Institute: Nothing to See Here: Maintaining Relationships By Denying Our Needs

AGPS Institute

Nothing to See Here:  Maintaining Relationships By Denying Our Needs

Facilitated by: 

Patricia A. Florence, MA, LCSW, CGP

Have you ever heard a client say “I have something to talk about, but only if someone else doesn’t have anything more important”? Or have you been the one to say it? This is a 1 ½ Day Institute designed for therapists of all experience levels to develop a deeper understanding of how past experiences with caregivers affect how they, and their clients, manage current needs. In the process, we will explore the adaptation of denying our emotional and physical needs to keep others close. 

About the Presenter: 

Patricia is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in private practice in Austin, TX, where she works with individuals, couples, and groups. She has been an active member of AGPS, twice serving on the board, leading Institutes and small-groups, and acting as an observer at the Annual Conference, as well as acting as Conference Chair. In her spare time, she enjoys the company of her husband (Fred), two miniature long-haired dachshunds (Guinness & Lexie), her friends, and making lots of sourdough delicacies. 

What Are Group Institutes?

Institutes are a highly experiential form of small group teaching led by experienced instructors. They are intended to develop therapy skills relevant to leading groups. They often offer a chance to explore a particular theme in greater depth or to experience a different theoretical approach. Institutes are primarily designed for mental health professionals who have clinical psychotherapy experience. While institutes are not therapy, they are process-oriented and it is expected that they may stir feelings spanning the whole range of human experience. Members agree to attend the entire group, to participate actively, and to respect the confidentiality of the other members. The secure environment of these small groups allows for rich cognitive and deep emotional learning about group process and oneself, not to mention a chance for personal and professional renewal.

Objectives:

 Attendees will be able to:

1. Participants will be able to identify one way proximity in relationship is understood through attachment theory.

2. Participants will be able to describe three ways in which transference and countertransference impact emotional closeness or distance to group members.

3. Participants will be able to name two ways the group can become a secure attachment figure for members.

4. Participants will be able to identify at least two Modern Analytic techniques that help facilitate relationships in group treatment.

Schedule:

Friday:

3:00-6:15 (15-minute break at 4:30)

Saturday:

9:00-5:00 (15-minute break at 10:30)

Lunch 12:15-1:45 

Afternoon break at 3:15.

End process at 4:30 to discuss the experience and to complete evaluations.

Location given at registration. The location is wheelchair accessible with difficulty.

8.75 CEUs available for social workers, LPCs, LMFTs, and psychologists.