Joan Jutta Lachkar

Dr. Joan Jutta Lachkar is a widely and internationally recognized marriage and family therapist specializing in marital therapy. She is one of the pioneering professionals to introduce a psychoanalytic/psychodynamic perspective to this field, focusing on helping couples disengage from the negative projections that often bind them—an interaction she refers to as 'the dance.' Her extensive authorship includes influential books such as 'The Narcissistic/Borderline Couple,' 'Emotional Abuse of High-Functioning Women,' 'How to Talk to a Narcissist,' and 'How to Talk to a Borderline,' along with numerous publications addressing marital and political conflict. With a background as a classically trained ballet dancer, Dr. Lachkar uniquely caters to individuals in the performing arts, recognizing their specific emotional and psychological requirements. As a member and instructor at the New Center for Psychoanalysis, Dr. Lachkar is committed to fostering understanding in our evolving, diverse, and multicultural society. Her expertise extends as a psychohistorian to embrace cross-cultural dynamics, including same-sex couples, addressing universal human needs shared across cultures. She provides specialized support for individuals dealing with the complexities of narcissistic, borderline disorders, and other high-conflict issues. Dr. Lachkar remains dedicated to helping artists—dancers, musicians, actors, writers, and creatives—connect with their true selves and navigate the unique challenges they face.