Incorporating psychodrama and other experiential methods into individual therapy sessions can enliven and inspire both client and therapist. In this workshop, we will co-create a comfortable learning environment where students can direct in the full group and/or in smaller break-out sessions, at their level of experience. Practical action structures will be demonstrated and practiced. Written instructions/guidelines will be distributed. Attention will be given to warm-up, action and sharing/closure when working with individuals. Therapeutic goals will inform the use of each intervention. Each student will have numerous opportunities to be in the role of director and/or protagonist and witness. All skills are transferable to group therapy. 

The additional 2-hour warm-up Zoom meeting on Thursday May 1 at 6:30-8:30 pm, will allow more time for in-person practice as well as a chance to practice directing online. 

This training draws on Psychodrama theory and methodology, Somatic Attachment Therapy, mindfulness and Buddhist Psychology, and the theory of neuroplasticity.  All teachings are trauma-informed, emphasizing the importance of clients staying in their window of tolerance. Join us for an engaging and stimulating weekend, and add to your toolbox of psychodramatic interventions. 

What is Psychodrama? Psychodrama is an experiential method of exploring our private and public worlds in a multidimensional, creative way. It helps you to safely express feelings, develop insights and practice new, desired behaviors. Psychodrama meets you where you are in the present and assists you in contacting and developing the best that is within yourself. As a natural outgrowth, people experience a deeper connection and appreciation of others. Psychodrama emphasizes creativity and spontaneity rather than illness and pathology.
 
Who should attend? This workshop/training is appropriate for those new to psychodrama, as well as experienced practitioners; professionals and students in mental health and related fields; criminal and civil lawyers; and those wanting to further their knowledge or experience of psychodrama. No acting skills are needed and participation is at your level of comfort. Shy people are welcome.  

Educational Goal 
Participants will learn psychodramatic action structures to integrate into their work with individual clients and that can be adapted to working with groups. 
 
Learning Objectives
After the workshop/training participants will be better able to: 

• Demonstrate one or more psychodramatic methods when working with individual clients.
• Discuss the importance of helping the protagonist maintain emotional regulation (stay in their window of tolerance) throughout a psychodrama session.
• Utilize body awareness to assist a client to embody a role. 
• Demonstrate moving from talking to action, from the therapist chair to action or stage area.
• List two uses of an empty chair in individual therapy.
• Use props, scarves, pillows, etc., in an individual session.
• Discuss the importance of the warm-up phase of psychodrama in working with individuals.
• Explain why doubling is effective, drawing from psychodrama and attachment theories. 
• Demonstrate interviewing a client in a supportive role.
• Utilize the timeline as a pencil and paper technique and in action.

DATES and HOURS: Saturday and Sunday, 9:30 am – 5:45 pm; plus Zoom meeting on Thursday May 1, 6:30-8:30 pm or another mutually agreed upon time. 

WHERE: 55 La Goma, Mill Valley, CA 94941

FEE: $475 by 4/24/2025; $525 after.
Students (with full-time ID): $400 by 4/25/2026; $450 after.
Refund Policy: Full refund up to two weeks prior to the first day of the workshop. 50% one week prior. No refund thereafter.
Payment plans available.

TO REGISTER: To register please fill out the Registration Form. 

INFORMATION: sylvia@imaginecenter.net and (415) 454-7308.  Contact Danielle Williams jdsl@aol.com with any questions regarding registration. 
    
CONTINUING EDUCATION for LMFT, LCSW, LPCC, and/or LEP: Course meets the qualifications for 16 continuing education hours for LMFTs, LCSWs, LPCCs, and/or LEPs as required by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. Sylvia Israel, Provider # 019617, is approved by the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists to sponsor continuing education for LMFTs, LCSWs, LPCCs, and/or LEP. Sylvia Israel maintains responsibility for this program/course and its content. 
Additional fee: $25 per workshop. Certificates of Attendance: Will be distributed upon completion. Accommodations and Grievances:

See http://www.bayareamorenoinstitute.com/ceu-provider/ 
 
CONTINUING EDUCATION for Licensed Psychologists and Registered Nurses: Contact Sylvia 8-weeks before the first day of the workshop. 
Additional Fee: $100 per workshop.

Drama Therapy and Psychodrama Training Hours: 16.5 hours may also be applied for Drama Therapy (recognized by NADTA) & Psychodrama (Recognized by the American Board of Examiners in Psychodrama, Sociometry and Group Psychotherapy).
Psychodrama Certificate of Attendance: Will be awarded to all participants upon completion. (No Fee)

HEALTH POLICY: Participants’ health is important. Respectfully, we also acknowledge that each individual is entirely responsible for their health and safety. If you are experiencing any (Covid, flu, cold) symptoms of illness prior to the weekend, please contact Sylvia. You will be fully refunded minus a $75 administrative fee.