67th Annual Conference

Thursday, February 25

Morning Workshops

10:00 A.M. - 12:30 P.M.

Workshop 12

Complexity Theory and Art: Contributions to Group Psychotherapy

Chair:                

Allan Gelber, Ph.D., CGP, Private Practice, Phoenix, Arizona

Complexity Theory as applied to Psychoanalysis can be explained through the Artistic expressions called Abstract Impressionism and Abstract Expressionism. These concepts can be used to explore the interaction between the therapist and his or her group using Self Psychology and Intersubjectivity Theory. We will discuss clinical examples and have a group experience.

didactic-experiential-sharing of work experiences-demonstration

Learning Objectives:

The attendee will be able to:

1. Describe theoretical concepts of Complexity Theory as applied to Psychoanalytic Group Psychotherapy.
2. Utilize theory to explain member-leader interaction.
3. Apply learning in clinical situations.
 

Course References:

Coburn, W. (2007). Psychoanalytic complexity: Pouring new wine directly into one's mouth. In P. Buirski & A. Kottler (Eds.), New Developments In Self Psychology Practice. Oxford: Roman & Littlefield.

Gleick, J. (1987). Chaos. New York: Penguin Books.

Hagman, C. (2000). The creative process. In A. Goldberg (Ed.), Progress in self psychology (Vol. 16, pp. 277-298). New Jersey: Analytic Press.