Wilhelm Reich, M.D., was an early 20th century psychoanalyst who split off from his contemporaries to create a new analytic approach, providing the classical foundation of somatic psychotherapy. Reich's clinical theory and practice loosens the character and body armor using both touch and talk. The Reichian model asserts that the patient's character patterns and the obvious or covert resistance must be engaged. The patient's defensive structure and resistance to the natural flow of their life energy are in the way of a satisfying, healthy existence. This course exposes students to the essential elements of Reich's contributions to the field: Bioenergetics, developmental fixations and their long term effects, somatic and character interventions, and somatic regulation. Reichian theory has been strongly criticized from the very beginning by traditional analysts and many others later on in the 20th century.
This introductory level course is composed of three hours of audio presentations by Dr. Patricia Frisch and a critique of Reich's theories and practices. Originally recorded during live presentations, these high-quality recordings provide the listener with an opportunity to learn some of the expertise of the eloquent and skilled Dr. Frisch regarding Reich, somatics, patient resistance, and much more. In addition to providing relevant and fascinating history, Dr. Frisch works with audience volunteers as an example of how to perform the work. The last two parts of the course include a critique article with a list of resources and further readings.
"When you're talking truth with patients, that's really authentic. Then you're in contact, and that's worth everything."
- Dr. Patricia Frisch
Educational Objectives:
This course will teach psychotherapists to
Summarize Reich's approach to psychotherapy.
Integrate somatic theory in psychotherapy.
Discuss client resistance in psychotherapy using Reich's methods.
Summarize the critique of Reich's work and provide critical references.
Course Syllabus:
Introduction
Methods
Goals
Reich's Philosophy
Free energy
The role of sexuality
Expansion of mind and body
Somatic Psychotherapy
Potential for healing
Talk and touch approaches
Orgonomy
Integration of the Work
Breath
Breaking down armor (character and body)
Increasing capacity for feeling
Freedom from confining patterns (such as addiction)
Wilhelm Reich, M.D., was an early 20th century psychoanalyst who split off from his contemporaries to create a new analytic approach, providing the classical foundation of somatic psychotherapy. Reich's clinical theory and practice loosens the character and body armor using both touch and talk. The Reichian model asserts that the patient's character patterns and the obvious or covert resistance must be engaged. The patient's defensive structure and resistance to the natural flow of their life energy are in the way of a satisfying, healthy existence. This course exposes students to the essential elements of Reich's contributions to the field: Bioenergetics, developmental fixations and their long term effects, somatic and character interventions, and somatic regulation. Reichian theory has been strongly criticized from the very beginning by traditional analysts and many others later on in the 20th century.
