An Bulkens, LMFT

Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis for Children, Teens & Adults

(530)321-2970

Chico therapist An Bulkens, LMFT is psychotherapist and counselor in Chico, California.  An Bulkens specializes in psychotherapy and counseling for young children  (toddlers, preschoolers, adolescents) and support for parents, with a special emphasis on  early childhood psychotherapy, and counseling  for preschoolers and Kindergarten aged child.  She also offers parenting skills support. She offers psychoanalytic psychotherapy for adults.  Her approach is grounded in  Lacanian Psychoanalysis. She was also trained as a clinical psychologist in Europe, Belgium.  Her education emphasized developmental psychology and psychoanalytic therapy. 

Reflective Parenting to build a community where each person is respected

November 10, 2016  /  an bulkens

Some parents of young children have called me in the aftermath of the election with the request for a parenting support group consisting of 'like minded' parents, who want to instill values of anti sexism and anti racism in their children.  It has been reported that currently at schools the bullying has increased as this type of behavior has become more acceptable and seems to be normalized.  

In the aftermath of this I am considering to start a new parenting group according to the principles of Reflective Parenting.  It is by being able to keep in mind the mind of the other we are communicating with, rather than being purely 'reactive' that we can build a strong connection with another person and thus a strong community.

The problem at this point is that the groups in our society are so insular and locked up in their own views, identities, that there is not much room for conversation and dialogue between those people. Rather than just being with like minded people, the important step would be to be in conversation with the person who has a different point of view.  Rather than focusing on how other people are the same as us, it might be a good exercise to listen for how they are different.  This kind of mentalizing skill might be what can help parents in their relationship with their children, but can also help bigger communities.  

If you are interested in participating in a group that will help increase reflective functioning. You can contact me at (530) 321-2970.  For more information you can visit the website of reflectivecommunities.org.

An Bulkens    |    Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist    |   MFC 52746

Tel. (530) 321- 2970    |   186 E 12th ST,  Chico, CA 95928