The Science of Psychotherapy

December 2019

Hard to believe that we are at the change of season again – how fast time flies and yet so much seems to be happening. It is a persistent paradox. Sometimes we seem to be rushing and standing still at the same time. I am particularly pleased to share articles this month that express both reflective pause and progressive development.

We follow up the book excerpt from Dr Oliver Morgan in November with an exclusive addendum. In a very personal look back on his own life, we are treated to a fascinating display of the life that has enabled Dr Morgan’s knowledge. “The Boy Who Lived”: Reflections of An Attachment-based Therapist, will inform you, educate you and touch your heart. Our thanks to Oliver for baring his life so generously.

We were also treated to a personal reflection in November as Savita Ghanshyam shared her metaphoric story of resilience as she created a living garden in the desert-like location of Lightning Ridge in Australia. I asked her for some photos of what she had achieved, so, as a follow up, we share the photos and some of the words she and I created in My Garden of Weeds, as we considered what we might learn from these experiences.

We are fortunate to have a special article from Courtney Armstrong that is based on the material in her new book, Rethinking Trauma Treatment: Attachment, Memory Reconsolidation, and Resilience (W.W. Norton & Co. Inc., June, 2019). Courtney consolidates some of the best of her book in her article Transforming Traumatic Experiences with Memory Reconsolidation.

To complete the issue, we have an excerpt from a new book by Mary Eno, The School-Savvy Therapist. (W.W. Norton & Co. Inc., September, 2019). In this excerpt, Mary introduces us to what therapists need to know about schools to work effectively with them. She methodically clarifies so many things.

As we shift into the new season, winter in the north and summer in the south, it is an opportunity to reflect on the past and present change. I wonder what we might create from the possibilities hidden in and between the words these authors share. If you have something you are keen to write for us, be sure to let me know. The Science of Psychotherapy is a fertile ground for all. What is the growth you wish to inspire?

RICHARD HILL

Contents

04
NARRATIVE
My Garden of Weeds
Savita Ghanshyam (with Richard Hill)

08
APPLICATION
The School Savvy Therapist
Mary M Eno

28
MEMOIR
“The Boy Who Lived”: Reflections of An Attachment-based Therapist
Oliver J Morgan

50
FEATURE
Transforming Traumatic Experiences with Memory Reconsolidation
Courtney Armstrong

60 pages