Clinicians and Creativity: How Psychology Informs Therapists ’ Inventive Projects

Clinical psychologist Deborah Serani, Psy.D, has been writing since she was a little girl—everything from short stories to poetry to science fiction. So, for her, publishing books as an adult was a natural progression. Serani is the author of several titles on treating and living with depression. Recently, she published a psychological thriller entitled The Ninth Session about a psychologist who starts working with a patient who’s struggling with severe anxiety—and keeping some dangerous secrets. “My work as a psychologist was vital in writing The Ninth Session,” said Serani, who has a private practice in Smithtown, New York. “This book is about psychoanalysis, so I could not have written a thing without my professional training.” Serani’s book gives readers insight into what psychotherapy is like, along with how clinicians think and work. The book also delves into psychopathology and trauma. Understanding Clients and Characters For New England clinical psychologist Jacqueline Sheehan, Ph.D, writing has always been a natural outlet. “I have always had stories running through my head.” Sheehan is the author of six novels (almost seven!), including The Tiger in the House and The Center of the World. “My background as a psychologist helps me to understand the motivation of my characters, just as it guided me to understand why my clients did what they did, even when it didn’t serve them well,” said Sheehan. Her background also helps her not to judge h...
Source: World of Psychology - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: Books Creativity General Mental Health and Wellness Creative Expression Source Type: blogs