Course Content

    1. The Art of Drawing a Life - In Conversation with Ross Ellenhorn

    2. Ross Ellenhorn Quiz

In This Conversation:

In this engaging interview, Ross Ellenhorn discusses the central themes of his work at the intersection of sociology and psychotherapy, focusing on how hope, agency, and risk-taking play vital roles in human growth and recovery. Drawing from his book Purple Crayons: The Art of Drawing a Life, Ross explains how institutional models often diminish personal agency, and how therapists can instead cultivate environments that foster curiosity, possibility, and self-directed change. He explores the importance of narrative, creativity, and embracing uncertainty as essential tools in helping clients reclaim their sense of purpose and potential. The conversation invites therapists to rethink traditional frameworks and to prioritize human connection and empowerment in the therapeutic journey.

  • Understand the roles of hope, agency, and risk-taking in therapeutic growth.

  • Recognize how institutional models can unintentionally suppress client agency.

  • Explore how narrative and creativity can foster healing and empowerment.

  • Describe the importance of curiosity and embracing uncertainty in therapy.

  • Identify ways to support clients in reclaiming personal agency and life direction.

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