i found diana´s question quite boring. but i am definitely shocked about
answer´s such as:

Cynthia McDonald wrote:
> 
> Diana, unless you can get recommendations for a male psychoanalyst, from
> people verifying that he follows strict rules and does not indulge in the
> manipulation of the transference for purposes of his own, then get a femalie
> analyst.  Find a female analyst with outspoken adherance to ethics, morals and
> integrity - and don't fall into the male transference trap.  CMcDonald

or:

B J wrote:
> The standardized procedures and
> reliable and validated knowledge of psychotherapists is so limited, that
> for people and many problems you are likely much better off with a good
> well-adapted friend and/or a good self help guide (manual).  As a assoc.,
> member of the APA I couldn't say this if it were not true or reasonably
> arguable.  I can securely stand by this statement.

i concede diana - being a patient - to ask the question she did. i am
surprised there are persons around (who - on top of all - even claim
themselves to being professionals) giving this kind of gravely
unprofessional advices.

how about proposing to reflect the statement: "Im female myself and have
not had much luck with male psychotherapists" first?

martin engelberg
psychoanalyst
vienna, austria