Psyche

A brief reflection on how we've been coping with 7 days without power at our house. Thoughts on managing anxiety, expressing gratitude, and a "possibility" approach to life.

A reading of my latest blog exploring Cal Newport's book Slow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout. I also reflect on how Byung-Chul Han is an exemplar of slow productivity.

A meditation on Wilhelm Reich's first encounter with Freud and how it confirms Maya Angelou's wonderful quote: "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."

In this episode, I speak with Dr. Stephen Bacon about his research findings that therapeutic techniques have no inherent power and that the field of psychotherapy lacks the privileged knowledge it believes it possesses. We also explore the distinction between fundamental and constructed reality and delve into what it means for psychotherapy to be a ritual, highlighting the importance of charisma in the therapist's work. Be sure to check out his consultation groups for therapists looking to learn how to apply the constructionist approach.

A meaningful conversation with Kent Dobson delving into the rich and complex subject of religion. Kent addresses several questions that arose for me after listening to his latest podcast episodes.

I speak to Paul about his bookPotential Not Pathology: Helping Your Clients Transform Using Ericksonian Psychotherapy.

“Don't take my devils away, because my angels may flee too.”― Rainer Maria Rilke In this episode, I delve into the context of this quote and discuss why I ultimately disagree with it. I also explain why I keep a "Devil" tarot card in my office and highlight the significance of integrating the shadow in psychological development.

An engaging conversation with my friend, Phuc Luu, covering topics ranging from transcendence and theosis to rethinking the Christian tradition in a universalist and inclusive manner.

Here are a few more religious ramblings- this time more critical. I draw from Nick Cave, Bring Me The Horizon, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, John Dourley and James Hollis.

A few ramblings on Rudyard's Kipling's poem "If" and the 2024 movie "IF" (spoiler alert).