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The Art of Character Analysis

Character analysis, as defined by Wilhelm Reich, is an essential component of my method. I often quote Reich as his explanations make vividly clear the nuances of his clinical approach. I picked a selection for you that describes an aspect of character analysis and how it works in practice.

We stated that character analysis begins with the singling out and consistent analysis of the character resistance. This does not mean that the patient is enjoined not to be aggressive, not to be deceptive, not to speak in an incoherent manner, to follow the basic rule, etc. Such demands would not only be contrary to analytic procedure, they would be fruitless… In character analysis we ask ourselves why is the patient deceptive, speaks in an incoherent manner, is emotionally blocked, etc.; we endeavor to arouse his interest in the peculiarities of his character in order to elucidate, with his help, their meaning and origin through analysis.  In other words, we merely single out from the orbit of the personality the character trait from which the cardinal resistance proceeds, and, if possible, we show the patient the surface relation between the character and the symptoms….we isolate the character trait and put it before the patient again and again until he has succeeded in breaking clear of it and viewing it as he would a vexatious compulsive symptom” (Reich, Selected Writings, 1973, 56)

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Learn Dr. Frisch’s Method Through Audio Courses

My Independent Study Program (ISP) offers students, professional therapists and patients easy access to audio teaching modules covering all aspects of therapeutic practice outside of a formal classroom process – in an organized and methodical fashion. After years of organizing and distilling the relevant clinical material of Reich, Masterson and Jung, I developed a method that teaches a precise clinical approach using discrete steps with functionally applicable tools – the basics of how to do therapy from soup-to-nuts.

Through teaching live classes for many years, and with the help of students who recorded a prodigious amount of these sessions, I began the mammoth job of editing all of the recordings with my terrific audio engineer, and created a compendium of CD’s and MP3’s that give public access to this abundant supply of theoretical and clinical information on Orgonomy and my own method. These audio learning programs feature lively student discussions, which include the listener as if he or she is attending the class. Of course, the CD’s were highly edited to eliminate compromising personal information in order to maintain strict confidentiality.

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The Schizoid Disorder of the Self

I threatened in my December post that I would continue my descriptions of character types, so I will delineate one more. That way, for February, I can assign a task for my readers to figure out their type – one that best describes their dominant propensities. You don’t have to exhibit every variable of a specific character, but more than not you exemplify many or most of the traits. This is a fun exercise for couples and educates you on the dynamics at play within the couple as the two types interact, creating their unique family ‘system’.

The Schizoid is most notably an isolated, self-sufficient type. His relationship situation can vary on a spectrum from having relations with family and friends to one that lacks any social contact. The Schizoid is introverted and more comfortable with solitary activities. He spends his mental time with an active fantasy life as a substitute for contact. He appears detached and unemotional about most of his personal issues and can seem cold and disinterested. Beneath this appearance, the Schizoid is sensitive and has deep longing to belong but may not appear that way on the surface. He has suffered pain in his life and therefore is frightened to move too close and get hurt again. So he may appear aloof.

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Reich’s Map of Body Armor: Pelvic Segment

We have arrived, in our delineation of the segments of body armor, at the final, seventh segment: the pelvis. Once the other six segments have been opened, releasing the pelvic segment will allow us to experience a complete flow of energy and circulation from the top of our head through to our feet. Energy can circulate and be released through work, pleasurable activities, exercise, and sexual expression. The pelvis should be flexible, mobile, and move with ease so that it can allow energetic movement rather than become a block to expression. This openness from head to toe creates a sense of well-being, health, ease of movement, and relaxation. Relational intimacy also increases as our expressions flow more freely and we can make good contact with others.body armor

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