309 – Therapists as Agents of Hope

Please note: this in-person workshop has reached capacity.

Most of us tend to stay focused on our traditional work of personal healing, trying to steer clear of the struggles in our wider culture. But that outside world keeps impinging on our clients’ lives—and our own. Voter suppression versus stolen elections, banning abortion versus reproductive rights, racial justice versus defending America, climate catastrophe versus ruining the economy, gun control versus more guns—the troubling list is long. As therapists, do we just take sides and hold contempt for the political “other,” therefore becoming part of the polarization? Or can we apply a larger therapeutic vision to the problems of our society? In this workshop you’ll discover how to:

• Explore the connection between your current clinical work and societal polarization and take on a larger vision for our role as therapists that can support our clinical work
• Develop skills in bridging gaps between individuals and groups who see themselves as opposing the political “other”
• Connect with organizations and initiatives where you can use your knowledge and skills for the public good
• Learn to practice de-polarization in your own life