IC19 Keynote 02 – The Future Orientation of Milton H. Erickson – Michael Yapko, PhD

Description:

A core element of the innovative psychotherapies of Milton Erickson was his emphasis on helping patients gradually shift from a focus on the unchangeable past to a focus on the positive potentials of the future. In recent years, substantial evidence has accumulated that makes it clear that a focus on the future is far more than just a philosophical preference. In fact, an orientation to the future has been associated with some of the most fundamental aspects of clinical practice ranging from an individual’s personality traits to his or her treatment response. In this address, then, we will consider some of the many facets of a future orientation and some of the ways Dr. Erickson was prescient in his encouraging a future focus in psychotherapy.

Educational Objectives:

1. Identify and discuss ways Dr. Erickson oriented therapy patients to future potentials.
2. List and discuss the consequences of a future orientation on different aspects of psychological functioning.

*Sessions may be edited for content and to preserve confidentiality*