The Relational Cultural Theory Psychotherapy Affinity Group
The Relational Cultural Theory Psychotherapy Affinity Group (PAG) is a growing and lively community of mental wellness professionals who study and practice the healing power of connection and the creation of growth-fostering relationships in the clinical application of Relational Cultural Theory. The group invites its members to engage in study and discussion of RCT concepts to advance theoretical understanding and increase practical skill in the art and science of mental health treatment.
PAG has been meeting monthly since October 2021, and was started to provide a place for clinicians interested in RCT to come together in an easily accessible virtual place. Founding members Amy Makice and Roseann Adams joined forces with Myriam Barenbaum and Meenakshi Palaniappan to form a leadership team responsible for generating topic ideas, advertising our monthly programs, welcoming new members, and leading group discussions.
One of the compelling features of PAG is the broad range of experience its members bring to the group. While a number of regular attendees have been studying and practicing RCT for decades, quite a few are just beginning their study of RCT concepts and practice. There is also a mix of genders, ages, and ethnic and cultural backgrounds in the group, offering diverse perspectives and contributing to the richness and breadth of our discussions.
Some of the topics we have covered over the past several years include:
- Moving into Reconnection: How does the therapist recognize, name and act on disconnection in the therapy relationship?
- Working with Controlling and Relational Images
- Transforming Together: RCT and Gender Diversity; and
- Exploring Boundaries, Authenticity and Limitations.
We actively solicit and are open to discussion topic suggestions from group members, and invite members to present case examples to illustrate clinical application of RCT concepts. Both a long-standing and a new member of PAG, share their experience with the group:
“Although I have been a student and practitioner of RCT for more than 30 years,” says Roseann Adams, “I always come away from the monthly PAG meetings with a deepened appreciation of the healing power of basing the therapeutic relationship on the essential task of creating connection with the patient.”
A newer member of the group, Daniel Versweyveld, adds, “What I find energizing about the PAG meetings is my sense that we take relationships seriously. I value the space we take to talk about how we embody RCT concepts in practice. I feel a mutual sense that it matters how we show up for our clients….I think that newcomers and therapists with a lot of experience really relate because we are never done finding ways to be authentic and true to ourselves in a therapeutic setting or in life, more generally. I come away inspired by others’ energy and ideas, and feel safe to be myself.”