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August 1, 2021
I. From My Desk
The acclaimed anthropologist Helen Fisher reflects on the evolving human brain systems involved in attraction, sex, love, and monogamy in this TED talk.
II. Blog Articles and Podcast Recordings
Please check out the library of blog articles and podcast recordings available.
III. Recent Seminars
IV. Virtual Seminars on August 7, 2021*
The Men's Group Seminar: Jordan Peterson: Exploring Samples of His Work

Peterson, a Canadian psychologist and polarizing author, has received considerable attention for his views and opinions on life development, religion/theology, gender, morality, and social and political issues. His books include 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos, Beyond Order: 12 More Rules for Life, and Maps of Meaning: The Architecture of BeliefIn the next virtual meeting of the Men's Group Seminar on Saturday, August 7, 2021 (10:15 to 11:30 AM), we will explore a sampling of Peterson’s work. For an introduction to Peterson and the controversy surrounding him, this article from The Guardian documents the many different reactions to his thinking. Next, in our seminar we will discuss 8 brief presentations by Peterson that I have curated on a range of subjects. For those who plan to attend the seminar, please make the effort to review Peterson’s talks; they include:


To register for this upcoming virtual seminar, please see the directions below.
The Relationship Group Seminar: New Insights on Narcissism

Narcissism remains a culturally sanctioned phenomenon that some believe is supported by rapidly advancing technologies and social media which emphasize individualistic concerns. Further, the impact of narcissism on relationships continues to be detrimental. Fortunately, recent scientific research has generated new insights on narcissism that can inform those who are narcissistic and/or those who may be romantically involved with narcissistic individuals. In the next virtual meeting of the Relationship Group Seminar on Saturday, August 7, 2021 (11:45 AM to 1:00 PM), we will explore some of these new insights. Among these include recent research indicating that while some narcissists may demonstrate extreme levels of confidence and enjoy exhibiting their strengths (i.e., acting in a “grandiose” fashion), these behaviors are usually motivated by a need to compensate for low self-esteem. Moreover, related research argues that narcissism is often conflated with psychopathy and sociopathy, conditions which are typically motivated by the desire for power. However, for the narcissist, power appears to be less important than status because, again, the central issue driving the narcissist is the need to feel better about him- or herself. In addition, there is now widespread agreement that the emotional upheavals frequently demonstrated by narcissists result from a trio of factors (e.g., “insecurity, inferiority, fragility”) associated with overwhelming feelings of vulnerability. Other research suggests that most people exhibit some degree of narcissism, but that various factors appear to differentiate “toxic” narcissism from normal narcissism. These factors seem to center on deficits in recognizing the needs of others, having empathy, and taking accountability for issues and problems.  

To register for this upcoming virtual seminar, please see the directions below.
V. Psychotherapy Group
The Dynamic Psychotherapy Process Group

This therapy group utilizes the emerging dynamics among group members, and between the group members and facilitator, as a basis from which to examine one's characteristic ways of thinking, feeling, and relating to others. Our next virtual group session will be held on Saturday, August 7, 2021 (1:15 to 2:30 PM). The Dynamic Psychotherapy Process Group is a therapeutic experience and entry occurs only after a pre-group screening interview.
* Registration Directions: If you would like to attend the virtual meeting of the Men's Group Seminar and/or the Relationship Group Seminar on August 7, 2021, please RSVP to me at 949-338-4388 or jt@jamestobinphd.com on or before Thursday, August 5, 2021. The fee is $25.00 (payable before entering the virtual meeting) and informed consent for participation in these telehealth events must be completed prior to the seminars. Please note that the Men's Group Seminar and the Relationship Group Seminar are psychoeducational in nature, not therapeutic, and do not constitute psychotherapy or counseling.

James Tobin, Ph.D., PSY 22074 | 949-338-4388 | jt@jamestobinphd.com