Philip Ruddy is a Los Angeles-based depth psychotherapist, who previously spent fifteen years as a writer, producer and development executive in Hollywood. He now works with writers, artists and performers, helping them explore and transcend creative blocks, anxiety, depression, and the unique stressors of the film and television industry. He can be reached via his website ActivelyImagine.com.
If you missed Part 1, you can listen here.
In this episode, Philip discusses:
-The importance of his clients being sober when coming in for treatment so that they aren’t “unconscious” during the process.
-Why creative people rely on drugs or alcohol to subdue their minds from the constant thoughts, and healthier ways for them to disengage.
-An extremely disheartening experience that he went through in the past, which helps him to relate to his clients today.
-The journey that he took after having his original screenplay taken, which led him to becoming a psychotherapist.
-His masters thesis on transcending writer’s block based on Active Imagination.
-The concept of the “wounded healer.”
-His advice for someone who wants to open a dialogue with his or her blocks.
-How the subconscious part of your psyche that will hold you back from doing work will often have insights that your conscious mind isn’t aware of.
-The importance of creating a friendly and welcoming dialogue with your block and treating it like a guest in your house.
Philip’s Final Push will inspire you to go forth on your Hero’s Journey!
Quotes:
“I found that after that experience, I really began to shut down as a writer.”
“I just looked around and I thought I have found my tribe.”
“Going into film production is kind of like the French Foreign Legion. You can literally work 24/7. That job is never over.”
“I went through it myself — that is why I’m able to help others.”
“Sometimes the most effective healers are the ones that have been injured themselves.”
“Don’t invite your critic in while you’re creating.”
Links mentioned:
“The Artist’s Way” by Julia Cameron
“The Red Book” by Carl Jung
“Finding Meaning in the Second Half of Life: How to Finally, Really Grow Up” by James Hollis
“An Evening with Ray Bradbury – 2001” (YouTube)
“The Hero’s Journey… For Writers, Artists & Performers” (from Philip’s blog)
Connect with Philip:
