Cultivating Psychotherapist Artistry: A Model Existential-Humanistic Training Program

Abstract

With deep gratitude, we thank our beloved mentor and friend James F. T. Bugental for his vision and verve in creating "The Art of the Psychotherapist" (Arts) courses. He stoutheartedly offered this innovative five-course series on an existential-humanistic approach to psychotherapy for more than a decade to younger colleagues, who now carry the torch of this illuminating perspective. Jim, we salute you for being a wise and spirited pioneer who opened new territories in psychotherapy and in the holistic education of psychotherapists. Your legacy ripples through us to our students and through them to future generations who value the art of life-changing psychotherapy.

Cultural competency and humanistic psychology.

“…Humanistic psychologists have begun to address the effect of personal needs and motivations upon their therapeutic work (Kettler & Hazier, 2001). Others have spoken to the need for humanistic psychologists to be aware of countertransference issues (Pierson & Sharp, 2001). These suggestions regarding self-examination are consistent with the need for the humanistic psychologist to look inside to discover deeply rooted cultural values affecting the interaction with the client.…”

Constructivist and Humanistic Therapies

“…They may also foster group interaction and support and an intense focus on subjective experience by such means as the inclusion of residential components. In addition, they may incorporate artistic, spiritual, and physical activities designed to promote all aspects of the personal growth of the therapist (Pierson & Sharp, 2001). The length of training is generally at least three to four years.…”