2nd and 4th Wednesday of every month from 11:00 am-12:30 pm
3000 Connecticut Ave, NW, Suite 327, Washington, DC 20008

This study group will focus upon the convergence of selected components of theory and practice that serve to enhance and intensify the therapeutic encounter. The central role of the integration of contemporary psychodynamic approaches, affective and social neural science and mind/body principles will be explored. A didactic and experiential format will be employed to facilitate the application of this model to clinical practice.

Members who attend this study group will be able to:

  1. Describe how the convergence of relational psychotherapy, Neural Science and Mind/Body approaches promote best practice in treatment.
  2. Describe the central concepts within object relations theory, selfpsychology and intersubjectivity that can be employed to enhance treatment in a convergence model.
  3. Discuss the central concepts of Neural Science that relate to healing, emotional regulation and psychotherapy.
  4. Explore the powerful and healing effects of Mind/Body approaches to psychological functioning and the psychobiological transformation that occurs when used within a model of integration.
  5. Explain a dynamic model of treatment which combines theory, practice, scientific findings and effective clinical application to promote psychological wellbeing and life enhancement.
  6. Explain the relationship among intersubjectivity, transference and counter transference, and the creation of a new healing narrative in psychotherapy.
  7. Discuss the effect of Mind/Body (M/B) approaches upon psychological functioning from both a psychogenic and neuro-biological prospective.
  8. Discuss the relationship among engaged equanimity, emotional balance, and neural integration.
  9. Apply M/B techniques for the reduction of anxiety and the treatment of depression within an integrated model of treatment.
  10. Identify the principal components that enhance the trance experience and create an altered state of consciousness.
  11. Discuss the fundamental principles employed within hypnotic inductions.
  12. Discuss ethical considerations and issues of competency when using M/B strategies in therapy.
  13. Discuss the effects of cortisol on the hippocampus,memory and learning.
  14. Discuss the neurological consequences of trauma.
  15. Describe the neurochemistry of PTSD and its effects upon psychological functioning.
  16. Define and discuss the Social Brain.
  17. Define and discuss Mirror Neurons.
  18. Define and discuss Mindfulness.
  19. Discuss the Neurological substrates of Transference and Countertransference.
  20. Discuss the Neurobiological substrates of Borderline personality disorders.
  21. Describe the effects of a cocreated healing narrative upon Neural Integration and bihemispheric communication.