As the world becomes increasingly complex—social upheaval, political strife, and personal stress—it’s tempting to withdraw and attempt to manage alone. However, Relational-Cultural Theory (RCT) emphasizes that connection is not just beneficial, it’s essential. Relationships provide the structure for healing, resilience, and sustainable well-being.
The CARE Assessment, developed by Dr. Amy Banks, offers a framework for understanding how relationships impact mental health. It helps us recognize which connections support our well-being and where relational barriers may exist. The CARE model focuses on four key relational dimensions: Calm, Acceptance, Resonance, and Energy—each playing a critical role in how we experience relationships and emotional health.
Calm: Regulating the Nervous System Through Connection
True connection requires acceptance—being seen and valued for who we are. In relationships that foster acceptance, we can express our needs and emotions with confidence. This builds authenticity and supported vulnerability, allowing us to take emotional risks, knowing that we will be met with understanding rather than judgment.
Acceptance: Feeling Secure in Who You Are
The CARE assessment, developed by Dr. Amy Banks, offers a practical way to understand how our relationships impact our nervous systems and overall mental health. It identifies four key elements essential for relational well-being: Calm, Acceptance, Resonance, and Energy. These qualities are not just ideals; they are the neurological foundation of feeling safe, valued, and engaged in the world.
Resonance: The Power of Mutual Understanding
Resonance is what happens when we truly feel heard and understood. Relationships that embody mutuality allow us to be moved by one another, creating a deep sense of emotional attunement. This type of connection fosters power-with dynamics, where relationships are not about control, but about growth and shared influence.
Energy: The Vitality of Growth-Fostering Relationships
Some relationships inspire and energize us, while others leave us feeling depleted. Growth-fostering relationships generate zest—a sense of excitement, motivation, and engagement in life. When we are in relationships that offer support and encouragement, we feel more capable of taking action, whether that means advocating for change, engaging in creative pursuits, or simply finding joy in daily life.
Join Us to Explore the CARE Model in Community
Understanding the impact of relationships is important, but putting these ideas into practice is where real change happens. Our upcoming two-part group on the CARE assessment provides a free, in-person opportunity to explore these concepts, reflect on your own relationships, and learn how to cultivate relational well-being. Whether you are seeking deeper connection, struggling with stress, or simply curious about how relationships shape mental health, this group will offer practical tools and meaningful conversation.
This group meets twice, and will include an opportunity to complete your own CARE assessment and get started on processing it. We meet March 28 and April 4 from noon-1:00. Best of all, it’s free! Come into the BCC, learn about growth-fostering relationships, and give yourself a little bit of zest! Reach out to us via the contact form below and we’ll help you get registered!
Even if you’re reading this after the group has concluded, the message remains the same: our relationships shape our well-being. In difficult times, we don’t just need self-care—we need relational care. We heal together. <3