Relational Systems, Boundaries, Emotional Space, and Empathy
Presented by Daniel A. Bochner, Ph.D.

Web Conference Description

Relational Systems Theory (RST), developed by Dr. Dan Bochner, offers a new approach for seamlessly integrating the intrapsychic and the interpersonal at a systems level. In this 90 minute presentation, Dr. Bochner will demonstrate how the RST model informs therapists on the therapist/client relationship during the therapeutic encounter. Of most importance, RST will be shown to guide the therapist in new ways as countertransference reactions are utilized in developing empathy where the most common interpersonal responses can be expected to reinforce a client’s self-defeating patterns. The model will be presented as a guide for metabolizing countertransference reactions more directly by facilitating the therapist’s understanding of a client’s interpersonal behavior. The model will also be shown to enhance the therapist’s ability to offer new and more constructive alternatives to clients for approaching their relationships with their own spouses, children, friends,and acquaintances. The use of RST is only limited by a therapist’s inability, or lack of willingness, to engage authentically.

This Web Conference is designed to help clinicians:

1) Learn the basic system of the intrapsychic and interpersonal as described in Dr. Bochner’s Relational Systems Theory;
2) Focus on intrapsychic and interpersonal boundaries that will help differentiate useful from iatrogenic (reactions originating from the therapist) countertransference reactions;
3) Understand the difference between therapeutic activity and therapeutic interference in reference to the concept of “Emotional Space;”
4) Define empathic responses as countertransferential in general;
5) Utilize a clear method for developing accurate empathy from difficult countertransference reactions.

If you have any questions about this Web Conference, or would like more information, please contact us here.