Potatoes and Power: Using Lord of the Rings in Therapy

The stories of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings are classic tales of good vs. evil, teamwork vs. individuality, identity, resilience and power. It is a fascinating study of human psychology, from the hero’s narrative, tales of friendship and rivalry, the unstoppable eventuality of death, and the allure of the shadows. As the Fellowship proceeds through Middle Earth on their journey, they encounter grief and loss, choice points and moments of responsibility and monumental consequence. The series touches on themes of parenthood and love with Denethor and his sons, grief and loss with the death and rebirth of Gandalf, and “what to do with the time given us,” and appreciation of the small things through the lens of the lifestyle of Hobbiton and The Shire. It also alludes to the psychology of resilience. Are the hearts of men truly so easily corrupted? Does the Ring of Power truly have a mind of its own? Or are certain people just more resilient to the power of The Ring? Join us over second breakfast as various mental health professionals and geeks explore the therapeutic applications of The Lord of the Rings. Make sure to keep your feet, "there's no knowing where you might be swept off to".

Learning Objective:

1. Identify three clinical diagnosis Lord of the Rings metaphors can be used in treating.
2. Attendees will learn how character’s stories have been used to help clients explore social skills.
3. This presentation will help attendees develop treatment plans based on concepts found in the Lord of the Rings.
4. Participants will understand how to explain and provide psychoeducation of mental health topics using LOTR