"From Winging It to Owning It" by Michael Alcée explores the concept of therapeutic improvisation, likening it to jazz improvisation. The article emphasizes the blend of prepared spontaneity and disciplined freedom required in therapy, allowing therapists to respond dynamically to the ever-changing emotional and cognitive landscapes of their clients. Alcée highlights the importance of understanding interpersonal neurobiology and the therapeutic relationship as a creative process. He draws parallels between therapeutic techniques and jazz principles, such as free association and evenly hovering attention, to illustrate how therapists can help clients navigate their emotional experiences. The article also discusses the importance of curiosity and openness in therapy, advocating for a balance between childlike spontaneity and expert knowledge to enhance therapeutic practice.

  • Understand the concept of therapeutic improvisation and its parallels to jazz improvisation.

  • Recognize the importance of combining prepared spontaneity with disciplined freedom in therapeutic practice.

  • Explore the role of interpersonal neurobiology in enhancing therapeutic creativity and effectiveness.

  • Learn how the principles of free association and evenly hovering attention can be applied in therapy sessions.

  • Appreciate the significance of curiosity and openness in overcoming individual and collective psychological challenges.

  • Develop strategies to balance childlike spontaneity with expert knowledge to improve therapeutic outcomes.

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Content

    1. Interview with Michael Alcée

    2. From Winging It To Owning It Michael Alcée

    1. June 2022 full download

Expert

Michael Alcée

Michael Alcee, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist in private practice in Tarrytown, NY and Mental Health Educator at Manhattan School of Music. He specializes in the psychology of artists and everyday creativity and the professional development of therapists. His contributions have appeared in The Chicago Tribune, The New York Times, NPR, Salon.com, and on the TEDx stage. His book, from Norton, is entitled Therapeutic Improvisation: How to Stop Winging It and Own It as a Therapist.