Art, Psychology, & Medicine

By Randall D. Ordovich-Clarkson, MD The Suicide  (also known as Satires of Romantic Suicide ) by Spanish artist Leonardo Alenza, 1839 Have you ever stood at the edge of a high place and felt a sudden, unsettling urge to jump, even though you have no desire to harm yourself? Or perhaps while driving, you momentarily imagined swerving into oncoming traffic, only to feel disturbed by the thought moments later. These strange and intrusive impulses are commonly referred to as L’ap

By Dr. O. Clarkson Surgical instruments used in early lobotomies consisted of a leucotome or orbitoclast and a mallet as depicted in this illustration. The era of the lobotomy marks one of the most disturbing chapters in modern medical history, not only because of its cruelty, but also because it emerged from a sense of sheer scientific hubris. For a brief yet troubling period, the deliberate destruction of brain tissue was celebrated as a therapeutic breakthrough. It was a s

Simón Bolívar honoring the flag after the Battle of Carabobo, June 24, 1821 by Venezuelan artist Arturo Michelena   As a Brazilian American, South American culture—including Venezuelan politics—has been close to my heart for nearly two decades. In the mid-2000s, I supported the Hugo Chávez government. At the time, I saw Chávez as a socialist beacon for the Americas—a leader who promised dignity, equity, and economic justice for a region long burdened by corruption and inequal

By Randall D. Ordovich Clarkson, MD Ophelia by John Everett Millais, 1851 Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is often misunderstood, yet it provides valuable insights into human emotion, interpersonal dynamics, and self-regulation. While traditionally a clinical diagnosis, understanding BPD can inform how we interact with others —from friends and family to colleagues and strangers—fostering empathy, patience, and awareness.   A Clinical Overview   BPD is classified under C

By Randall D. Ordovich Clarkson, MD Carl R. Rogers (1902–1987), one of the founders of humanistic psychology, pioneered person-centered psychotherapy—revolutionizing the way we understand personality, relationships, and human potential. Widely regarded as the most influential psychotherapist in history, Rogers’ work continues to shape therapy, education, and organizational practices worldwide. Person-Centered (PC) theory, founded by Carl Ransom Rogers, evolved over 40 years f

By Dr. Randall D. Ordovich-Clarkson, MD Fra Angelico, The Mocking of Christ, 1441 Just as September 11, 2001 was a pivotal moment in...