The author integrates Zen Buddhist and psychoanalytic principles to introduce the notion of "spontaneously arising intuitive models." On the basis of the Zen teaching stories and patient dreams, this paper explores the meanings and psychic functions such intuitive models serve for patients. The notion of "the gap" constitutes a central organizing theme, which is elaborated in relation to Wilfred Bion's notion of "O." The discussion addresses issues relating to the uses and misuses of diagnosis and explores clinical implications. An extended case study exemplifies and supports the abstract concepts under discussion.