6 Tuesdays | Sept. 2 – Oct 7

Austrian psychoanalyst Otto Rank’s significant contributions to modern psychotherapy have been undervalued. Drawing on her comprehensive research, Sara Ekenstierna offers an overview of some of the key tenets of Rank’s psychology, with focus on his relational, integrative, and process oriented approach, and aims to show how he is particularly relevant to 21st century therapeutic psychology. In the vein of Rank, Sara explores the interface of psychoanalysis, modern physics, existential philosophy, and creativity. Over 6 sessions the mind-body-matter relation and the client-therapist dyad are examined in connection to Rank’s work and what she calls the “therapeutic third,” which is a realm between client and therapist, that extends beyond the intersubjective model to the ontological and transpersonal.

It will be helpful if program registrants have a basic grasp of psychodynamic theory, though learners of all levels and other orientations are welcome. The study group focuses predominantly on Rank’s transitional and post Freudian work, and is best suited for those interested in cutting edge approaches to psychoanalytic and psychodynamic theory and practice, existential and transpersonal psychology, and with an appreciation for philosophy.

Program Structure:
Study group participants will read articles and meet weekly for 6 online sessions to discuss the concepts in them. The assigned articles will be provided to group members. Sara will provide commentary and elaboration. The study group will combine works by Rank, including articles and chapters from selected books, and contemporary writers including Menaker, Rudnytsky, May, Ogden, and others.

CE credit