Example psychotherapy dissertation topic 6:

‘Regimes of truth’: Their place in psychotherapy with adults in leadership positions.

Foucault (1977) saw truth as a subjective concept, and found it to be a multi-faceted notion within the varied configurations of power. Those who are in power – whether in business, or political positions – are frequently aware of the subjectivity of truth, and the need to understand how they use it in their own leadership positions. This dissertation reflects on the role of psychotherapy in assisting those in power to become more self-aware and to exercise power in a less autocratic manner. Additionally, it explores how leaders manage their personal relationships and whether the exercise of power is all-encompassing.

Suggested initial topic reading:

• Foucault, M. (1977). ‘Truth and power’. In, Foucault, M. (Gordon, C. ed.), Power/knowledge: Selected interviews & other writings 1972-1977. New York: Pantheon Books, pp. 109-133.
• Hills, H.I., Carlstrom, A. and Evanow, M. (2001). ‘Consulting with men in business and industry’. In, Brooks, G.R. and Good, G.E. (eds). The new handbook of psychotherapy and counseling with men: A comprehensive guide to settings, problems, and treatment approaches, Vols 1 & 2. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass, pp. 126-145.
• Sandler, C. (2010). ‘Working with business leaders and their teams’. British Journal of Psychotherapy, vol. 26, 186-191.