Acting Insights and Techniques for Clinicians
Mark O’Connell
All therapists are performers. No matter what our theoretical orientations, clients are more influenced by us than our methods. Like the actor, the therapist’s technique is less about what we do and more about how we do it. When we approach therapy as a performing art, we can maximize empathy, creativity, and joy in our work, and inspire clients to do the same in their lives. This workshop will help you perfect the way in which you use your instrument—your self—in the role of therapist. You’ll discover how to:
- Practice staying present with clinical “scene partners,” even when you’re just listening
- Access a range of authentic versions of self, or “characters,” within you in each session, using your body and voice
- Engage your clients in exploring the range of “characters” and selves within them
- Expand empathy for your clients within safe boundaries through meditations and role-play
Mark O’Connell, LCSW-R, is a NYC-based psychotherapist and professional actor. He’s the author of the forthcoming book The Performing Art of Therapy: Acting Insights and Techniques for Clinicians, and writes for Psychology Today and The Huffington Post, among others.