The Poor Prole’s Almanac: Therapy, Activism, and Radical Politics: Rethinking the Role of Psychotherapy in Societal Change | Media file

Dr. Carter J. Carter, a seasoned psychotherapist and academic, joins us to explore the rich and complex tapestry that intertwines psychotherapy, activism, and radical politics. His profound insights challenge conventional views, urging us to reconsider the role of therapy in societal change. By questioning its function as potentially the "opiate of the masses," Dr. Carter delves deep into the heart of leftist ideologies, evaluating the intricate balance therapists must navigate as both healers and, inadvertently, agents of the state. With an emphasis on the distinction between individual and systemic issues, he calls for a therapeutic practice aligned with anarchist beliefs, acknowledging the broader structures that shape personal struggles.

Our conversation broadens to consider the foundations of mental health, questioning the universality of therapy as a solution for psychological woes. Dr. Carter critiques traditional approaches, drawing on the works of Frantz Fanon and others, to emphasize the psychological benefits of collective actions such as union membership. We discuss the limitations of psychoanalysis, the critique of SSRIs, and the advocacy for communal support systems that address the emotional injuries perpetuated by societal structures like patriarchy. The dialogue also highlights the necessity for broader interventions, particularly in addressing historical trauma in Native American communities and blending individual and collective healing processes.

The episode culminates in a reflection on the evolving role of therapists within society, recognizing their potential to act benevolently even under systemic constraints. We explore the challenges faced by marginalized communities striving for change, emphasizing the need for autonomy, agency, and mutual aid. By addressing the shortcomings of mental health care systems and the societal reliance on therapy, we underscore the pressing need for systemic change. Dr. Carter's insights provide a compelling call to action, urging a shift towards collective empowerment and societal transformation, with therapy as a complementary but not sole vehicle for liberation.

To check out Dr. Carter's work, visit: https://www.carterjcarter.com

For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: https://www.agroecologies.org

To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac

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To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: https://www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

Key words: #Psychotherapy, #Activism, #RadicalPolitics, #Therapy, #Liberation, #SystemicIssues, #AnarchistBeliefs, #LeftistIdeologies, #FrantzFanon, #UnionMembership, #Psychoanalysis, #SSRIs, #CommunalSupportSystems, #EmotionalInjuries, #StateAgents, #Autonomy, #Agency, #MutualAid, #HistoricalTrauma, #NativeAmericanCommunities, #CollectiveEmpowerment, #SocietalTransformation, #MentalHealth, #PersonalityDevelopment, #SocioeconomicFactors, #FinancialInstability, #SocialWorkers, #Psychotherapists, #StateSystems, #Autonomy, #Agency, #PoliticalEducation, #ViktorFrankl, #DaveChappelle, #KanyeWest, #Palestine, #Privacy, #Boundaries, #SocioeconomicConditions, #SocietalStructures, #MentalHealthCareSystems, #Fascism, #TransphobicPropaganda, #Pseudoscience, #AntiFascist, #LiberatoryPsychoanalysis, #RevolutionaryEnds, #GrannyTherapy, #YouthCulture, #CommunityBuilding, #InsuranceLiabilities, #DecentralizedResistance, #FinancialRealities, #PsychoAnalyst

The Poor Prole’s Almanac: Therapy, Activism, and Radical Politics: Rethinking the Role of Psychotherapy in Societal Change

The Poor Prole’s Almanac

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#GenZ #Resilience #YouthCulture

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#Ballycotton #BlackAndWhite #blackAndWhitePhotography #BlarneyPhotographyClub #coastalLife #comingOfAge #Cork #CountyCork #EastCork #fishingPier #fishingVillage #harbour #Ireland #maritimeHeritage #Photo #Photography #pierLife #seagulls #silhouette #silhouettes #teenagers #youthCulture

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SZA took to Instagram to share how she convinced a literal child to ditch his nitrous oxide canister in exchange for a pic with her.

Shine My Crown

Underpass Artists

Two young men decorate the underpass on the Line in Blackrock this evening with spray paint. There are fabulous murals on both walls of the underpass!

Fun fact: spray paint, the tool of choice here, was invented in 1949 by Edward Seymour, on the suggestion of his wife, Bonnie.

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#Blackrock #Cork #graffiti #Ireland #mural #neonLights #Photo #Photography #sprayPaint #streetArt #StreetPhotography #TheLine #underpass #urbanArt #youthCulture

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This week’s newsletter dives into the narrative surrounding Gen Z.

Despite media worries about their mental health and democratic engagement, a more nuanced view reveals a generation filled with resilience and positivity.

#GenZ #Resilience #YouthCulture

Gen Z stands out as perhaps the healthiest generation in America.

Smoking and drinking rates are at historic lows, with more young people prioritizing wellness and fitness.

Where do they connect? Often, it's at the gym, seeking community.

#Wellness #Fitness #HealthyLiving

Interestingly, Gen Z is recognized as the least criminally active generation in modern history.

Their focus has shifted away from crime, even amidst digital challenges that foster isolation.

#CrimePrevention #SocialTrends

This generation is also the most educated, with many opting for trades over traditional college paths as they see stagnating returns.

They may reshape the job landscape as AI starts to influence employment opportunities.

#Education #JobMarket #FutureOfWork

Women aged 25-34 in Gen Z and millennials are now earning 95 cents to every dollar men earn.

This progress marks them as the most equitably compensated cohort in American history, as they seek jobs with balance.

#GenderEquality #EqualPay

Middle and high schoolers are reporting greater engagement in school and feeling more prepared for their futures, possibly indicating a positive shift post-pandemic.

Black Gen Z-ers, in particular, are expressing much confidence about what lies ahead.

#Education #Confidence #FutureGeneration

What Could Go Right? - We Haven't Given Up on Gen Z

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The Progress Network