Fall I&C 2024 Learning Objectives

In 1957, the founders of the American Academy of Psychotherapists challenged classical psychoanalysis to embrace more humanistic approaches. Through spirited discourse, therapists’ focus gradually shifted from formulating interpretations to forging powerful therapeutic relationships. Nonetheless, the diverse cultural identities and healing techniques of our clients were often overlooked by thought leaders in the field.

We have come to understand that growth and wellness depend upon coming into wholeness – alignment with one’s values and traditions, one’s right mind and body. Listening is the first step to encouraging healing in our clients. Understanding the parameters of our clients’ physical, psychological, emotional and spiritual worlds helps provide a holistic view of our clients. Cultural competence is an essential tool in psychotherapy, assisting us in building strong and effective healing relationships.

Recent clinical research has exploded with divergent evidence-based treatment modalities which combine mind and body approaches to treat trauma. Therapists-in-training can now learn modern analytic techniques, DBT, meditation, psychedelic assisted therapy, and EMDR models. As practitioners, we must continue to grow our awareness of tools available to assist our clients in healing.At this Institute and Conference, therapeutic cultural wisdoms will be highlighted. We will examine time-honored analytic concepts of transference-countertransference relationships, unconscious awareness, and early attachment relationships. Moreover, healing practices from Native American, African, South American, Eastern, and other cultures will be featured throughout our program. We encourage you reflect upon your own healing experiences as well as your clients’ experiences to reexamine the therapeutic process.

Please contact Program Laura Fleming ljfycc@rit.edu  and Nancy Moser nancymo1@bellsouth.net with any questions.