Description:

This workshop presents young Erickson’s transformative voyage of discovery – ostensibly to improve his physical health and muscular strength after poliomyelitis. This experience significantly influenced his outlook on life, paving the way for his future therapeutic strategies. This seventy-four-day canoe journey contains, in my view, the fundamentals of “the hero’s journey” as described by Joseph Campbell. Three dimensions are presented for discussion: 1) Young Erickson’s pathways toward heightened self-knowledge through mastery over ordeals; 2) His indisputable triumph over physical limitations due to sequelae from polio; and, 3) the roots of adult Erickson’s clinical approaches, as evidenced by strategies such as observation, distraction, utilization, task assignments, and action metaphors. Participants are invited to reflect upon their own life transitions, and share with others.

Educational Objectives:

1. Describe human developmental stages: adolescence, youth, young adulthood, maturity, and old age as transitions toward higher levels of consciousness.
2. Discuss the roots of some of Milton Erickson’s approaches as a clinician, such as observation, distraction, utilization, and action metaphors.

*Sessions may be edited for content and to preserve confidentiality*