Psychodynamic Couples Therapy
with Ann Dart, LCSW

Analytic therapists used to the rhythms of individual work are often overwhelmed by the thought of doing couples therapy.  Having two complicated psyches in the room to work with at the same time can be daunting.  Yet, when viewed through the lens of psychoanalytic object relations and attachment theory, the interactions of distressed couples become much more understandable.  Instead of being played out with us in the transference, we see problematic dynamics from childhood played out between the couple right before us.  These are often unconscious patterns which neither partner grasps.  Promoting awareness and understanding of these patterns ultimately makes them more accessible to change and healing.

In this four-week introductory course we will learn to apply object relations and attachment theory to couples work.  We will mainly use the books, Object Relations Couple Therapy, 2004, by David and Jill Scharff, and Love and War in Intimate Relationships: Connection, Disconnection, and Mutual Regulation in Couple Therapy, 2011 by Marion Solomon and Stan Tatkin as texts. Participants are encouraged to bring vignettes from their own practices.  Class size will be limited to facilitate discussion.

 Educational Objectives:

1. Learn about object relations theory
2. Identify projective identification in a couple
3. Identify attachment patterns in couples

Where:           Oregon Psychoanalytic Center
When:            April 6, April 13, April 20, April 27
Time:              7-8:30pm
CME Credits: 6

Registration Fee: $200.00
Professional Level Member Rate: $180.00
Students/Residents: Call for rate and to register.

REGISTER HERE