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Delivered by: Julie Dearden & Rosemary Langford-Bellaby
Offered as two 2-day (Sat - Sun) workshops
Delivered face-to-face in Nottingham City Centre
Fees:
- Part 1 (2 days) £200 (members) £220 (non-members)
- Part 2 (2 days) £200 (members) £220 (non-members)
- Both days for £380 (members) £400 (non-members) total
Please note: Full payment is required at time of booking.
Workshop dates:
Workshop | Dates |
Part 1 | Saturday 20 - Sunday 21 July 2024 9.30am - 5.00pm both days |
Part 2 | Saturday 14 - Sunday 15 September 2024 9.30am - 5.00pm both days |
The Divided Brain (Part 1 & 2)
About this training:
We have all grown up with the knowledge that our brains are divided into two hemispheres – the left and the right. How often though might we question why? And more importantly are the commonly held answers to our question sufficient and even incorrect?
In this training we will look at the latest research into the divided brain. After exploring the theoretical understanding of the role of each of the hemispheres up to about 2012, we will move to the main contributor to the field - the work of Iain McGilchrist. In common with many theorist in this field McGilchrist argues that the division between the hemispheres is essential and that the left and right hemispheres have differing insights, values and priorities. That each has a differing “take” on the world. We will examine why this division is essential to our survival as a species but has created some worrying issues that affect us all. Most striking of these differences is that the right hemisphere sees itself as connected from the world but the left sees itself as aloof from it. McGilchrist argues that an imbalance favouring left-hemisphere dominance in modern society particularly in the western world, may lead to a reduction in our ability to appreciate nuance and interconnectedness, potentially influencing culture and societal values.
How is the course delivered?
This experiential training is offered as two parts which may be attended together or as standalone workshops.
Workshop 1: The Divided Brain – An exploration of the work of Iain McGilchrist
Developing an understanding of how the two hemispheres within the brain function, can be of great benefit to your practice as a contemporary therapist.
In workshop one we will draw on the latest works of Iain McGilchrist’s "The Master and His Emissary." and “The Matter with Things”. These books offer profound understanding of the brain's tendency to rely on either the right or left hemisphere known as lateralization. We will explore how this has important implications for human experience and behaviour such as; how we view our bodies, limit our view points, get fixated on detail, and ignore serious issues in the field e.g. global warming. We will argue that incorporating these insights into therapy and psychological practices can lead to a more comprehensive and effective approach to treatment. We will share evidence from a broad range of sources including art, music, philosophy and physics.
From this day you can expect to:
- Develop an understanding of the different functions of the hemispheres.
- Consider what this means for us as humans.
- Explore the functions of the hemispheres using experiential and creative ways.
- Explore the neuroscience in a practical, hands on way.
- Apply an understanding of the hemispheres to aspects related to therapy such as touch, and spirituality.
Workshop 2: The Divided Brain – The Implications for Psychotherapy
In workshop two we will explore the wider implications of an imbalance between the two hemispheres. For example, there has been increasing domination of the left hemisphere, which has implications for us working relationally and broader concerns such as changes in education, social care, physiological and psychological care. Drawing all of this knowledge and experiencing together we will then focus on the clinical implications and how, by acknowledging the distinct yet complementary roles of the hemispheres, therapists can gain a more nuanced understanding of their clients' experiences and tailor interventions accordingly. We will consider how we can use this knowledge to develop practical experiential interventions that target different cognitive processes, utilizing strategies that cater to each hemisphere's strengths. Ultimately, we are seeking to increase integration within ourselves and others, as always through relationship, but drawing upon these concepts and experiences to develop.
In this workshop you can expect to:
- Develop and explore the broader implications of this understanding.
- Develop your understanding of the hemispheres to consider aspects such as language, and imagination.
- Consider how the tendency to lateralise may be shaping society currently.
- Contemplate your own ways of integrating this understanding.
- Apply these concepts to your practice in creative and practical ways.
About the trainers:
Julie Dearden
From a background in the NHS, Julie trained as an Integrative Psychotherapist she has expertise in working with early relational trauma, attachment disorders and psychopathology. Julie is a UKCP accredited Psychotherapist and Supervisor who has been practising for over 22 years. She is an experienced trainer in Integrative Psychotherapy.
Rosemary Langford-Bellaby has extensive training and experience as a psychotherapist, supervisor trainer and consultant. Rosemary has trained in both Gestalt Psychotherapy and Integrative Psychotherapy and has completed additional elements of training in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Transactional Analysis, Behavioural Therapy and Client-Centred Counselling. She is accredited with the UKCP and runs a private practice working with individuals, couples, and groups.
