Testimonials

“Affect Phobia (APT) is an evidence-based brief psychodynamic model that integrates cognitive-behavioral and experiential approaches so the therapist can work with patients to resolve their presenting problems and improve their relationships. The APT therapist helps their patient focus on developing adaptive emotional reactions, which leads to symptom reduction but also more satisfying personal relationship s and productive lives. Over 30 years of research, including case series and randomized controlled trials, have demonstrated the effectiveness of APT, at the end of treatment and in short- and long-term follow-ups. Kristin Osborn and Pål Ulvenes, lead APT trainer and supervisor, were trained extensively by Leigh McCullough, the founder of APT. This is a workshop that provides invaluable training in using affect in therapy, whether or not you are an APT therapist. ”

– Bruce Wampold, Ph.D., ABPP

Patricia Wolleat Professor of Counseling Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Director, Research Institute, Modum Bad Psychiatric Center, Vikersund, Norway

“Kristin’s Affect Phobia Therapy (APT) workshop hosted by the Clinical Division of the Psychological Society of Ireland and the University College Dublin doctoral programme in clinical psychology was an outstanding training event. Over two days Kristin presented the APT model using a thoughtful blend of powerpoint, video recordings and discussion. The audience included both novices and experienced therapists. With great sensitivity to the leaning needs of this mixed audience, Kristin showed us how to use the model with a range of clinical problems. By presenting recordings for APT conducted by herself, Dr Leigh McCollough (the originator of APT), and other therapists, Kristin helped us to understand how the core processes of the model can be addressed in different ways by therapists with different styles. Not only did we all learn a great deal at this workshop, it was also a very enjoyable experience, largely due to Kristin’s unique talents as a trainer.”

-Alan Carr, PhD, FBPsS, FPSsI
Professor of Clinical Psychology
University College Dublin

“I had an opportunity to use APT with a client on my recent clinical placement and it was such an incredible learning experience. As you highlighted during the two days, this approach really opens us up to our own affect phobias… I think this is one of the most powerful aspects of this therapeutic approach- this past summer is the first time I’ve had the opportunity to apply this approach in practice and, unsurprisingly, my own affect phobias were highlighted to me! I was constantly reminded of my role in the client’s process and how my own affect phobia may have been blocking my availability to the client.

I want to thank you and by extension Leigh McCullough for the incredible work she has done in both developing this approach, studying its efficacy, and making it available and accessible to therapists no matter what their background or training.”

-Ph.D. student from Ireland

“ Thank you very much for your enthusiasm, for teaching me the idea of self-compassion that you showed in your tapes and in the course. You made me very enthusiastic for E-STDP.”

-Dutch Psychotherapist