Philadelphia Psychotherapy

At the Philadelphia Psychotherapy Study Center, our mission is to provide a dynamic learning community for mental health professionals in the Philadelphia region. Our organization is inspired by the principles of psychoanalytic object relations theory, which seeks to understand the complexities of the human psyche through the study of major theorists and the integration of theoretical concepts with clinical practice.

Our Story

Established in 2010, the Philadelphia Psychotherapy Study Center is a chapter of the International Psychotherapy Institute and a Professional Learning Community. Our center is led by a distinguished group of faculty members, including Charles Ashbach, Karen Fraley, and Paul Koehler, who bring together their expertise to provide unique continuing education opportunities and seminars.

Our Philosophy

Object relations theory has evolved to encompass a wide range of ideas about the origin and functioning of the internalized object and its fate in various contexts. At the Philadelphia Psychotherapy Study Center, we are committed to exploring an approach that integrates the realities of the body, group, and imagination to understand the forces that lead to psychic growth.

Our Services

We offer a range of programs, seminars, and lectures that cater to the needs of mental health professionals. Our programs are designed to provide in-depth learning opportunities, allowing participants to engage with current research and theoretical concepts in a dynamic and interactive environment.

Our Programs

• Cultivating The Surviving Object: This seminar will explore the importance of the primary object's capacity to "survive" the impacts of the infant's aggression and hostility, and the consequences for development when that survival is compromised.
• Work, Play, and Paradox: The Enduring Legacy of D.W. Winnicott: This seminar will examine the significance of Winnicott's theories of human development and his late paper, "The Use of an Object and Relating through identification".
• Seeing It Through: Essential Elements for Establishing, Protecting and Sustaining Psychodynamic Psychotherapy: This seminar will explore the essential elements for establishing, protecting, and sustaining psychodynamic psychotherapy.
• Foundations of Western Literature: This program will delve into the foundations of Western literature and its relevance to psychoanalytic thought.

About Our Faculty

Our faculty members are renowned experts in their fields, with a deep understanding of psychoanalytic object relations theory and its applications. They are dedicated to providing high-quality educational programs that cater to the needs of mental health professionals.

Our New Book

We are excited to announce our new book, "SUFFERING AND SACRIFICE IN THE CLINICAL ENCOUNTER" by Charles Ashbach, Karen Fraley, Paul Kohler, and James Poulton. This book is published by Phoenix Publishing House and is now available for purchase.

Current Seminars

We invite you to explore our current seminars and programs, where you can engage with our faculty and fellow professionals to deepen your understanding of psychoanalytic object relations theory and its applications in clinical practice.