Skip to content
An image of the front and back of a card, the back has a reflected image of a geode cracked open; the front says "Disruptive Empathy: A relational practice that helps us drop narratives of who we should or should not be. It reminds us that what we experience as repugnant is also human and may be a disowned part of our selves. Embracing uncertainty invites healthy conflict and creates possibility.

Disruptive Empathy

What a week. A platform that endangers transgender youth and adults, decimates reproductive freedom, and glorifies violence has been elevated to leadership in all branches of our federal government. Where do we even start (other than pragmatic preparations to keep our loved ones safe)? How we navigate this period isn’t… Read More »Disruptive Empathy

A picture of two playing cards from our RCT Toybox, one with the words Mutuality is the shared experience of affecting one another. It is a joining based on all participants being open to the relationship. Mutuality requires emotional availability and willingness to change. It differs from reciprocity, which is a transactional expectation. The other card has a silhouette of a child and an adult reaching for each other

The Practice Of Mutuality

Relational-Cultural Theory’s take on mutuality is what we need right now. The overwhelm of politics makes it easy to disconnect—not only from others but from the broader currents of culture that shape our lives. Relational-Cultural Theory (RCT), which emphasizes that people grow through and toward connection, suggests a powerful antidote:… Read More »The Practice Of Mutuality

A drawing of an ecosystem

Mindful Flow in RCT

Therapeutic Flow in RCT: a mindful approach to healing Relational-Cultural Theory (RCT) views therapy as a complex flow that emphasizes presence over manualized interventions. Therapy involves establishing a safe relationship where the client feels a sense of supported vulnerability. The beginning sessions involve affirming the client’s experience and coping strategies… Read More »Mindful Flow in RCT

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… Read More »Relational-Cultural Therapy: Getting Started

a picture with a bunch of question marks

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.

A picture of children's drawings including the phrase "unicorns rule the world"

Constructing RCT

Just as RCT challenges the cultural imperatives of individuation that isolate marginalized people, it challenges us to expand our understanding of human connection beyond the gender binary.

Transforming Together: Gender as Work in Progress

These are some excellent starting points, with the caveat that we are all works in progress, as is the journey into a deeper understanding of gender identity. Best practices involve continuing to learn and grow, allowing curiosity and connection to guide you.