Across the river of desire: the frailty of working with others

The encounter of two individuals may trigger several dynamics: it may either engender discovery of distances, mutual alienation and struggle for survival, or bring opportunities of integration, invest- ment of complementarity and creativity (Morin, 2007). This study is conducted by two professionals from different backgrounds on both geographical/cultural (Italy and Egypt) and professional levels (organizations and medicine), yet they both work in the education field, run groups and focus on transformation. Moving from the analysis of differences in their epistemological models, professional practice and theories of settings, this paper attempts to unveil the fundamental (unconscious) endeavors that lies beneath rivalry and competition when two colleagues attempt to ‘work together’. In particular, this paper moves from two training experiences that both professionals have shared, both in the role of convener and attendee. Such experiences are presented and discussed, also in the tradition of La- can’s analysis of signifiers (1968). But unlike conventional psychodynamic work, such analysis aims at designing and planning a new intervention of professional ‘togetherness’. In fact, the presenters also introduce and comment the first phases of their journey toward conducting an organization consultancy course in Egypt. A distinct understanding of the underlying institutional dynamics are at basis of the design and implementation of such OC program (Anzieu, 1984; Kaes 2009). Polarities, competitiveness, multicultural questions are all benchmarks of this new program: the ultimate goal being to comprehend, elaborate, and find ways toward constructive collaboration.