The Bridge project: radical psychotherapy for the twenty-first century

Abstract

The concept of equality has been central to radical thinking in psychotherapy. But it often becomes confused with sameness or some kind of final solution, a thing to be obtained. The model presented here is that of equalizing as an ongoing process at all levels in terms of gender, class, race, age, power and literally hundreds of other hierarchies. Most therapies are also about equalizing or balancing internal opposites in the psyche. This paradigm shift from hierarchical thinking to the rhythm model of equalizing processes is a way forward for therapy and social change in the twenty-first century. The Bridge Project (West London, UK), providing counselling for disadvantaged women, is an example of an organization using the equalizing paradigm in all areas of the work and at all levels. It offers us a vital sign of hope, in spite of the fact that the original aims of feminist and socialist community change have not been fully realized.

Free and open‐source therapy: Towards a revolution in the politics of psychotherapy

“…The more subtle critics claim that therapeutic approaches tend to emphasise the client's weaknesses over their strengths (Chaplin, 2006). Others are more explicit, arguing against the mainstream approach to 'mental illness'.…”

“…It has been further argued that the separation between experts and clients creates pathologisation of clients. The more subtle critics claim that therapeutic approaches tend to emphasise the client's weaknesses over their strengths (Chaplin, 2006). Others are more explicit, arguing against the mainstream approach to ‘mental illness’.…”

Editorial

“…Among the other topics covered over these nine years – and I am sorry to be unable to acknowledge every contribution – are narcissism as a politically inflected concept (Cowan‐Jenssen and Goodison, ); radical therapy initiatives specific to locality (e.g., Chaplin, ) or to theme (e.g., Heuer, ); politics and spirituality (e.g., Samuels, ; Collins, ); and fundamentalism (e.g., Haaken et al, ; Emery, ; Alschuler, ). One topic close to my own heart has been the politics of the regulation and accreditation of therapists (e.g., Postle, , 2010; Gladstone, ).This theme, together with ecological issues, has featured frequently in my own editorials, along with ecopsychology and climate change.…”