Instructor:                  Jan Bartlett, Ph.D.

Undergraduate:         CE 495 – 002416 - 1 Undergraduate Credit

                                   Grade Method:  Letter Grade or Pass/No Credit (PNOC)

Graduate:                   CE 595 – 002417 - 1 Graduate Credit

                                   Grade Method:  Letter Grade or Pass/No Credit (PNOC)

Workshop Only:        CE 0003 – 002418 -Non-Credit: No academic credit awarded

                                    (13 Continuing Education Contact Hours awarded

                                    upon successful completion of workshop requirements)

Dates/Times:              Friday, September 12, 2008 – 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

                                    Saturday, September 13, 2008 - 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Location:                    University Center Rochester – CF 206/208

Substance abuse, eating disorders, and cutting are powerful indicators of emotional pain. This workshop will explore how Relational-Cultural Theory (RCT) can be used with clients to address these issues.  New brain research from Harvard University which provides exciting evidence for the power of connections will be presented.   RCT researchers and practitioners believe that chronic disconnection leads to the development of pathology.  The relational-cultural approach stresses mutuality, responsiveness and care, and cooperation.  Positive change is empowered by relationships that nourish and sustain healthy connections and choices. Unfortunately, many people do not experience these types of growth fostering relationships.  Chronic disconnection can lead to behavior that is internalized and expressed through self-wounding.  In addition, elements of quantum physics as related to human potential and the creation of change in behavior will be explored. Film clips, small group discussion, and PowerPoint presentation will be used to introduce new ideas. Participants can expect to learn fresh ideas regarding the theory of change and therapeutic interventions.  Experiential activities that allow for discussion and exploration of key workshop concepts will be implemented throughout the workshop experience.  Storytelling, sharing, and discussion will be encouraged to promote self-exploration and growth.   Students will have the opportunity to synthesize workshop content and concepts through a process of integration and discussion of emerging trends and future impact and implications for Relational-Cultural Theory (RCT). 

Jan Bartlett, Ph.D.

Dr. Bartlett is an Associate Professor and Graduate Coordinator for Counseling at the
University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls, IA.  She earned her Ph.D. from the University of Arkansas where she did her dissertation work entitled:  An Exploration of Storytelling: Older Adult Women Sharing Narratives with Adolescent Girls on Female Development and Body Image.  She has written numerous professional articles and book chapters.  She has presented nationally and internationally on a variety of topics including storytelling, body image, school counseling, and other counseling related topics.