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Therapists in a Divided World
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Our nation is more divided now than at any time since the Civil War. Polarization enters the therapy room through emotional triggers, relationship distress, and worries for the future. How can we work with that? Many people demonize and hold contempt for the political “other,” even when the “other” is in their families. Therapists are not immune to this toxic political culture, and it can affect how we work with clients facing political stress and divisions in their lives. At a broader level, how can we apply a larger therapeutic perspective to societal problems instead of just taking a side in the contempt and outrage wars? Explore clinical tools and a larger vision for our role as citizen therapists. You’ll discover how to:
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Develop an understanding of the political "other” inside and outside of therapy
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Identify the connection between your current clinical work and societal polarization
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Practice skills in bridging gaps between individuals and groups who see themselves as politically polarized
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Connect with initiatives where you can use your knowledge and skills for the public good
William Doherty, PhD
William Doherty, PhD, is a professor and director of the Minnesota Couples on the Brink Project at the University of Minnesota. He is co-author of the book Helping Couples on the Brink of Divorce: Discernment Counseling for Troubled Relationships, with Steven Harris. He is cofounder of Better Angels, an initiative to depolarize America.
Speaker Disclosures:
Financial: Dr. William Doherty receives a speaking honorarium and recording royalties from Psychotherapy Networker and Сòòò½ÊÓƵ. He has no relevant financial relationships with ineligible organizations.
Non-financial: Dr. William Doherty is a member of the National Council on Family Relations, the International Council of the Institute on the Holocaust and Genocide in Jerusalem, and the American Psychological Association. He serves on several editorial boards, for a complete list contact Сòòò½ÊÓƵ.