2010 - Spring Conference Synopsis

On May 14, 2010, Molyn Leszcz, MD, FRPC, FAGPA, CGP from the University of Toronto presented “Finding Meaning Through Relationships: Integrating The Interpersonal And Existential Models For Healing Emotional Pain.” The conference was “sold out” and RAGS was pleased that 50 clinicians had participated! Dr. Leszcz began with a didactic presentation on the evolution of psychotherapy and discussed a very important question which was, “Will the therapist just help recreate the patient’s problem or help with developing a new and improved relationship?” Dr. Leszcz stressed that the relationship in psychotherapy is most important in facilitating change. The four most important existential issues which arise in both individual and group psychotherapy are: death, isolation, freedom/responsibility, and meaning. Dr. Leszcz provided several clinical vignettes to illustrate each existential issue based on his clinical and research work. The morning demonstration group followed and several existential themes evolved such as illness of parents, limited time here and the isolation of the self. When group concluded, it was fascinating to observe and learn how the subjective experience of self disclosure may be very different from the objective experience. After lunch, Dr. Leszcz discussed the role of the group therapist linking technique to theory, utilizing countertransference as well as therapeutic metacommunications. The difference between objective and subjective countertransference was processed. Objective countertransference is what is usually addressed in supervision while subjective countertransference is addressed in personal therapy or in a consultation group. The afternoon demonstration group was powerful in highlighting existential issues as well as self disclosure and its impact in groups. Overall, the conference was stimulating, educational and motivating for all of us who are helping individuals in their quest for wellness.

2010 - Spring Conference Details

Rochester Area Group
Psychotherapy Society
presents:

Molyn Leszcz, MD, FRCPC

“Finding Meaning Through Relationships: Integrating the Interpersonal and Existential Models for Healing Emotional Pain”

Friday, May 14th, 2010

About the Presenter:

Molyn Leszcs, M.D., FRCP(C) is the Psychiatrist-in-Chief at Mount Sinai Hospital as wall as Professor and Head of the Group Psychotherapy Program in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Toronto. Dr. Leszcz is internationally renowned for his academic and clinical work focusing on broadening the application of psychotherapy within psychiatry. He is widely published in the group therapy literature and has been recognized for having made significant contributions to the field of psychiatry and group psychotherapy. Dr. Leszcz co-authored with Irvin Yalom the 5th Edition of The Theory and Practice of Group Psychotherapy (2005). His research has focused on group psychotherapy for individuals with cancer or a predisposition to cancer as well as group psychotherapy for patients with schizophrenia and patients with substance abuse.

Conference

Friday, May 14, 9:00-5:00
Registration and continental breakfast 8:30-9:00 AM

Psychotherapists are increasingly interested in combining different theoretical perspectives in order to strengthen and deepen their clinical work. Whether working in individual treatment or group psychotherapy, seemingly disparate theories can be integrated to create coherent, effective, and profoundly meaningful interventions. In this interactive conference for clinicians of all levels of experience, Dr. Leszcz will highlight how interpersonal theories of development (which view maladaptive behaviors and beliefs as rising from early life relationships) can be integrated with an examination of the ever-present existential anxieties about death, isolation, freedom, personal responsibility, and the search for meaning. The presentation will include demonstrations of specific and effective techniques for synthesizing these approaches in both individual and group psychotherapy. Attendees will also have an opportunity to experience direct application of the principles through participation in a here-and-now group exercise.

Participants of this conference will gain knowledge and in-depth understanding of:

The centrality of the interpersonal process in psychopathology and emotional distress.
The ways in which existential issues manifest in all psychotherapies.
The use of the interpersonal model as an integrative approach that links various theoretical models.
Contemporary developments in the field of group psychotherapy that synthesize multiple theoretical orientations including cognitive behavioral and pyschodynamic perspectives.
Methods to enhance the effectiveness of here-and-now interventions.
The role of the therapist’s use of self and therapeutic meta-communication.

Group Supervision and Consultation

Thursday, May 13th, 7:00-9:00 PM

Dr. Leszcz will lead a 90 minute supervision/consultation group on the evening prior to the conference. This group will provide the opportunity to explore the topics of interpersonal and existential psychotherapy in a more personal venue. Topics to be explored may include how to combine individual and group treatments, effectively orienting clients to group therapy, and transference/countertransference scenarios with challenging clients. Participants are encouraged to bring questions, case vignettes, and their own dilemmas about psychotherapy practice in general. In vivo group process will be used to help members develop fresh, creative interventions with their groups. This supervision group is appropriate for all levels of experience.

Location for both events:
American Association of University Women (AAUW)
494 East Avenue, Rochester, New York 14607
Free parking behind the building or across the street at the Third Presbyterian Church.

Sign language interpreting available. Please send requests by April 23rd to Susan Chapel at slcnps@rit.edu.

Questions?

Please contact Elizabeth Driscoll at: edriscoll.lcswr@gmail.com.

Brochure: Download

Posted in Spring Conference
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