

Personality and the Alchemy of Therapeutic Change with Nancy McWilliams, PhD
6 snips Jul 27, 2022
In this enlightening discussion, Nancy McWilliams, a renowned psychoanalytic psychotherapist and author, shares her insights from over 50 years in the field. She distinguishes between complex and shock trauma, emphasizing individualized therapeutic techniques. Reflecting on her journey from political science to psychology, she unveils the importance of understanding personality in therapy. McWilliams critiques evidence-based treatments, advocating for a human-centered approach where therapists learn alongside their patients, and highlights the profound impact of trauma on relationships.
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Individual Differences
- Nancy McWilliams prioritizes understanding individual differences in personality, not just disorders.
- Her therapeutic approach adapts to each person's unique story, including cultural background and experiences.
Complex Trauma Definition
- Complex trauma involves multiple, long-lasting sources that affect many life areas.
- This differs from single-incident trauma, which may have more localized effects.
Trauma Definition
- Reserve "trauma" for truly overwhelming experiences, not just stressful ones.
- Trauma shatters expectations and fragments one's emotional system.