Memory Book for Dr. Louis Ormont
Share your memories and donate in the name of Dr. Louis Ormont



Candle

From the moment I entered group with Lou my life began to change in ways I still think miraculous. I worked with Lou for seven years (1986 to 1993). The relationships I developed within the group became my closest. This group experience strengthened me and instilled trust. I became a better therapist. My creativity became dynamic and my confidence grew. Sometimes I felt like a little kid - he was magical to me. I recognize it was acceptance of me, and his ability to see me in a way I needed to be seen that made all the difference.

I recently learned of Lou's death - and I was shocked. Lou, I miss you. I loved watching the transformation of others working with you - you had a gift. As much as I believe the group would not like to hear me say this, i will anyway. Lou - you had a great ability to impart love and that is all there really is anyway. I will always remember you, and I know you exist somewhere. Hope you're having fun - thank you Lou.


Posted by: Veronica Cole    May 09, 2009


I was in one of Lou's groups from approx. 1968-1972. Lou had many "sayings" to live one's life by. One of them was: "If you don't like your environment than change it" Here is an example of how I followed this "sage recommendation": At that time I was living and working in New York City. My company wanted me to move to Washington, D.C. I did not want to leave Lou's group or my finance. So here is what we worked out. My group of 12 were willing to move the group from Wednesday at 11:00 am to Friday at 9:00am. Everyone changed, even two members who complained about it. That everyone agreed absolutely amazed me. I was overcome with emotion that everyone was willing to make the change. Then I went to my supervisor and told him I was prepared to go provided I got three things: (1) company-paid airfare round trip between N.Y. and Washington plus the cab fares to and from the airports each week, (2)company-paid efficiency apartment in Washington [I kept my N.Y. apartment] and (3) pay raise. I got #1&2, and half of # three. I had made up my mind to quit the company if I did not get what I wanted. I did not tell this to my supervisor, because I felt that making a threat would be counterproductive. But I do think that he sensed emotionally that I would do this. I chose the 9am time because as part of the deal the company wanted me to visit there at 1:00pm on the Fridays I made the trip. So, I took a late Thursday flight every week to be able to be at the 9:00am group. This arrangement continued for about two years until I moved to Houston, Texas, where I live now. This was too far to make weekly trips.


Posted by: Stuart Lerner - Houston, TX   Feb 18, 2009




Dr. Louis Ormont
Dr. Louis Ormont

Pioneer in the field of group psychotherapy