Amanda Keating Serves on Panel at International Committee of Adlerian Summer Schools and Institutes

This past summer, Amanda Keating from CFS's Division of Applied Research and Educational Support attended the International Committee of Adlerian Summer Schools and Institutes (ICASSI) held July 16 - 29 in Oberstaufen, Germany. Participants come from around the world, typically from over twenty different countries, to continue learning principles associated with Individual Psychology, which is based on understanding individuals within their social context and helping them find a way to belong and contribute in whatever environment they find themselves.

“It’s interesting to see how closely aligned the principles of Positive Behavior Support mirror those found in Adlerian psychology,” said Amanda. Although the two fields often include interventionists with quite different types of training and techniques, the philosophy and goals are practically identical. Amanda has presented at several ICASSI meetings. This year, she was asked to sit on a panel and participate in a demonstration of how different therapists might treat a particular client with Borderline Personality Disorder.

"It’s an amazing experience. You end up knowing other people from all over the world, and it’s wonderful to hear how other people around the around the world tackle the same issues we face” added Amanda. There are several ICASSI participants who specialize in autism and communication disorders as well. “Every year, you come back with a different perspective and new ideas.” Next year, ICASSI will be held at Mennorode Conference Centre in the village of Elspeet in the Netherlands. You can find more information about the program at www.ICASSI.net .