Human experience and human action center in and derive from human subjectivity. Our preoccupation with objectivity results displaces identity from inner living to external. Life-changing psychotherapy requires centered awareness and self-direction. Three therapeutic elements are prime: Full presence, major commitment, and exploring client's self-and-world constructs.
Topical Panel 11 from the Evolution of Psychotherapy 1990 - Transference / Countertransference
Featuring Alexander Lowen, MD; James Masterson, MD; Rollo May, PhD; and Erving Polster, PhD.
Moderated by Ruth McClendon, MSW.
Dialogue 09 from the Evolution of Psychotherapy - Growth Facilitation, featuring Rollo May, PhD, and Erving Polster, PhD.
Moderated by Betty Alice Erickson-Elliott.
The concept of the Self has come to imply a consistent cluster of characteristics which are often given fixed and universal attributes, such as the narcissistic self, topdog and underdog, false and true self, etc. This paper will expand the concept to include the versatility and unique aliveness of the individual's many selves and show how these selves help people make sense of their lives. Special attention will be given to broadening the concepts of introjections, transference, and gestalt formation, showing how these may be instrumental in harmonizing alienated selves.
Topical Panel 08 from the Evolution of Psychotherapy 1990 - Resistance
Featuring James FT Bugental, PhD; William Glasser, MD; Donald Meichenbaum, PhD; and Erving Polster, PhD.
Moderated by Ruth McClendon, MSW.
This workshop will offer concepts and demonstrations which will help therapists best pay attention to the transition points between now and next. A continuing sense of "sequential rightness" may sweep patients into open mindedness and to an increased range of otherwise inhibited therapeutic options.