Category: Relational-Cultural Theory

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The Central Relational Paradox

Relational-Cultural Therapy combats the central relational paradox by creating relationships where individuals can bring their full selves into connection, fostering healing through mutual empathy and authenticity.

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One True Thing

One True Thing offers a way to navigate challenging conversations and disagreements without sacrificing integrity, shutting down, or lashing out.

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International Center for Growth in Connection

Gender Expansive RCT

Relational-Cultural Theory embraces trans and gender-expansive identities and implores others to commit to an expansive understanding of gender.

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Relational-Cultural Therapy: Getting Started

Our upcoming free RCT Learning Circle will be announced at our Relational Summit in September. For more information, click here! Join us for an Relational-Cultural Therapy training session covering relational assessment, initial sessions, and consultation calls. We assess current and past relational patterns and skills, barriers to connection, and personal and/or cultural trauma, while creating a safe place for our relationship to grow. RCT seeks to initiate healing through growth-fostering relationships. As clinicians, we need […]

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Essentially RCT

These essentialist beliefs not only oversimplify gender but create a social ladder where some are seen as ‘more correct’ or ‘normal’ than others, impacting how we connect with each other. RCT thrives in complexity and challenges. It encourages us to explore tough concepts and dismantle social hierarchies, including those born from essentialist viewpoints.

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CARE Assessment

The CARE assessment, by Dr. Amy Banks, is a practical way to apply Relational-Cultural Therapy to your life by answering 20 short questions.

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a picture of a hexagon card with the word Supported Vulnerability at the top, followed by definitions: Supported Vulnerability is the feeling that one's ability to authentically represent themself will be supported and held with caring and compassion. While in a state of stress, personal vulnerability increases, as does the need to enter into a more supportive relationships. Dependability, respect, care, and empathic listening contribute to this sense of security.

Supported Vulnerability

Supported Vulnerability is a foundational concept in RCT. It refers to the conditions that allow emotional risks within a relationship, trusting the other person to respond with empathy and acceptance.

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Behind the eye roll

Irritability in teens is a common symptom of mental health challenges. It can be a catchall for the intense emotions of puberty and social changes, a protective mechanism, or the means of expressing their feelings that feels most familiar and accessible to them. It’s usually a sign that they are suffering, and are asking for help, they’re just doing it in a way that makes it challenging to reach through it.

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Therapish

Not everyone needs therapy, but everyone benefits from healthy connection!

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2022-2023 Cadre on Caring

The Relational Cadre is a diverse group of humans who are invited to explore aspects of a central theme through the lens of Relational Cultural Theory (RCT). Using an unconference format, participants will be provided a prompt encompassing this year’s theme—Caring—that will be discussed in small breakout groups, sharing those insights when returning to the larger group. Cadre members are encouraged to apply the theme to their own interests, expertise, and projects between sessions. As […]

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