The Postmodern Salon is an opportunity for community and conversation. Participants tend to be psychotherapists and life coaches interested in and influenced by postmodern and social constructionist ideas.

A topic each meeting serves as a launch pad for conversation. Sometimes the conversation stays close to the topic. Sometimes the conversation broadens. The topic might come from an article, a book, a movie, or someone's suggestion. Participants do not have to be familiar with the topic, only curious and willing to participate in the conversation. Some topics are "heady," some "practical," and some "fun."

Examples of some topics from past Salons include:

"Heady" - What Do Pictures Want? - An exploration of postmodern ideas about the relationship of picture and viewer. What "language" is used in pictures? How is this language different than verbal or written language?

"Practical" - Personal Failure - Exploration of and practice with Michael White's therapeutic map for deconstructing "personal failure" and reauthoring hope and possibility. What are the possibilities in using this map with clients? What are the possibilities in using this map in the lives of therapists and Salon participants?

"Fun" - What's in "In Treatment"? - Explorations of how therapy is portrayed in the media and in this particular HBO series. What's in it for clients or potential clients? What's in it for therapists?

The Salon meets about once a month on a Saturday or Sunday. Dates are chosen at the conclusion of each Salon by those attending. The time is 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

Geographic location varies to accomodate the different interests and needs of participants. One Salon may be hosted in Santa Monica, the next in Los Angeles, the next in Calabassas, etc.

There are no obligations to attend. Participants attend when they want and when they can. The topic influences some to come. The location influences some. The community influences all.

A different Salon member hosts each Salon. "Hosting" means that the Salon is meeting at that member's home or other location. "Hosting" is low pressure and only means that a location is being provided. The Host has no additional obligations regarding the conversation. Some hosts provide snacks and beverages. Some elaborately. Some simply.

The Salon is intended to be interesting, fun and casual. It's not a class, though it can be informative and enlightening. We hope that no one feels intimidated by the topics, the conversations or the participants. We hope that everyone feels enriched.

CEUs are offered to MFTs & LCSWs. There is no charge to attend a Salon. There is a $20 fee for 3 CEUs for licensed MFTs & LCSWs. Trainees and Interns can obtain a CEU certificate at no charge to document their BBS Education hours.

If you have any questions or would like to join our Postmodern Salon list, please contact me.

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Frank Baird, LMFT | Psychotherapy & Life Coaching

Frank Baird offers psychotherapy, counseling and life coaching for individuals, couples, families, groups, organizations and bands. His office is in Westlake Village. Specialties include treatment for couple's relationships, adolescents, families, mindfulness, and sexual assault recovery.