Psychoanalytic Reading Group
Hosted by Dr. Kelsy Richardson
Read. Reflect. Discuss. Bring theory to life.
Psychoanalytic writing offers an extraordinarily rich way of understanding people—but it isn't always easy to tackle alone.
Rather than simply working through a book chapter by chapter, the group creates space to slow down, wrestle with ideas together, ask questions, and connect what we are reading to the realities of clinical practice. Dr. Richardson helps participants make complex psychoanalytic concepts more accessible while exploring how theory can inform the way we understand our clients, ourselves, and what happens within the therapeutic relationship.
Kelsy Richardson, PhD
Dr. Kelsy Richardson is passionate about training clinicians in Psychodynamic Theory, with a particular emphasis on Object-Relations. Her joy lies in hearing clinicians discuss challenging cases, helping them view these cases through a fresh lens, and collaboratively exploring and implementing new ways to conceptualize and approach treatment.
Kelsy Richardson, PhD (PSY 34571) facilitates weekly Psychoanalytic Reading Groups for clinicians and clinicians-in-training who want to deepen their understanding of psychodynamic and psychoanalytic theory in a collaborative, engaging environment.
Interested in joining? Email Dr. Richardson at drkelsyr@gmail.com to secure your spot.
Who Is this Reading Group For?
The reading group is designed for psychologists, psychiatrists, MFTs, PCCs, clinical social workers, associates, graduate students, and other mental health professionals interested in psychoanalytic and psychodynamic thinking.
You do not need an extensive background in psychoanalytic theory. Whether you are relatively new to psychodynamic thinking or have been reading psychoanalytic literature for years, the goal is to create a space where clinicians can remain curious, ask questions, and learn alongside one another.
When Will it Begin?
The next Psychoanalytic Reading Group will begin in January 2027 and meet weekly.
The specific day and time will be announced as the group approaches. Space will be limited to preserve an interactive environment where participants can meaningfully engage with the material and with one another.
What is the Cost?
Cost: $30 per meeting
Create Your Own Reading Group
Already have a group of people who want to learn together?
Dr. Richardson is also available to facilitate private Psychoanalytic Reading Groups for practices, training cohorts, colleagues, graduate students, or other groups who would like to study together.
Groups can be organized around a particular area of psychoanalytic thought or around a book selected by your group. Dr. Richardson can also help recommend readings based on your group's interests, level of experience, and goals.
Whether your group wants to explore foundational psychoanalytic theory, Object Relations, personality and character, case formulation, technique, or a particular psychoanalytic author, the reading group can be tailored to create a learning experience that fits your community.
Have a group or a book in mind? Reach out to Dr. Richardson to discuss creating a reading group tailored to you.
Sign Up Now or Reach Out with Any Questions!
Testimonials
Dr. Richardson is exactly what you want in a supervisor and trainer. She's extensively well-read in psychodynamic theory and research, she's taught and trained hundreds of students during her years as a professor, and she's a dynamite therapist herself. She approaches others with a balance of honesty and directness, while also being incredibly compassionate and caring. This creates a training atmosphere of safety, clarity, and incredible growth. I can't recommend her and her training program highly enough.
— Dr. Matt Jarvinen (PSY29459), Founder of EmotionFit
I had the privilege of participating in a weekly Psychoanalytic book study with Dr. Richardson for 3 years, and it was a salient feature in my development as a clinician in numerous ways. Dr. Richardson's deep knowledge of the theory was evident in her ability to consult us on cases, applying Psychoanalytic dimensionality to both conceptualization and clinical practice, and in her ability to make Psychoanalytic concepts accessible, understandable, and balance them with the current clinical world that is very DSM oriented. Dr. Richardson has continued to be an important resource for me clinically and personally as I continue growing as a therapist, and specifically as I continue to grow in this rich clinical theory
— Daniel Fuller (AMFT125243), Former Student
Dr. Richardson is a beloved professor by the countless students she has taught and developed at Point Loma Nazarene University. She has a knack for relating to students in a way that makes them feel seen and cared for, which enables deep learning and transformation in her classes. Students come away with memorable experiences, essential therapy skills, and personal awareness of what they bring to the table as therapists and counselors. Beyond the classroom, she has shared her clinical wisdom with her colleagues, interdisciplinary teams, and the broader community where her knowledge of psychodynamic theory and practice is second to none. I've regularly trusted her to consult about challenging cases in which her eye for dynamic processes would be helpful. She is a gifted educator and consultant.
— Dr. Ben Coleman (PSY27491), Program Director– MA in Clinical Counseling, PLNU