Ryan has developed presentations and workshops on a variety of subjects and has participated in numerous panels relating to developmental/complex trauma. His current areas of focus includes depth and relational approaches to psychotherapy, dreamwork, and topics relating to the treatment of trauma. Please send inquiries into Ryan’s availability to speak or present at group therapy practices, mental health centers, or undergraduate/graduate classes through the contact page.
See below for presentations, interviews, and any scheduled events.
available PRESENTATION TOPICS & SUMMARIES
The function of symbols in the transformation of trauma
(*Please note this presentations will be most useful for clinicians who provide psychotherapy or other treatment modalities)
Our understanding of trauma, and effective approaches in its treatment, have increased dramatically over the last two decades. Much of the focus has centered on neurobiology and physiology, leading to invaluable insights into how trauma is experienced and stored in the mind as well as the body. While our knowledge of the biological processes resulting from traumatic experiences has grown, our appreciation for the role of the psyche has diminished. This often leaves therapists unequipped to access areas of traumatic experience and recovery that are less material, yet still of great importance. This presentation proposes the need to reintegrate the psyche in trauma work and investigates how this supports the potential of the symbolic to emerge as a conduit for cohesion, meaning, and transformation. Jung’s ideas regarding the transcendent function and complexes guide our inquiry into the psychic and symbolic elements in the trauma field.
Presentation History:
Sage Stone Counseling, Chicago, IL | September 12, 2023
The C.G. Jung Center, Evanston, IL | April 29, 2023
the clinical applications & Healing potential of dreamWork
Dreams: Are they relevant in our modern age? Can they help in our work with clients? Ever feel lost when a client shares a dream they are curious about? This workshop examines different ways dreams have influenced human experience, how integrating dreams in clinical practice can deepen and energize the therapeutic experience, and what recent research in neuroscience indicates for the future of dream work. You will leave with fresh ideas and specific ways to work with your client’s dreams and what their dreams can offer in relation to diagnostic insight, treatment plan, and prognosis.
Presentation History:
The C.G. Jung Center, Evanston, IL | November 21, 2020
Watch Hill Therapy, Chicago, IL | April 13, 2018 & October 14, 2017
"Ryan’s dream workshop included both in depth information along with experiential tools to apply empowering methodologies to working with clients and their dreams. I thoroughly enjoyed this workshop and would recommend to all therapists." Christina Sprayberry, MA, LCSW
PAST PRESENTATIONS
Body as guru: Empowering the body as the guide in healing trauma
The root of the Sanskrit word guru comes from gu, which translates as darkness, and ru, which translates as remover. Thus the most direct translation for the word guru is "the remover of darkness". In this experiential workshop for therapists, we honor the body as teacher, healer, and ultimately the remover of darkness.
This is an opportunity for therapists to connect with their embodied experience through yoga, breathing exercises, and meditation. We explore how the body holds the narrative of our lived experience and carries traumatic and painful memories, even long after they’ve occurred.
Presentation History:
Watch Hill Therapy, Chicago, IL | February 20th, 2016
Live Oak, Chicago, IL | September 20, 2013
"Ryan brings both spark and sensitivity to his instruction. His firm grasp on anatomy and alignment and professional knowledge of the psyche provides the foundation for safe exploration of a realm deeper than just the physical asana. Time with Ryan is always an opportunity to experience profound healing." Lara V., LCSW
