Experiential methods enliven therapy through dynamic experiences that promote dynamic realizations. We will explore methods that make therapy a visual art, recognizing the visual realizations are neurologically encoded more robustly than words, hence more easily accessed when needed. We will explore the use of gestures, objects, and even sounds to empower change. We will learn the latest advances in therapist sculpting. Lecture, demonstration, and small group exercises will be used
Revolutionary research in neuroscience and functional genomics documents show how experiences of novelty, environmental enrichment, and exercise (both mental and physical) can optimize gene expression, brain plasticity, healing and life extension in dreams, meditation and spiritual rituals. In this workshop, we will experience the four-stage creative cycle in ourselves and in others.
The study of psychological trauma has been accompanied by an explosion of knowledge about how experience shapes the central nervous system and the formation of the self. We have learned that most experience is automatically processed on a subcortical level, i.e. by “unconscious” interpretations that take place outside of awareness. Insight and understanding have only a limited influence on the operation of theses subcortical processes. When addressing the problems of traumatized people who, in a myriad of ways, continue to react to current experience as a replay of the past, there is a need for therapeutic methods that do not depend exclusively on understanding and cognition. This workshop surveys current research on how people’s brains, minds and bodies respond to traumatic experiences, and will specifically address the use of affect modulation techniques, EMDR, yoga, theater, and neuro feedback in overcoming various aspects of the destabilization and disintegration caused by trauma.
The Generational Self approach emphasizes how the state of consciousness in which an experiential challenge is held determines whether a problem or solution develops. The model identifies three types of mind – Somatic, Cognitive, and Field,and how each mind can be operating at a Primitive, Ego, or Generative level. We will see how a problem degrades a person’s consciousness level so that change is impossible, and how that low-level state can be improved to a Generative level, so that the problematic experience either spontaneously changes, or is more easily engaged. Numerous practical techniques and clinical examples will be offered.
This workshop offers participants the wisdom gained from our new scientific understanding of love, and from 25 years of research and clinical practice in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFT). The first part of the workshop will present a clear picture of romantic love as the natural arena for personal health, resilience and growth. The second part of the workshop outlines and guides participants into four conversations to enhance your relationship: Recognizing Demon Dialogues, Finding Raw Spots, the pivotal Hold Me Tight conversation, and Forgiving Injuries. Better communication, more effective problem solving, more empathetic caring and improved sexual relationships are just some of the improvements associated with a more secure bond.
Dr. Polster will show how a deep relational duet can be created and, joined with therapeutic experiments and awareness expansion, provide a landscape of high focus, surprise, directionalism and radiance in the search for a sense of personal wholeness.Creation of fluidity, dependable identity, microcosmic lessons, and fresh storytelling will serve as major vehicles.
Happiness can be usefully dissolved into the Pleasant Life (Positive Emotions), the Engaged Life, and the Meaningful Life.The mission of Positive Psychology is to understand and build these three lives. Dr. Seligman will describe interventions that raise happiness, so defined, and will detail their effects on depression.
Crisis, transition and transformation are three key dynamics we need to address during times of deep upheaval. It is said that things are always changing, but not always progressing. During times of dynamic change, many challenges will present themselves such as meeting the fear of the unknown and unfamiliar, dealing with loss, and a general sense of vulnerability.These can plunge us into unhelpful survival strategies: attack, escape or rigidity (fight, flight, freeze) resulting in regression, inertia and conflict. In order progress though change, it is important to cultivate qualities such as flexibility and stability, balance, connection and the ability to let go.
This workshop will show how to detect and modify acceptance, mindfulness and values processes moment to moment in therapy sessions, based primarily on methods drawn from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). The primary method used will be tape of real clinical sessions, with start and stop discussions.
This workshop will immerse us in an exploration of how the human brain, mind, and relationships form an interconnected“triangle of well-being” involving the flow of energy and information. The mind regulates this flow; our relationships share this flow; and the brain serves as a mechanism mediating this flow. Knowing how to work with empathic relationships, a coherent mind, and an integrated brain builds a perspective on how to approach psychotherapy from an “interpersonal neurobiology” perspective. Nine domains of integration will be highlighted for application in psychotherapy.