In The Creative Therapist, Bradford Keeney makes the case that "creativity is the most essential aspect of vibrant, meaningful, and successful therapy." No matter what therapeutic orientation one practices, it must be awakened by creativity in order for the session to come alive. This book presents a theoretical framework that provides an understanding of how to go outside habituated ways of therapy in order to bring forth new and innovative possibilities. A basic structure for creative therapy, based on the outline of a three-part theatrical play, is also set forth. With these frameworks, practical guidelines detail how to initiate and implement creative contributions to any therapeutic situation.
Biography
Bradford Keeney, PhD, is presently Professor, Department of Transformative Studies, California Institute of Integral Studies, San Francisco, and Clinical Director, Center for Children and Families, Monroe, Louisiana. He has served distinguished careers as a social cybernetician, systemic therapist, anthropologist of cultural healing traditions, conversation analyst, improvisational performer, and creative consultant. Kenney has directed several doctoral programs and has worked at some of the most highly respected psychotherapy institutes, including the Ackerman Institute, the Karl Menninger Center, and the Philadelphia Child Guidance Clinic at the University of Pennslyvania. He is the originator of several orientations of psychotherapy and the inventor of a reserach method that discerns pattern in conversation ("recursive frame analysis"). Kenney presently is utlizing what he has learned from the arts and sciences across diverse cultural traditions to explore uncommon creativity in psychotherapy and the transformative arts.
"Did you ever wonder where the spirit and voice went of Abraham Maslow, R. D. Laing, Fritz Perls, Jacob Moreno, Sheldon Kopp, Ira Progoff, Carl Whitaker, Eric Berne, and other therapists who inspired your career? It is alive and well – Brad Keeney is on fire with their spirit! If you missed it then, read it now! The Creative Therapist will awaken your memory of why you wanted to be a therapist, why it matters, and how to be a catalyst for change." -Stephen Lankton, author, therapist, editor-in-chief of the American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis
"This is one of the best books I have read in years about psychotherapy. Brad Keeney re-awakens and extends further the creative roots of American psychotherapy, where a living conversational field is valued above fixed theories and formulas. The writing is delightful, challenging, cajoling, and filled with gems of wisdom--just like a good therapy session!" -Stephen Gilligan, Ph.D, author of The Courage to Love and The Legacy of Erickson
"This book is a breath of fresh air that reminds us of what therapy is really about, of the healing power of relationships and of the beauty of metaphors and symbols. The stories are unforgettable. A great read for therapists and for all those interested in improving their life." -Cloe Madanes, co-author (with Tony Robbins) of The Ultimate Relationship Program
"I love this book! Here artistry is brought back to the practice of psychotherapy. It is a delight to read, and to see, therapy done in creative ways that so clearly carry forth the essence of Milton H. Erickson’s work. I celebrate the arrival of this vital and vitally alive book and believe it can help each of us access, trust, and incorporate the deepest sources of creative wisdom we carry within." -From the Preface by Betty Alice Erickson, international teacher of psychotherapy and co-editor, Milton H. Erickson, M.D.: An American Healer
"In The Creative Therapist, Brad Keeney doesn’t just awaken you. He will shake you up, expand your therapeutic repertoire, and magnify your healing power. Read this and move from therapist to healer." -Carl Hammerschlag, M.D. author of The Dancing Healers, The Theft of the Spirit, and Healing Ceremonies
"Brad Keeney lights a fire under the whole therapeutic community. Flying under the rubric of 'Therapy Can Be Fun,' he challenges our conventional approaches and presents a dazzling array of innovative ideas and techniques. Through the use of a theatrical metaphor, he stages wondrous family dramas filled with surprise and unexpected possibilities. Monsters become friends, family skeletons are danced with, secret love is expressed, and obstructing perceptions are turned upside down. This exciting book is sure to stir readers' imaginations and stimulate them to experiment with these unique ideas in their own clinical practice." -Peggy Papp, MSW, author of The Invisible Web: Gender Patterns in Family Relationships and The Process of Change; Director of the Depression and Gender Project, Ackerman Institute for the Family
