I submitted a proposal to present at the Eastern Group Psychotherapy Society's Annual Conference in November. The topic is on working in the Here and Now, specifically with an approach developed by Betty Joseph, a prominent Kleinian psychoanalyst. Joseph's significant contribution, as I presently understand it, was to pay close attention to how patients unconsciously … Continue reading Applying Betty Joseph’s Here and Now to Group
Vitality and Belonging
When I think of Vitality, I think of the body. I remember feeling somewhat trapped throughout school, sitting for classes, forced to pay attention to the teacher and except when they were particularly dynamic and entertaining, feeling like my life-force was slowly draining away. I suspect it's a similar feeling for people who are … Continue reading Vitality and Belonging
What is Somatic Imagination?
Somatic Imagination is inspired by Jung's Active Imagination, Peter Levine's Somatic Experiencing, Melanie Klein's writings about Phantasy, the contemplative practice of Authentic Movement, the Feldenkrais Method and Eugene Gendlin's Focusing. It is a technique I use personally and often with clients, especially with my those in my Anger Management Group. In essence, the practice involves … Continue reading What is Somatic Imagination?
What is the “Here-and-Now?”
There's a story about a fish who went as a prophet among the fish folk, speaking of an almost mystical, all-pervasive substance called water. Of course she was scorned for her teachings, her piscine friends and family too busy with their swimming to entertain fantastical ideas. Talking about the Here-and-Now, I feel like a little … Continue reading What is the “Here-and-Now?”
The Brave You
Tracee Ellis Ros spoke at Glamour's 2017 Women of the Year Summit. She spoke about being a successful woman, owning her power and sexuality. She spoke about living for herself rather than trying to fulfill society and culture's expectations for her. It is an excellent, inspiring speech well worth the time to watch or read it. … Continue reading The Brave You
Just tell her the TRUTH!
In Disney's Aladdin, there is a scene I'm sure many of us can relate to. Aladdin has just flown his magic carpet to the Palace and is dressed as Prince Ali. He is hoping to convince Princess Jasmine to give him another chance after she was turned off by his ostentatious first impression. She is all … Continue reading Just tell her the TRUTH!
Santa Clause and the Narcissistic Defense
Have you seen the film, A Miracle on 34th Street? It hinges upon whether people will accept Kris Kringle's claim that he is in fact Santa Clause. What a strange preoccupation. Why does it matter so much whether or not people believe in the material existence of something that seems so clearly to be mythical? … Continue reading Santa Clause and the Narcissistic Defense
