Book Study: A Relational Psychoanalytic Approach to Couples Therapy by Phil Ringstrom

Instructor
Dr. Michelle Harwell, PsyD

7 Fridays
January 17 - February 28, 2025
9-10:30am

Location
Online

9 CEs offered for qualifying professionals.

Join us for an engaging exploration, facilitated by Dr. Michelle Harwell, of Philip Ringstrom's groundbreaking work, "A Relational Psychoanalytic Approach to Couples Psychotherapy." He presents an innovative model of couples treatment that integrates relational psychoanalysis with broader psychoanalytic traditions and social sciences. Ringstrom's approach fills a crucial gap in contemporary psychoanalysis by offering a comprehensive relational framework for couples therapy, built upon three fundamental themes: the actualization of self within intimate relationships, the dynamics of mutual recognition versus mutual negation, and the concept that relationships possess their own distinct consciousness.

What sets this work apart is Ringstrom's masterful integration of theory and practice through six non-linear, non-hierarchical steps, each richly illustrated with clinical examples. Rather than viewing couples therapy as merely conflict resolution, Ringstrom presents it as an opportunity for fuller self-development and creativity through robust, mutually recognizing engagement. His approach acknowledges how partners' disparate subjectivities, shaped by their developmental histories, gender, and cultural factors, create their shared reality. As noted by leading clinicians in the field, this text offers not only a clear roadmap for both novice and experienced therapists but also provides profound insights into the transformative potential of intimate relationships, making it an invaluable resource for understanding the complexities of human connection and therapeutic change.

*This book study will act as a primer for our in-person Full-Day Conference with Dr. Phil Ringstrom on 5/10/25

Instructor Credentials

Michelle Harwell, PsyD, LMFT #50732 is an expert trainer, respected speaker, and licensed therapist in trauma, development, and attachment.  She is noted for her specialization in areas of development, attachment, trauma, and neuroscience, and her ability to communicate complex topics with clarity and humor. Michelle completed her doctorate in Psychoanalysis from The Institute of Contemporary Psychoanalysis in Los Angeles. She received her BA in English Literature from University of Oklahoma, MA in Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary, and MS in Marriage and Family Therapy from the Fuller Graduate School of Psychology.

For more information or questions contact us at thealamoprograms@gmail.com

Refund policy: Participants seeking a refund can email us at thealamoprograms@gmail.com at least 15  days before the first meeting. Refunds requested 15 days or earlier will receive 100% refund. 14-7 days prior, participants are eligible for a 50% refund. No refund will be provided 6 days prior or less.

Course certificates awarded at the end of the course upon receipt of  completed form.

Course meets the  qualifications for 6 hours of continuing education credit for LMFTs, LCSWs, LPCCs, and/or LEPs as required by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. 

The Alamo Psychotherapy and Training is a dba of Michelle Harwell Therapy, nad is approved by the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (Provider #)  to sponsor continuing education for LMFTs, LCSWs, and LPCCs. Michelle Harwell Therapy maintains responsibility for this course and its content.

No known conflict of interest or commercial support for Michelle Harwell Therapy, The Alamo Psychotherapy and Training, or the instructor.

Contact Us

To request accommodations for special needs, obtain the grievance policy, report a grievance, request a refund, request more information about the course, or if you have general questions, please email us at thealamoprograms@gmail.com