Basic Concepts: Freud, Erikson, Piaget

Oct 1

Written By Gestalt Associates for Psychotherapy

This course explores impairment of functioning and other symptoms in relationship to their genesis during the socialization process, from a physical, energetic perspective. While necessary for mitigating primitive, instinctual, aggressive, and libidinal drives, the socialization process can leave deep scars on the psyche. We will work with memory recollection and in-the-moment re-experiencing of painful past episodes—where cognitive understanding is coupled with appropriate affect (abreaction). This working through process will be examined and discussed in detail, along with specific techniques for dealing with negative emotions and helping patients dispel the tension and confusion associated with repressed intra-psychic conflict.