Integrating a Humanistic/Existential Frame with the Science of Threat/Trauma

Hybrid Event

This presentation will share some of the science related to how our brains understand threat and try to predict it in the environment. We’ll discuss the concept of threat to status, and how trauma intensifies our experience of threat. We’ll wrap up by looking at how we can integrate the science into a humanistic/existential frame, specifically using the concept of negativity bias as an example.

Chris Wilson, PsyD, is a retired psychologist who studied for many years with Bob Edelstein, LMFT, MFT, and worked therapeutically from a humanistic/existential frame. He also worked forensically doing evaluations for the State of Oregon, ran groups for abusive men, and spent many years working with inmates at Coffee Creek Correctional Facility. Six years ago, he transitioned from clinical and forensic practice into a consultant and trainer for non-profit and criminal justice organizations, focusing on how to understand the impact of psychological trauma on the brain. He was part of an effort to train every detective in the NYPD, has trained judges from coast to coast, and works locally with our non-profits serving those challenged with houselessness.