reflective practice.

This CPD activity supports clinicians in maintaining, improving, and broadening their professional skills and theoretical knowledge relevant to psychoanalytic clinical practice.