The interpretive process is potentially the therapist’s most powerful tool for stimulating personal growth through emotional integration. But, since an interpretation is aimed to destabilize some aspect of the patient’s neurotically organized internal world, it can readily be experienced as a threat and therefore warded off. Even when the patient accepts the interpretation, initially feeling recognized and understood, unconsciously, he may be quite threatened by the knowledge about himself that has long been disavowed. Understandable, the new view of himself may quickly vanish as he is unknowingly desperate to re-stabilize himself by retreating to a familiar, safer, albeit self-defeating position. This program focuses on learning to make follow-up interpretations as a vital tool for stemming the patient’s retreat and advancing the treatment.
Upon completion of the program participants should be able to:
ALAN P. SPIVAK, PH.D. is a Training/Supervising Analyst at the Los Angeles Institute and Society for Psychoanalytic Studies and is on the Faculty of the Wright Institute Los Angeles. Dr. Spivak is a pioneer in creating and presenting psychoanalytically oriented extension programs in Los Angeles. He has presented programs and papers nationally and internationally, and twice received the Sanville Award for Creative Writing in Psychoanalysis. Dr. Spivak also maintains a private practice in West Los Angeles.
Wright Institute Los Angeles is approved by the California Psychological Association, which is recognized by the California Board of Psychology (BOP) and the California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) to sponsor continuing education for Psychologists, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapists, and Licensed Clinical Social Workers. Wright Institute Los Angeles maintains responsibility for this program and its contents. Full attendance in addition to the completion of the appropriate evaluation form are required in order to receive CE credits. CPA OPD provider number WLA001.