Movie + Discussion Night
Our spring 2019 Movie Nights events focus on the lives of adolescents. Compelling movies depict challenges and reveal young people's worlds in ways that allow us to apply new learning to our work.
Movie + Discussion Night was created and is facilitated by host Carol Becker, PhD. We gather a group of mental health professionals to watch and discuss films focused on how people are affected by stressful life circumstances, family events and polarizing public issues. The film creates an opportunity to learn from the stories and issues presented. Dr. Becker facilitates meaningful discussions about the target educational issues, inviting participants to share diverse experiences and perspectives, with the intention of learning from one another. Participants are asked to specifically address how they will bring what they have learned back to their work in the mental health field. These events are designed to create: • an openness to develop new ways of thinking about complex, nuanced and often divisive issues that affect our clients • an experience of having a facilitated conversation with ground rules that allows for civil discourse, new learning and are practices that can be used in individual, couple, family and larger systems work Schedule of Movie + Discussion Night Events 6:45 pm - 7:00 pm – Introductions 7:00 pm – 8:45 pm– View the film BREAK 9:00 pm – 9:15 pm – Introduce and explain parameters for facilitated discussion, ground rules and process 9:15 pm - 9:45 pm – Carol Becker, PhD facilitates a discussion about what participants are learning and reflecting upon with regard to the issues in the film that are relevant to their practice in the field of mental health 9:45 pm – 10:00 pm – Participants discuss what ideas they will bring back to their work and how they will do that Target Audience |
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These learning events are designed for helping professionals including, but not limited to, social workers, psychologists, mental health counselors, marriage & family therapists, and nurses. We choose films and design the learning methodology to further develop beginning, intermediate, and advanced helping professionals by expanding their knowledge base on important individual and societal issues for direct practice, supervision, and management positions.
Cost
$55 to participate in the learning discussion and receive 3 CEs
Clinician United, NEAFAST and Black Therapists Rock Members: discounted fee of $45. Contact us for discount code
Please register in advance to save a seat. Our venue is limited to 15 participants.
Clinician United, NEAFAST and Black Therapists Rock Members: discounted fee of $45. Contact us for discount code
Please register in advance to save a seat. Our venue is limited to 15 participants.
Event Policies
Details about grievances, accessibility and other information here
Movie Night CEs
Participants MUST attend 100% of the program to earn the 3 CEs approved. CE certificates will be given at the end of the event after you are fully paid and have completed the evaluation form. Details for approved professions: 3 CEs have been approved for licensed Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, Psychology and Nursing professionals by Commonwealth Educational Seminars. Licensed Mental Health Counselors can earn 3 CEs as Therapy Training Boston has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6707. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. Therapy Training Boston is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs. For more detailed information about CEs, read this.
Movie Night + Discussion Schedule, Content and Registration
Ben Is Back
Thursday, September 5, 2019 - 6:45 pm to 10:00 pm, 3 CEs
Location: 203 Arlington Street, Suite 4, Watertown MA
Christmas can be emotionally fraught no matter who you are or what family you grew up in, but it can be especially tricky when you’re in addiction treatment, and even more so when you have a tenuous grasp on your recovery. This is supposed to be such a joyous time—the most wonderful time of the year, even—but expectations and regrets can serve as triggers, adding to the anxiety of the season. The film depicts this phenomenon with intimacy and empathy in “Ben Is Back,” about a 19 year old (Lucas Hedges) with an opioid addiction who leaves rehab for 24 hours—supposedly with the encouragement of his sponsor—to visit his family on Christmas Eve. Ben's mother, Holly (Julia Roberts), is relieved and welcoming but wary of her son staying clean. Over a turbulent 24 hours, new truths are revealed, and a mother's undying love for her son is tested as she does everything in her power to keep him safe. Ben is Back also stars Courtney B. Vance (The People V. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story) and Kathryn Newton (Lady Bird). Lessons about the family dynamics involved when opioid addiction affects a young adult will be identified in the discussion about the film. Ways mental health professionals can effectively intervene in these situations will be learned.
Thursday, September 5, 2019 - 6:45 pm to 10:00 pm, 3 CEs
Location: 203 Arlington Street, Suite 4, Watertown MA
Christmas can be emotionally fraught no matter who you are or what family you grew up in, but it can be especially tricky when you’re in addiction treatment, and even more so when you have a tenuous grasp on your recovery. This is supposed to be such a joyous time—the most wonderful time of the year, even—but expectations and regrets can serve as triggers, adding to the anxiety of the season. The film depicts this phenomenon with intimacy and empathy in “Ben Is Back,” about a 19 year old (Lucas Hedges) with an opioid addiction who leaves rehab for 24 hours—supposedly with the encouragement of his sponsor—to visit his family on Christmas Eve. Ben's mother, Holly (Julia Roberts), is relieved and welcoming but wary of her son staying clean. Over a turbulent 24 hours, new truths are revealed, and a mother's undying love for her son is tested as she does everything in her power to keep him safe. Ben is Back also stars Courtney B. Vance (The People V. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story) and Kathryn Newton (Lady Bird). Lessons about the family dynamics involved when opioid addiction affects a young adult will be identified in the discussion about the film. Ways mental health professionals can effectively intervene in these situations will be learned.
Learning Objectives
Participants will be able:
1. To describe the impact of drug abuse on family relationships.
2. To identify a minimum of three challenges for adolescents’ in recovery.
3. To define practices needed to utilize a dialogic methodology that includes all voices inviting clinicians to share their perspectives about difficult and divisive issues in a “safe/respectful” exchange so that they can use these practices in their work.
Reviews:
“this film is not so much about the stuff of returns and redemption as it is a cautionary tale about all the ways addiction corrupts and destroys. Ben Is Back clearly exclaims that addiction singes everything and everyone in an addict's orbit. That truth makes this film emotionally moving, and maybe even … important.” Bob Hoose, Plugged In
“Roberts gives one of the most powerful performances of her career as a devoted mother, opposite the equally excellent Hedges, in this emotional addiction drama.” Sandie Angulo Chen, Common Sense Media
Participants will be able:
1. To describe the impact of drug abuse on family relationships.
2. To identify a minimum of three challenges for adolescents’ in recovery.
3. To define practices needed to utilize a dialogic methodology that includes all voices inviting clinicians to share their perspectives about difficult and divisive issues in a “safe/respectful” exchange so that they can use these practices in their work.
Reviews:
“this film is not so much about the stuff of returns and redemption as it is a cautionary tale about all the ways addiction corrupts and destroys. Ben Is Back clearly exclaims that addiction singes everything and everyone in an addict's orbit. That truth makes this film emotionally moving, and maybe even … important.” Bob Hoose, Plugged In
“Roberts gives one of the most powerful performances of her career as a devoted mother, opposite the equally excellent Hedges, in this emotional addiction drama.” Sandie Angulo Chen, Common Sense Media
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Or Download and Fill Out the Mail in Registration form:
Mail in Registration Form (.docx) |
Policies:
For all event policies, including detailed CE information and special accommodations, read this.
For all event policies, including detailed CE information and special accommodations, read this.
The Hate U Give
Thursday, October 10, 2019 - 6:45 pm to 10:00 pm, 3 CEs
Location: 203 Arlington Street, Suite 4, Watertown MA
Starr Carter is constantly switching between two worlds: the poor, mostly black, neighborhood where she lives and the rich, mostly white, prep school she attends. The uneasy balance between these worlds is shattered when Starr witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood best friend Khalil at the hands of a police officer. Now, facing pressures from all sides of the community, Starr must find her voice and stand up for what's right. THE HATE U GIVE is based on the critically acclaimed New York Times bestseller by Angie Thomas and stars Amandla Stenberg as Starr, with Russell Hornsby, Regina Hall, Common, Anthony Mackie and Issa Rae. Lessons will be learned that apply to working with people affected by the intersection of racial, cultural and socioeconomic identities, with violence targeted toward young black men and the pressure on survivors/witnesses of these violent crimes.
Thursday, October 10, 2019 - 6:45 pm to 10:00 pm, 3 CEs
Location: 203 Arlington Street, Suite 4, Watertown MA
Starr Carter is constantly switching between two worlds: the poor, mostly black, neighborhood where she lives and the rich, mostly white, prep school she attends. The uneasy balance between these worlds is shattered when Starr witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood best friend Khalil at the hands of a police officer. Now, facing pressures from all sides of the community, Starr must find her voice and stand up for what's right. THE HATE U GIVE is based on the critically acclaimed New York Times bestseller by Angie Thomas and stars Amandla Stenberg as Starr, with Russell Hornsby, Regina Hall, Common, Anthony Mackie and Issa Rae. Lessons will be learned that apply to working with people affected by the intersection of racial, cultural and socioeconomic identities, with violence targeted toward young black men and the pressure on survivors/witnesses of these violent crimes.
Learning Objectives:
Participants will be able:
1. To examine the impact of police violence on young Black men and their families and communities.
2. To identify the dilemma for adolescents living in two worlds defined by different racial identities.
3. To define practices needed to utilize a dialogic methodology that includes all voices inviting clinicians to share their perspectives about difficult and divisive issues in a “safe/respectful” exchange so that they can use these practices in their work.
Reviews:
“The Hate U Give truly impresses with its unflinching power and admirable complexity…the film forgoes easy answers about assimilation and the different forms racism can take. At each turn, Stenberg is utterly magnetic, able to nimbly hop from sitcom lightness to wrenching emotion. Russell Hornsby, as Starr’s reformed gang-member dad, is similarly commanding.” Empire Online
Participants will be able:
1. To examine the impact of police violence on young Black men and their families and communities.
2. To identify the dilemma for adolescents living in two worlds defined by different racial identities.
3. To define practices needed to utilize a dialogic methodology that includes all voices inviting clinicians to share their perspectives about difficult and divisive issues in a “safe/respectful” exchange so that they can use these practices in their work.
Reviews:
“The Hate U Give truly impresses with its unflinching power and admirable complexity…the film forgoes easy answers about assimilation and the different forms racism can take. At each turn, Stenberg is utterly magnetic, able to nimbly hop from sitcom lightness to wrenching emotion. Russell Hornsby, as Starr’s reformed gang-member dad, is similarly commanding.” Empire Online
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Or Download and Fill Out the Mail in Registration form:
Mail in Registration Form (.docx) |
Policies:
Please arrive by 6:45 pm to park and get settled before the event starts at 7 pm.
For all event policies, including detailed CE information and special accommodations, read this.
Please arrive by 6:45 pm to park and get settled before the event starts at 7 pm.
For all event policies, including detailed CE information and special accommodations, read this.
Boy Erased
Thursday, December 19, 2019 - 6:45 pm to 10:00 pm, 3 CEs
Location: 203 Arlington Street, Suite 4, Watertown MA
"Boy Erased" tells the story of Jared (Hedges), the son of a Baptist pastor in a small American town, who is outed to his parents (Kidman and Crowe) at age 19. Jared is faced with an ultimatum: attend a conversion therapy program - or be permanently exiled and shunned by his family, friends, and faith. Boy Erased is the true story of one young man's struggle to find himself while being forced to question every aspect of his identity. Lessons will be learned about working to minimize the negative the impact that fundamentalist interpretation of religion can have on family relationships and identity of youth who identify as gay.
Learning Objectives
Participants will be able:
1. To examine the impact of conversion therapy when used as a treatment for homosexuality on a young boy and his family.
2. To identify the harm done when parents cannot accept sexual orientation as a reality and endanger the life of the child.
3. To define practices needed to utilize a dialogic methodology that includes all voices inviting clinicians to share their perspectives about difficult and divisive issues in a “safe/respectful” exchange so that they can use these practices in their work.
Reviews:
“To its great credit, "Boy Erased" never reduces Jared's parents to monolithic, backwards-thinking caricatures.” Richard Roeper, Chicago Sun Times
“An accomplished and mature film, with an assured directorial hand from Edgerton. Hedges embodies the effects of moral conflict perfectly, and crowns what is a fine, necessary film.” Rich Phippen, HeyUGuys
Thursday, December 19, 2019 - 6:45 pm to 10:00 pm, 3 CEs
Location: 203 Arlington Street, Suite 4, Watertown MA
"Boy Erased" tells the story of Jared (Hedges), the son of a Baptist pastor in a small American town, who is outed to his parents (Kidman and Crowe) at age 19. Jared is faced with an ultimatum: attend a conversion therapy program - or be permanently exiled and shunned by his family, friends, and faith. Boy Erased is the true story of one young man's struggle to find himself while being forced to question every aspect of his identity. Lessons will be learned about working to minimize the negative the impact that fundamentalist interpretation of religion can have on family relationships and identity of youth who identify as gay.
Learning Objectives
Participants will be able:
1. To examine the impact of conversion therapy when used as a treatment for homosexuality on a young boy and his family.
2. To identify the harm done when parents cannot accept sexual orientation as a reality and endanger the life of the child.
3. To define practices needed to utilize a dialogic methodology that includes all voices inviting clinicians to share their perspectives about difficult and divisive issues in a “safe/respectful” exchange so that they can use these practices in their work.
Reviews:
“To its great credit, "Boy Erased" never reduces Jared's parents to monolithic, backwards-thinking caricatures.” Richard Roeper, Chicago Sun Times
“An accomplished and mature film, with an assured directorial hand from Edgerton. Hedges embodies the effects of moral conflict perfectly, and crowns what is a fine, necessary film.” Rich Phippen, HeyUGuys
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Or Download and Fill Out the Mail in Registration form:
Mail in Registration Form (.docx) |
Past Movie Nights
Skate Kitchen
Thursday, June 6, 2019 - 6:45 pm to 10:00 pm, 3 CEs
Location: 203 Arlington Street, Suite 4, Watertown MA
This film examines the world of girls who skateboard. In the first narrative feature from The Wolfpack director Crystal Moselle, Camille, an introverted teenage skateboarder (newcomer Rachelle Vinberg) from Long Island, meets and befriends an all-girl, New York City-based skateboarding crew called Skate Kitchen. She falls in with the in-crowd, has a falling-out with her mother, and falls for a mysterious skateboarder guy (Jaden Smith), but a relationship with him proves to be trickier to navigate than a kickflip. Writer/director Crystal Moselle immersed herself in the lives of skater girls and worked closely with them, resulting in the film's authenticity, which combines poetic, atmospheric filmmaking and hypnotic skating sequences. Skate Kitchen precisely captures the experience of women in male-dominated spaces and tells a story of a girl who learns the importance of camaraderie and self-discovery.
The film will be used as a vehicle to learn more about teenage girls through their skateboarding culture with lessons about young woman’s experiences in typically male dominated society. The process of separation and individuation that characterizes adolescent girl’s development will be illuminated through the character’s processes of self-discovery and the importance of a community of connection among peers. Participants will develop more effective ways to address developmental issues for adolescent girls in their work settings. These include helping adolescent girls create a healthy identity which will support improved self-esteem, resilience and decrease their likelihood for dangerous acting out.
Learning Objectives:
“Less a movie than a visually striking meditation on Being a Girl These Days.” Matthew Lickona, San Diego Reader
“Skate Kitchen conveys the simple, exhilarating thrill of daring to claim social space, and proceeding to occupy it, with defiance and ecstatic grace.”
Ann Hornaday, Washington Post
Thursday, June 6, 2019 - 6:45 pm to 10:00 pm, 3 CEs
Location: 203 Arlington Street, Suite 4, Watertown MA
This film examines the world of girls who skateboard. In the first narrative feature from The Wolfpack director Crystal Moselle, Camille, an introverted teenage skateboarder (newcomer Rachelle Vinberg) from Long Island, meets and befriends an all-girl, New York City-based skateboarding crew called Skate Kitchen. She falls in with the in-crowd, has a falling-out with her mother, and falls for a mysterious skateboarder guy (Jaden Smith), but a relationship with him proves to be trickier to navigate than a kickflip. Writer/director Crystal Moselle immersed herself in the lives of skater girls and worked closely with them, resulting in the film's authenticity, which combines poetic, atmospheric filmmaking and hypnotic skating sequences. Skate Kitchen precisely captures the experience of women in male-dominated spaces and tells a story of a girl who learns the importance of camaraderie and self-discovery.
The film will be used as a vehicle to learn more about teenage girls through their skateboarding culture with lessons about young woman’s experiences in typically male dominated society. The process of separation and individuation that characterizes adolescent girl’s development will be illuminated through the character’s processes of self-discovery and the importance of a community of connection among peers. Participants will develop more effective ways to address developmental issues for adolescent girls in their work settings. These include helping adolescent girls create a healthy identity which will support improved self-esteem, resilience and decrease their likelihood for dangerous acting out.
Learning Objectives:
- To describe the impact of adolescence on girls' needs for autonomy from family, their purpose and connection with like-minded peers in order to better intervene with individuals, families, and larger systems that serve this vulnerable population.
- To use the film to identify the ways adolescent girls create community and purpose in their lives, how this shows up in the work we do and how we can best support teenage girls in clinical settings.
- To utilize a dialogic methodology that includes all voices inviting clinicians to share their perspectives about difficult and divisive issues in a “safe/respectful” exchange so that they can use these practices in their work.
“Less a movie than a visually striking meditation on Being a Girl These Days.” Matthew Lickona, San Diego Reader
“Skate Kitchen conveys the simple, exhilarating thrill of daring to claim social space, and proceeding to occupy it, with defiance and ecstatic grace.”
Ann Hornaday, Washington Post
Three Identical Strangers
Thursday, April 25, 2019 - 6:45 pm to 10:00 pm, 3 CEs
Location: 203 Arlington Street, Suite 4, Watertown MA
This documentary examines the impact of an adoption situation on three young men who discover what they have been missing when they meet as young adults. Three strangers are reunited by astonishing coincidence after being born identical triplets, separated at birth, and adopted by three different families. Their jaw-dropping, feel-good story instantly becomes a global sensation complete with fame and celebrity, however, the fairy-tale reunion sets in motion a series of events that unearth an unimaginable secret -- a secret with radical repercussions for us all. Surreal and surprising, Three Identical Strangers effectively questions the nature of reality and identity.
The documentary film, Three Identical Strangers, will be used as a vehicle to learn more about the impact of nature versus nurture. The purpose is to increase understanding about the effects our system of adoption on children and their biological and adoptive families. The discussion about this film will help participants develop more effective ways to address these issues of identity and belonging in their work settings.
Learning Objectives:
“We... come away with a deeper understanding of both the importance of nature and the awesome importance of loving, sensitive parenting.” Mick LaSalle, San Francisco Chronicle
“Well after the astonishment of its narrative fades, Three Identical Strangers is a movie to make you think twice about your own siblings - and maybe take a long look in the mirror at yourself.” Ty Burr, Boston Globe
Thursday, April 25, 2019 - 6:45 pm to 10:00 pm, 3 CEs
Location: 203 Arlington Street, Suite 4, Watertown MA
This documentary examines the impact of an adoption situation on three young men who discover what they have been missing when they meet as young adults. Three strangers are reunited by astonishing coincidence after being born identical triplets, separated at birth, and adopted by three different families. Their jaw-dropping, feel-good story instantly becomes a global sensation complete with fame and celebrity, however, the fairy-tale reunion sets in motion a series of events that unearth an unimaginable secret -- a secret with radical repercussions for us all. Surreal and surprising, Three Identical Strangers effectively questions the nature of reality and identity.
The documentary film, Three Identical Strangers, will be used as a vehicle to learn more about the impact of nature versus nurture. The purpose is to increase understanding about the effects our system of adoption on children and their biological and adoptive families. The discussion about this film will help participants develop more effective ways to address these issues of identity and belonging in their work settings.
Learning Objectives:
- To describe the impact of adoption and family separation in order to better serve individuals, families and larger systems affected by these circumstances.
- To use the film to identify the ways the issue of nature versus nurture shows up in the work we do and how to effectively bring discussions of identity into client meetings.
- To utilize a dialogic methodology that includes all voices inviting clinicians to share their perspectives about difficult and divisive issues in a “safe/respectful” exchange so that they can use these practices in their work.
“We... come away with a deeper understanding of both the importance of nature and the awesome importance of loving, sensitive parenting.” Mick LaSalle, San Francisco Chronicle
“Well after the astonishment of its narrative fades, Three Identical Strangers is a movie to make you think twice about your own siblings - and maybe take a long look in the mirror at yourself.” Ty Burr, Boston Globe
Eighth Grade
Thursday, March 21, 2019 - 6:45 pm to 10:00 pm, 3 CEs
Location: 203 Arlington Street, Suite 4, Watertown MA
Examines the impact of suburban life in middle school on an introverted thirteen-year-old girl. Kayla endures the tidal wave of contemporary suburban adolescence as she makes her way through the last week of middle school--the end of her thus far disastrous eighth grade year before she begins high school. Eighth Grade takes a look at its titular time period that offers a rare and resounding ring of truth while heralding breakthroughs for writer-director Bo Burnham and captivating star Elsie Fisher. The film deftly encapsulates the awkwardness, angst, self-loathing and reinvention that a teenage girl goes through on the cusp of high school.
The film, Eighth Grade, will be used as a vehicle to learn more about the experiences of being in middle school in current times. The purpose is to increase understanding about the challenges teenage girls have and what they bring to their families, school environments and the mental health professionals with whom they work to help participants develop a deeper understanding to address these issues in their work settings.
Thursday, March 21, 2019 - 6:45 pm to 10:00 pm, 3 CEs
Location: 203 Arlington Street, Suite 4, Watertown MA
Examines the impact of suburban life in middle school on an introverted thirteen-year-old girl. Kayla endures the tidal wave of contemporary suburban adolescence as she makes her way through the last week of middle school--the end of her thus far disastrous eighth grade year before she begins high school. Eighth Grade takes a look at its titular time period that offers a rare and resounding ring of truth while heralding breakthroughs for writer-director Bo Burnham and captivating star Elsie Fisher. The film deftly encapsulates the awkwardness, angst, self-loathing and reinvention that a teenage girl goes through on the cusp of high school.
The film, Eighth Grade, will be used as a vehicle to learn more about the experiences of being in middle school in current times. The purpose is to increase understanding about the challenges teenage girls have and what they bring to their families, school environments and the mental health professionals with whom they work to help participants develop a deeper understanding to address these issues in their work settings.
Learning Objectives:
“Poignantly funny, wrenchingly wise and meltingly beautiful, Eighth Grade is a not-so-small miracle of independent filmmaking.” Joe Morgenstern, Wall Street Journal
“It's rare to see a movie about middle school years that looks and sounds as right as Eighth Grade, a modest charmer... Burnham avoids most of the Mean Girls-style tropes in favor of a more gently humorous and nuanced approach.” Peter Ranier, Christian Science Monitor
“Buoyed by a breakout performance by Elsie Fisher, who exhibits all the uncertainty, angst and trepidation of the awkward teen, Eighth Grade is an endearing and insightful glimpse into the dark recesses of a young mind on the brink of adulthood.” Louise Keller, Urban Cinefile
- To describe the impact of the adolescent phase of life on the mental well-being of teenage girls in order to better serve the individuals, families and larger systems in which they show up.
- To use the film to identify the ways adolescent girls struggle, how this shows up in the work we do and how to best help them in our work settings.
- To utilize a dialogic methodology that includes all voices inviting clinicians to share their perspectives about difficult and divisive issues in a “safe/respectful” exchange so that they can use these practices in their work.
“Poignantly funny, wrenchingly wise and meltingly beautiful, Eighth Grade is a not-so-small miracle of independent filmmaking.” Joe Morgenstern, Wall Street Journal
“It's rare to see a movie about middle school years that looks and sounds as right as Eighth Grade, a modest charmer... Burnham avoids most of the Mean Girls-style tropes in favor of a more gently humorous and nuanced approach.” Peter Ranier, Christian Science Monitor
“Buoyed by a breakout performance by Elsie Fisher, who exhibits all the uncertainty, angst and trepidation of the awkward teen, Eighth Grade is an endearing and insightful glimpse into the dark recesses of a young mind on the brink of adulthood.” Louise Keller, Urban Cinefile
13TH
Thursday, December 6, 2018 - 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm, 3 CEs
Location: 203 Arlington Street, Suite 4, Watertown MA
The title of Ava DuVernay’s documentary refers to the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, which reads “Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States.” The progression from that second qualifying clause to the horrors of mass criminalization and the sprawling American prison industry is laid out by DuVernay with bracing lucidity. With a potent mixture of archival footage and testimony from a dazzling array of activists, politicians, historians, and formerly incarcerated women and men, DuVernay creates a work of grand historical synthesis.
Learning Objectives:
Reviews:
“Prisons are the new plantations!” may seem like sloganeering from a far-left protestor, but DuVernay’s effective film draws a strong, straight line from the abolition of slavery to today’s mass incarceration epidemic, explaining its root cause: money.” – Jordan Hoffman, The Guardian
“I’m a criminal justice reporter, and Ava DuVernay’s new Netflix documentary about mass incarceration shocked me.” – Leon Neyfakh, Slate
Thursday, December 6, 2018 - 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm, 3 CEs
Location: 203 Arlington Street, Suite 4, Watertown MA
The title of Ava DuVernay’s documentary refers to the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, which reads “Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States.” The progression from that second qualifying clause to the horrors of mass criminalization and the sprawling American prison industry is laid out by DuVernay with bracing lucidity. With a potent mixture of archival footage and testimony from a dazzling array of activists, politicians, historians, and formerly incarcerated women and men, DuVernay creates a work of grand historical synthesis.
Learning Objectives:
- Participants will discuss the impact of political and legislative decisions on African Americans in the prison system to better serve individuals, families and larger systems affected by structural racism.
- Participants will use the film to identify the ways African Americans, and other marginalized groups as well as those in the majority, continue to be affected by institutionalized racism, how it shows up in the work we do and how to bring relevant discussions into client meetings.
- Participants will participate in a dialogue format in which they will become acquainted with a methodological approach that includes all voices and invites people to share their experiences and perspectives about difficult and divisive issues in “safe/respectful” conversations such that they can utilize concepts and methods of these practices in their work.
Reviews:
“Prisons are the new plantations!” may seem like sloganeering from a far-left protestor, but DuVernay’s effective film draws a strong, straight line from the abolition of slavery to today’s mass incarceration epidemic, explaining its root cause: money.” – Jordan Hoffman, The Guardian
“I’m a criminal justice reporter, and Ava DuVernay’s new Netflix documentary about mass incarceration shocked me.” – Leon Neyfakh, Slate
CALL ME BY YOUR NAME
Thursday, October 11, 2018 - 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm, 3 CEs
Location: 203 Arlington Street, Suite 4, Watertown MA
In the summer of 1983, in the north of Italy, Elio Perlman, (Timothée Chalamet) a 17-year-old American, spends his days in his family's 17th century villa lazily transcribing music and flirting with his friend Marzia (Esther Garrel). One day Oliver (Armie Hammer), a 24-year-old graduate student working on his doctorate, arrives as the annual summer intern, tasked with helping Elio's father (Michael Stuhlbarg), an eminent professor specializing in Greco-Roman culture. Soon, Elio and Oliver discover a summer that will alter their lives forever.
Learning Objectives:
Reviews:
“Writer James Ivory’s generous, sensitive adaptation of Andre Aciman’s novel reveals these characters and their ever-evolving dynamic in beautifully steady yet detailed fashion. And so when Elio and Oliver finally dare to reveal their true feelings for each other—a full hour into the film—the moment makes you hold your breath with its intimate power, and the emotions feel completely authentic and earned.” – Christy Lemire, rogerebert.com
“As Elio's father says of the art he studies, 'there's not a straight line in any of these statues; they're all curved, as if daring you to desire them.' Call Me By Your Name dares its audience in the same way. It's a swooning new classic and one of the very best films of the year.” – Peter Travers, Rolling Stone
Thursday, October 11, 2018 - 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm, 3 CEs
Location: 203 Arlington Street, Suite 4, Watertown MA
In the summer of 1983, in the north of Italy, Elio Perlman, (Timothée Chalamet) a 17-year-old American, spends his days in his family's 17th century villa lazily transcribing music and flirting with his friend Marzia (Esther Garrel). One day Oliver (Armie Hammer), a 24-year-old graduate student working on his doctorate, arrives as the annual summer intern, tasked with helping Elio's father (Michael Stuhlbarg), an eminent professor specializing in Greco-Roman culture. Soon, Elio and Oliver discover a summer that will alter their lives forever.
Learning Objectives:
- Participants will discuss and recognize the powerful role of family acceptance of same-sex sexual orientation in promoting young peoples’ well-being to better assist families with this process.
- Participants will identify ways to improve treatment of young people coming out as gay.
- Participants will participate in a dialogue format in which they will become acquainted with a methodological approach that includes all voices and invites people to share their experiences and perspectives about difficult and divisive issues in “safe/respectful” conversations such that they can utilize concepts and methods of these practices in their work.
Reviews:
“Writer James Ivory’s generous, sensitive adaptation of Andre Aciman’s novel reveals these characters and their ever-evolving dynamic in beautifully steady yet detailed fashion. And so when Elio and Oliver finally dare to reveal their true feelings for each other—a full hour into the film—the moment makes you hold your breath with its intimate power, and the emotions feel completely authentic and earned.” – Christy Lemire, rogerebert.com
“As Elio's father says of the art he studies, 'there's not a straight line in any of these statues; they're all curved, as if daring you to desire them.' Call Me By Your Name dares its audience in the same way. It's a swooning new classic and one of the very best films of the year.” – Peter Travers, Rolling Stone
THE FLORIDA PROJECT
Thursday, September 6, 2018 - 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm, 3 CEs
Location: 203 Arlington Street, Suite 4, Watertown MA
Set on a stretch of highway just outside the imagined utopia of Disney World, The Florida Project follows six-year-old Moonee (Brooklynn Prince) and her rebellious mother Halley (Bria Vinaite) over the course of a single summer. The two live week to week at “The Magic Castle,” a budget motel managed by Bobby (Willem Dafoe), whose stern exterior hides a deep reservoir of kindness and compassion.
Despite her harsh surroundings, the precocious and ebullient Moonee has no trouble making each day a celebration of life, her endless afternoons overflowing with mischief and grand adventure as she and her ragtag playmates—including Jancey, a new arrival to the area who quickly becomes Moonee’s best friend—fearlessly explore the utterly unique world into which they’ve been thrown. Unbeknownst to Moonee, however, her delicate fantasy is supported by the toil and sacrifice of Halley, who is forced to explore increasingly dangerous possibilities in order to provide for her daughter.
Learning Objectives:
Reviews:
“Scene by scene, it assembles one of the most infectious and thrillingly alive portraits of childhood I've ever seen. Imagine a Sunshine State riff on Los Olvidados or Bicycle Thieves, slathered in sherbet hues and sprinkled with Pop Rocks, and you'll get some sense of the strange, sun-scorched beauty of Baker's accomplishment. He has made a dazzling neorealist sugar rush of a movie.” – Justin Chang, Los Angeles Times
“The Florida Project is honest about the limits of benevolence, and about the wishful thinking that can cloud our understanding of the world. Its final scenes are devastating, and also marvelously ambiguous, full of wonder, fury and clear-eyed self-criticism.” – A. O. Scott, The New York Times
Thursday, September 6, 2018 - 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm, 3 CEs
Location: 203 Arlington Street, Suite 4, Watertown MA
Set on a stretch of highway just outside the imagined utopia of Disney World, The Florida Project follows six-year-old Moonee (Brooklynn Prince) and her rebellious mother Halley (Bria Vinaite) over the course of a single summer. The two live week to week at “The Magic Castle,” a budget motel managed by Bobby (Willem Dafoe), whose stern exterior hides a deep reservoir of kindness and compassion.
Despite her harsh surroundings, the precocious and ebullient Moonee has no trouble making each day a celebration of life, her endless afternoons overflowing with mischief and grand adventure as she and her ragtag playmates—including Jancey, a new arrival to the area who quickly becomes Moonee’s best friend—fearlessly explore the utterly unique world into which they’ve been thrown. Unbeknownst to Moonee, however, her delicate fantasy is supported by the toil and sacrifice of Halley, who is forced to explore increasingly dangerous possibilities in order to provide for her daughter.
Learning Objectives:
- Participants will discuss the impact of poverty on children and parents to better understand, assess and intervene when working with people living with the physical and mental health effects of poverty.
- Participants will use the film and learning discussion to improve their understanding of the effects of poverty on the complexity of mother/daughter and other relationships in these circumstances.
- Participants will participate in a dialogue format in which they will become acquainted with a methodological approach that includes all voices and invites people to share their experiences and perspectives about difficult and divisive issues in “safe/respectful” conversations such that they can utilize concepts and methods of these practices in their work.
Reviews:
“Scene by scene, it assembles one of the most infectious and thrillingly alive portraits of childhood I've ever seen. Imagine a Sunshine State riff on Los Olvidados or Bicycle Thieves, slathered in sherbet hues and sprinkled with Pop Rocks, and you'll get some sense of the strange, sun-scorched beauty of Baker's accomplishment. He has made a dazzling neorealist sugar rush of a movie.” – Justin Chang, Los Angeles Times
“The Florida Project is honest about the limits of benevolence, and about the wishful thinking that can cloud our understanding of the world. Its final scenes are devastating, and also marvelously ambiguous, full of wonder, fury and clear-eyed self-criticism.” – A. O. Scott, The New York Times
THE BIG SICK
Thursday, March 8, 2018 - 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm, 3 CEs
Location: 203 Arlington Street, Suite 4, Watertown MA
Kumail is a Pakistani comic who meets an American graduate student named Emily at one of his stand-up shows. As their relationship blossoms, he soon becomes worried about what his traditional Muslim parents will think of her. When Emily suddenly comes down with an illness that leaves her in a coma, Kumail finds himself developing a bond with her deeply concerned mother and father.
Learning Objectives:
1. Participants will identify tensions that develop between families who immigrate to America (from Pakistan) and the next generation who is born here, in relation to finding a romantic partner.
2. Participants will enhance their knowledge base of inter-generational dynamics in Pakistani families in the U.S. and cross cultural romantic relationships in ways that enhance their understanding and capacity when working with across cultures with sensitivity and humility.
3. Participants will identify ways to facilitate healing through improved family communication and interpersonal understanding when family history and family dynamics affect how people cope in crisis situations and relationships.
4. Participants will participate in a dialogue format in which they will become acquainted with a methodological approach that includes all voices and invites people to share their experiences and perspectives about difficult and divisive issues in a “safe/respectful” conversation such that they can utilize these principles in their work.
Thursday, March 8, 2018 - 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm, 3 CEs
Location: 203 Arlington Street, Suite 4, Watertown MA
Kumail is a Pakistani comic who meets an American graduate student named Emily at one of his stand-up shows. As their relationship blossoms, he soon becomes worried about what his traditional Muslim parents will think of her. When Emily suddenly comes down with an illness that leaves her in a coma, Kumail finds himself developing a bond with her deeply concerned mother and father.
Learning Objectives:
1. Participants will identify tensions that develop between families who immigrate to America (from Pakistan) and the next generation who is born here, in relation to finding a romantic partner.
2. Participants will enhance their knowledge base of inter-generational dynamics in Pakistani families in the U.S. and cross cultural romantic relationships in ways that enhance their understanding and capacity when working with across cultures with sensitivity and humility.
3. Participants will identify ways to facilitate healing through improved family communication and interpersonal understanding when family history and family dynamics affect how people cope in crisis situations and relationships.
4. Participants will participate in a dialogue format in which they will become acquainted with a methodological approach that includes all voices and invites people to share their experiences and perspectives about difficult and divisive issues in a “safe/respectful” conversation such that they can utilize these principles in their work.
THE COLOR PURPLE
Thursday, April 5, 2018 - 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm, 3 CEs
Location: 203 Arlington Street, Suite 4, Watertown MA
An epic tale spanning forty years in the life of Celie (Whoopi Goldberg), an African-American woman living in the South who survives incredible abuse and bigotry. After Celie's abusive father marries her off to the equally debasing "Mister" Albert Johnson (Danny Glover), things go from bad to worse, leaving Celie to find companionship anywhere she can. She perseveres, holding on to her dream of one day being reunited with her sister in Africa. This Oscar-nominated adaptation of the novel by Alice Walker is directed by Stephen Spielberg.
Learning Objectives:
1. Participants will develop compassion for and deeper understanding of the experience of wanting to find one’s own way in the world while being Black in the South in America in order to increase their ability to work well with African Americans.
2. Participants will discuss the impact of abuse on people to improve their perspective and skills in working with clients who have experienced abuse.
3. Participants will discuss the impact of racism on their clients in order to be provide improved support.
4. Participants will participate in a dialogue format in which they will become acquainted with a methodological approach that includes all voices and invites people to share their experiences and perspectives about difficult and divisive issues in a “safe/respectful” conversation such that they can utilize these principles in their work.
Thursday, April 5, 2018 - 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm, 3 CEs
Location: 203 Arlington Street, Suite 4, Watertown MA
An epic tale spanning forty years in the life of Celie (Whoopi Goldberg), an African-American woman living in the South who survives incredible abuse and bigotry. After Celie's abusive father marries her off to the equally debasing "Mister" Albert Johnson (Danny Glover), things go from bad to worse, leaving Celie to find companionship anywhere she can. She perseveres, holding on to her dream of one day being reunited with her sister in Africa. This Oscar-nominated adaptation of the novel by Alice Walker is directed by Stephen Spielberg.
Learning Objectives:
1. Participants will develop compassion for and deeper understanding of the experience of wanting to find one’s own way in the world while being Black in the South in America in order to increase their ability to work well with African Americans.
2. Participants will discuss the impact of abuse on people to improve their perspective and skills in working with clients who have experienced abuse.
3. Participants will discuss the impact of racism on their clients in order to be provide improved support.
4. Participants will participate in a dialogue format in which they will become acquainted with a methodological approach that includes all voices and invites people to share their experiences and perspectives about difficult and divisive issues in a “safe/respectful” conversation such that they can utilize these principles in their work.
LADY BIRD
Thursday, May 3, 2018 - 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm, 3 CEs
Location: 203 Arlington Street, Suite 4, Watertown MA
In her senior year of high school in Sacramento, teenage Lady Bird is set on making her way east to attend college in New York City. With help from her adopted brother, Miguel, she begins putting together a plan for her great escape. Her mom, a California nurse, works tirelessly to keep her family afloat after her husband loses his job. She also maintains a turbulent bond with a teenage daughter who is just like her - loving, strong-willed and deeply opinionated.
Learning Objectives:
1. Participants will discuss tensions between a mother and daughter as the daughter separates from her mother to develop her own sense of self.
2. Participants will use the film to reflect on and articulate ways to improve their treatment of adolescents daughters and their mothers.
3. Participants will use their reactions to the main characters as a way to think about their emotional reactions to client mothers and daughters in intense relationships and identify how to use themselves to facilitate change.
4. Participants will participate in a dialogue format in which they will become acquainted with a methodological approach that includes all voices and invites people to share their experiences and perspectives about difficult and divisive issues in a “safe/respectful” conversation such that they can utilize these practices in their work.
Thursday, May 3, 2018 - 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm, 3 CEs
Location: 203 Arlington Street, Suite 4, Watertown MA
In her senior year of high school in Sacramento, teenage Lady Bird is set on making her way east to attend college in New York City. With help from her adopted brother, Miguel, she begins putting together a plan for her great escape. Her mom, a California nurse, works tirelessly to keep her family afloat after her husband loses his job. She also maintains a turbulent bond with a teenage daughter who is just like her - loving, strong-willed and deeply opinionated.
Learning Objectives:
1. Participants will discuss tensions between a mother and daughter as the daughter separates from her mother to develop her own sense of self.
2. Participants will use the film to reflect on and articulate ways to improve their treatment of adolescents daughters and their mothers.
3. Participants will use their reactions to the main characters as a way to think about their emotional reactions to client mothers and daughters in intense relationships and identify how to use themselves to facilitate change.
4. Participants will participate in a dialogue format in which they will become acquainted with a methodological approach that includes all voices and invites people to share their experiences and perspectives about difficult and divisive issues in a “safe/respectful” conversation such that they can utilize these practices in their work.