Throughout the twentieth century the term, apperception, has become nearly synonymous with projective psychological assessment instruments like the Rorschach and the Thematic Apperception Test (TAT). “Clinical” approaches have typically been grounded in psychodynamic theory and limited to personality assessment.

However, there exists a rich body of literature that speaks of apperception as a way of describing the psychological process through which human experience becomes meaningful. Philosophers and theorists from Leibniz and Kant, through Husserl, Merleau-Ponty, and Jung have all discussed human experience, consciousness, and meaning in terms of apperception.

In addition to exploring the philosophical foundations and implications of operationalizing apperception as a primary process of the psyche, students will be introduced to practical applications. Through experiential exercises students will begin to develop the foundational skills required to conceptualize and interpret projective responses.

Alternative perspectives that view assessment as ongoing, collaborative, and dynamic will be presented. Creative use of story-telling based on artistic and client- generated images, will be approached as ways of increasing client self-understanding and awareness of personal mythology and relationships.

The class will meet Monday evenings from 5:30-8:00. Please feel free to direct your questions and interests to Dr. Larry Schor at 770-838-3034 or lschor@westga.edu