Under the theme “Connecting, Networking, and Mobilizing Resources to Build Resilience in Challenging Times,” our network of trauma specialists met in June. After all, even professionals who work in trauma care and support people experiencing distress need places where they can recharge, exchange professional insights, and support one another. We wanted to put this into practice in a very practical way.
Networking and Professional Exchange
At the wonderful Labenbachhof—which glows especially brightly in the early summer sun and whose surroundings exude tranquility and beauty—we had time to meet and get to know one another. Time and again, qualified professionals join our network. They contribute their experience and expertise, thereby supporting our work.
As a small organization, we rely on this collaboration to maintain the diversity of our work. At the same time, the network should not operate in only one direction. During an in-depth professional exchange, the concerns and questions of all network members were discussed and examined, and ideas were gathered and further developed. That’s why we always set aside enough time for this during our meetings.
Strengthening Our Own Resources
This time, the focus was on strengthening our own resources and capabilities. To that end, we focused on our bodies and practiced the “Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises” (TRE) method to release tension and experience relaxation.
In a creative session, we made collages based on the question: “What do you want to remember on June 20, 2027? How do you want to feel, and what do you want to have accomplished by then?” These questions provided wonderful inspiration for creative thinking and being. In a guided visualization, we also encountered our personal spirit guide or power animal.
A colleague’s feedback summed up just how successful this initiative was: “I always love coming back here! For me, this weekend has become my personal time to recharge.” That’s exactly what we wanted to achieve with our networking event.
Outlook: Integrative Community Therapy Starting in 2027
Another highlight of our network meeting was a session on Integrative Community Therapy (ICT). This community-oriented approach empowers people by creating a safe space for exchange, mutual listening, and the mobilization of their own resources.
Integrative Community Therapy will therefore become part of our continuing education program. Starting in 2027, we will be offering professional training in this method for the first time, and we look forward to exploring this resource-oriented approach in greater depth together with other professionals.
Regina Miehling, Projects in Germany, Seminars and Professional Training
