Description:
Many therapists are effective with certain clients and have a difficult time with others. They become frustrated and believe that their therapeutic approach does not work with those clients. The problem is not the approach, but the difference in clients’ personality adaptations. This workshop uses theory, presentations, and demonstrations to teach mental health professionals how to work effectively with each adaptation.
The concept of personality adaptations offers an exciting, new approach to working with personality dynamics. It was originated by Paul Ware, M.D., and Taibi Kahler, Ph.D., and further developed by Vann Joines, Ph.D., as a result of 40 years of clinical observation and research. The workshop will cover the diagnosis and treatment of six core personality adaptations: Creative Daydreamer (schizoid), Brilliant Skeptic (paranoid), Charming Manipulator (antisocial), Playful Resister (passive-aggressive), Responsible Workaholic (obsessive-compulsive), and Enthusiastic Overreact-or (histrionic). These adaptations form the basic building blocks of personality and can be observed across the different DSM-5 disorders. Each adaptation has its unique way of approaching the world, working most effectively in making changes, and defending against vulnerability.
We will look at how the adaptations develop, how they interact in the world, the major treatment issues, and how to work most effectively with each type. The books, Personality Adaptations (Lifespace, 2002) and Insight Out (Outskirts Publishing, 2022), and the JPAQ questionnaire developed by Vann Joines, Ph.D., are recommended for this workshop to understand and assess the adaptations. By knowing these adaptations, therapists, regardless of their theoretical orientation, can quickly establish rapport, target interventions, avoid getting stuck in defenses, and maximize their effectiveness.
Learning Objectives:
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List the six core personality adaptations.
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Describe how the adaptations develop.
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List the therapeutic doors for each adaptation.
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Explain the difference between the surviving and performing adaptations.
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List the primary drivers for each adaptation.
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List the six personality adaptations
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Summarize the influence of nature and nurture on the development of personality adaptations.
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Explain the concepts of open door, target door, and trap door.
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Briefly describe the five driver behaviors outlined by Bob and Mary Goulding.
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List three examples of “cons” and their corresponding personality adaptations.
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Explain how parenting style shapes personality development.
