Maria Kontarini

The Psychotherapist in Times of Moral and Social Crisis

Exploring neutrality, responsibility, and human presence in psychotherapy

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We are living in a time marked by polarization, disinformation, war, social fragmentation, loneliness, identity struggles, and increasing distrust between people and groups. These developments do not remain outside the therapy room — they affect us, our clients, and the therapeutic relationship itself.

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In this workshop, we will explore together how we, as pychotherapists:

• perceive our role and responsibilities in the context of these wider social and moral challenges. What does therapeutic presence mean in such times?

• What happens to the idea of neutrality when human suffering is shaped by larger societal realities?

• How are we personally impacted, and where do we find the resources to remain open, ethical, and relationally grounded?

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Rather than searching for fixed answers, this workshop aims to create a reflective and dialogical space in which we can think together about how to meet these phenomena — both within ourselves and in the therapeutic encounter.

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​📅Monday, 22nd of June 2026        18:00-20:00 UK time        On Zoom

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REGISTER→

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This workshop was inspired by insights from two previous workshops on the Neutrality of the Psychotherapist. I also wrote an article reflecting on these themes. You can read it here→

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When Politics Enter the Therapy Room – The “Neutral” Psychotherapist?
Exploring Political Difference, Ethical Presence, and Trust in Psychotherapy

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Politics and strong opinions inevitably show up in therapy sessions—but how do therapists navigate these moments ethically and effectively? Can we ever truly remain “neutral,” and when might sharing our perspective actually strengthen trust and understanding?

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This interactive two-hour workshop offers psychotherapists a reflective space to:

• Explore what neutrality really means in practice

• Navigate political and ethical differences with clients

• Learn when self-disclosure can strengthen the therapeutic relationship

• Turn moments of disagreement into opportunities for dialogue and connection​

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​📅Monday, 30th of April & 11th May 2026   |    On Zoom​​​

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REGISTER NOT POSSIBLE - PAST EVENTS 

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The reflections that inspired the workshop are explored more deeply in my Substack article →

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​I’ve also created a short 2-minute video you can watch here →​​​​​​​