Patricia Coughlin, one of the stars of the ISTDP world, will be offering a three-year Core Training in Boston starting in January 2018.
Enrollment is limited but at this moment there are still several open spots. If you are interested, please contact her through her website, www.patriciacoughlin.com, or email her at drpcoughlin@gmail.com.
From her description of the training:
This is a three-year training program for licensed mental health professionals seeking expertise in ISTDP. It will meet in Boston for four 3-day training blocks per year 2018-2020. The 2018 dates are January 11-13; April 12-14; July 12-14 and October 11-13, with dates for the next two years to be announced.
Year 1: Lectures and videotaped illustrations of the theory and technique of ISTDP will be the focus of the first year of training.
Skill building exercises will be emphasized, so the trainee can learn how to create and maintain an intrapsychic focus, diagnose the channels of anxiety, recognize defenses, pressure for feelings and mobilize the conscious and unconscious therapeutic alliance in order to obtain a safe breakthrough into the unconscious.
During the first year, students will learn the dynamic theory of the unconscious, as well as being versed in attachment theory, emotion theory and the latest research on neurobiology. The ways in which technique flows from and is internally consistent with theory will be highlighted.
Finally, each participant must present at least one videotaped case of an initial session during year one.
Years 2 and 3: All participants are required to bring in videotaped sessions from their work with patients during each block of training. During year 2, initial sessions are preferred. In year 3, sessions from working-through phase and termination are encouraged.
Through out the process of training, readings will be assigned and required. During the supervision years, participants will be expected to write up each evaluation they will present for supervision (outline for this dynamic formulation will be supplied). Theoretical and technical issues will be discussed as they emerge. Research findings will be introduced and discussed throughout the training.
Special topics, like treating patients with psychosomatic disorders, the importance of precision and timing in the practice of ISTDP, and working with erotic transference will be included in the second and third year of training. Group participation will be encouraged. Those wishing to enter their own ISTDP therapy and /or attend conferences and workshops to expand their knowledge and expertise will be supported.
It must be noted that you are committing to the group, as well as yourself. If you are not willing or able to make a commitment to the three-year program, please do not enroll. All participants are expected to attend all sessions and to pay for those missed due to unforeseen circumstances.