16 Courses in Cardiff delivered Live Online

Sanity is privileged over insanity, which is stigmatized. A therapoet views differences without hierarchy, valuing each unique expression. We aim to explore the lived experiences on irregular perceptions of reality with an open mind. Each Saturday includes: a live dialogue between Prof. Ernesto Spinelli and an International Existential Therapist; a moment to share your thoughts and feelings with the teachers; and a final integration facilitated by Bárbara Godoy. This series of ten dialogues set out to explore the multifaceted dimentions and complexities associated with Existential Therapies. It attempts to engage with various interpretations of insanity through the lens of patients often painful, confounding, and deeply unsettling life experiences. Difference - between Prof. Ernesto Spinelli and Dr. Todd DuBose "Sanity and insanity have been situated in relation to each other on a hierarchical scale that privileges sanity over, beyond, above, and more than its “less than” subjugated copy, insanity. Framed in this way, insanity can only be stigmatized, devalued and pathologized, while sanity is that to which we are to strive, uphold, and genuflect. The therapoet as a phenomenological hermeneutic horizontalizes a spectrum of “sayings of suffering souls”, or “befallings”, which is the originally meaning of “symptom”, not as a pathogen to be excised. Countering supremacist hierarchies of sanity/insanity, or health/illness, the therapoet sees difference, not as deficient, but just different, anew, and not in relation to any centric norm, but just to other differences. The relation to other differences is a relative gradation, whose incomparability resists any kind of nothing-but-ism any more than a fish can be said to be nothing but a squirrel with fins, or dirt as nothing but dry water. The therapoet, therefore, attends to each showing or saying of the suffering soul, sufficient in itself, as it is, in its own way of presencing, by being with it, letting it be, without why.” Dr. Todd DuBose. Dr. Todd DuBose is a world-renowned, Distinguished Full Professor at The Chicago School’s College of Professional Psychology. He teaches philosophical foundations of practices of care, ethics, loss and mourning, psychology and spirituality, psychopathology, among other courses, all from a human science perspective, and with a particular focus on therapoetic care. He is a licensed psychologist, supervisor, consultant, and former chaplain, with over thirty-five years of experience. He holds degrees in continental and comparative philosophy of religion and existential-hermeneutical-phenomenological human science clinical psychology and integrates these approaches as a way of caring for such experiences as the impossible (no way out, boundary or limited situations), extreme experiences (such as psychosis, nihilism, suicidal and homicidal ideation), and the taboo (the places no one wants to go: the unwanted and unacceptable, unsayable, unforgiveable, forbidden, and irreverent). He regularly presents workshops in several international venues such as the Circulo de Estudios en Psicoterapia Existential, in Mexico City, Mexico, the Zhi Mian International Institute of Existential-Humanistic Psychology in Dali, China, and the Centre for Existential Practice in Melbourne, Australia. He is widely published and has written on caring for others in very difficult situations including traumatic loss, surviving the COVID-19 pandemic, and meaninglessness. He has also written a short dialogue with Miles Groth, edited by Loray Daws, called, Dialogues on The Soul of Existential Therapy, published by The Society for Existential Analysis. Most of all, he considers himself simply a fellow human being. Prof. Ernesto Spinelli was Chair of the Society for Existential Analysis between 1993 and 1999 and is a Life Member of the Society. His writings, lectures and seminars focus on the application of existential phenomenology to the arenas of therapy, supervision, psychology, and executive coaching. He is a Fellow of the British Psychological Society (BPS) as well as an APECS accredited executive coach and coaching supervisor. In 2000, he was the Recipient of BPS Division of Counselling Psychology Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Profession. And in 2019, Ernesto received the BPS Award for Distinguished Contribution to Practice. His most recent book, Practising Existential Therapy: The Relational World 2nd edition (Sage, 2015) has been widely praised as a major contribution to the advancement of existential theory and practice. Living up to the existential dictum that life is absurd, Ernesto is also the author of an on-going series of Private Eye novels. Date and Time: Saturday 22 March from 2 pm to 3 pm – (UK time) Individual Dialogue Fee: £70 Venue: Online Zoom FULL PROGRAMME 2025: 25 January “Knots” with Prof. Ernesto Spinelli and Bárbara Godoy 22 February “Healing” with Dr. Michael Guy Thompson and Prof. Ernesto Spinelli 22 March “Difference” with Prof. Tod DuBose and Prof. Ernesto Spinelli 12 April “Polarisation” with Prof. Kirk Schneider and Prof. Ernesto Spinelli 3 May “Character” with Prof. Robert Romanyshyn and Prof. Ernesto Spinelli 21 June “Opening” with Dr. Yaqui Martinez and Prof. Ernesto Spinelli 19 July “Meaning” with Dr. Jan Resnick and Prof. Ernesto Spinelli 25 October “Invention” with Dr. Betty Cannon and Prof. Ernesto Spinelli 15 November “Hallucination” with Prof. Simon du Plock and Prof. Ernesto Spinelli 13 December “Hysteria” with Bárbara Godoy and Prof. Ernesto Spinelli Read the full programme here > Course Organised by:

CBT for Abandonment Anxiety Course Overview: This course on CBT for Abandonment Anxiety explores the core principles of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) as a tool for addressing abandonment anxiety. The programme is designed to provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of how CBT techniques can help individuals overcome fears related to abandonment, fostering emotional resilience and healthier relationships. Learners will gain insight into the underlying causes of abandonment anxiety, alongside methods for managing emotional distress, improving self-esteem, and building secure attachments. By completing this course, participants will be equipped to apply CBT strategies in both personal and professional settings, enhancing their ability to support others struggling with similar issues. Course Description: This course covers key topics such as the psychology behind abandonment anxiety, common behavioural patterns, and the role of cognitive distortions. Learners will delve into specific CBT techniques such as cognitive restructuring, exposure therapy, and emotion regulation strategies. Through structured learning, participants will explore how to identify and challenge irrational thoughts, manage emotional responses, and develop healthier relationship dynamics. Throughout the course, learners will also examine real-world case studies to better understand how CBT is applied to address abandonment anxiety. By the end of the course, learners will have gained valuable skills to manage anxiety and build lasting emotional resilience. CBT for Abandonment Anxiety Curriculum: Module 01: Introduction to Abandonment Anxiety Module 02: Understanding Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Module 03: Cognitive Restructuring for Abandonment Anxiety Module 04: Exposure Therapy Techniques Module 05: Emotion Regulation and Mindfulness Module 06: Building Secure Attachments Module 07: CBT in Practice: Case Studies and Applications (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to manage abandonment anxiety Professionals aiming to enhance therapeutic skills in CBT Beginners with an interest in mental health and anxiety management Therapists looking to deepen their knowledge of CBT applications Career Path Cognitive Behavioural Therapist Mental Health Counsellor Clinical Psychologist Therapeutic Support Worker Anxiety Specialist in Healthcare

Counselling Skills Training Course Overview This Counselling Skills Training course provides a comprehensive foundation in the key concepts, theories, and practices that are vital to effective counselling. Learners will explore various counselling techniques, including communication skills, empathy, and crisis intervention. The course covers the essential theoretical frameworks behind counselling practices, legal and ethical considerations, and the role of therapists in different therapeutic environments. By the end of the course, learners will have gained a thorough understanding of how to engage with clients, assess their needs, and support them through crises, making this course an essential resource for anyone interested in pursuing a career in the counselling and mental health fields. Course Description The Counselling Skills Training course delves into the core aspects of professional counselling, focusing on communication, empathy, and the different therapeutic models. It covers essential theories and models, such as CBT and psychotherapy techniques, and their application in real-world settings. Learners will study how to manage legal, ethical, and cultural issues, and how to assess and engage clients effectively. Topics also include crisis management, low-intensity treatments, and the integration of medication in therapeutic settings. This course equips learners with valuable skills and a strong understanding of the professional expectations and practices of counsellors, preparing them for a range of roles in the mental health and therapy industries. Counselling Skills Training Curriculum Module 01: Counselling and Counsellors Module 02: Theories and Models of Counselling (Part 1) Module 03: Theories and Models of Counselling (Part 2) Module 04: Legal, Cultural and Ethical Issues in Professional Counselling Module 05: Forms of Psychotherapy Module 06: Engaging and Assessing the Patients Module 07: Helping the Client in Crisis Module 08: Crisis Intervention Module 09: Low Intensity CBT Treatment Module 10: Medication and Therapy in the Treatment of Mental Illness Module 11: Communication Skills and Empathy in Counselling (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to become professional counsellors. Professionals aiming to enhance their therapeutic skills. Beginners with an interest in mental health and counselling. Anyone seeking to understand counselling theories and practices for career development. Career Path Counsellor Psychotherapist Mental Health Support Worker CBT Practitioner Crisis Intervention Specialist Clinical Psychologist

Counselling and Psychotherapy Course Overview This Counselling and Psychotherapy course offers an in-depth exploration of the theories, practices, and approaches within the field of therapy. Learners will gain an understanding of different therapeutic models, including cognitive-behavioural therapy and psychodynamic therapy, and learn how to apply these approaches effectively. The course provides valuable insights into the psychology of human behaviour and offers practical tools for addressing a wide range of client needs. Upon completion, learners will have a well-rounded understanding of psychotherapy techniques, the therapist-client dynamic, and the ethics surrounding the profession. This course is designed to equip learners with the essential knowledge and skills to pursue a career in psychotherapy or to enhance their current practice in a supportive capacity. Course Description This comprehensive course covers key therapeutic frameworks and explores the role of the psychotherapist in various contexts. Topics include the different types of psychotherapy, the foundations of the therapeutic relationship, and the challenges and rewards of providing therapy in diverse settings. Learners will also explore internet-based therapy and its growing role in modern mental health care. Throughout the course, participants will deepen their understanding of client needs and how to tailor approaches to suit individual cases. By the end of the course, learners will have gained essential skills for understanding and supporting clients in a professional capacity, as well as an appreciation for the ethical responsibilities and reflective practices required in the field of psychotherapy. Counselling and Psychotherapy Curriculum Module 01: Introduction to the course Module 02: Understanding Psychotherapy Module 03: Starting Psychotherapy Practice Module 04: Your Potential Clients in Therapy Module 05: Different Types of Psychotherapy Module 06: Internet Based Therapy (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to pursue a career in counselling and psychotherapy. Professionals aiming to expand their therapeutic skills in the mental health sector. Beginners with an interest in understanding psychological support methods. Anyone seeking personal development through a deeper understanding of human behaviour. Career Path Psychotherapist Counsellor Mental Health Practitioner Online Therapy Specialist Private Practice Owner Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) Therapist Social Worker Clinical Psychologist

Virtual course for parents of adult children at risk/pre manifest. We are pleased to invite you to our virtual course for parents of adult children at risk/pre manifest. This is an opportunity to improve your knowledge of the issues surrounding your adult child at risk, share your experiences and gain ideas of support available for yourself and your adult child. This is a 5 week course running from Thursday 22 February 2024 10am -11.30am until Thursday 21 March, with the final session being an extended session narrative therapy session facilitated by Riverbank Psychology. There will be the opportunity to join a follow up support group. Week 1 – Thursday 22 February 2024 10am Welcome and overview of support available from the Huntington Disease Association. Speaker: James O’Connor – Team Leader HDYES – Huntington’s Disease Association Week 2 – Thursday 29 February 2024 10am Genetics: How to access testing, the process and family planning options Speaker: Chris Platt – SHDA – Huntington’s Disease Association Week 3 – Thursday 7 March 2024 10am Research update and what next Speaker: Nataile Saad - Research Sister - Welcome Trust Southampton University Hospital Week 4 – Thursday 14 March 2024 10am Finances planning ahead Speaker: Lisa Pearson - Financial Advisor - Asset management Week 5 – Thursday 21 March 2024 9.30 -12.30pm (note longer session)* Narrative Therapy: Coping with Feelings, supporting a loved one and self-care. Mariangels Ferrer – Clinical Psychologist – Riverbank Psychology * We will invite previous course participants to this part of the course but can only accommodate a maximum of 12/14 people on the day. The focus of Narrative Therapy in this group is to participate in a creative activity that explores identity through values, beliefs, and support systems, enabling us to make connections to our external lives which will be sustainable in our everyday lives. Mariangels Ferrer Duch is a Clinical Psychologist trained in Narrative Therapy who will be facilitating a three-hour Narrative Therapy session. The focus of the session will be upon the many small things that are important to us in life which can often be overlooked in times of stress. We hope the conversation will help to mutually inspire us all! We take your privacy seriously and promise to never sell your data. You can find out more about your rights, how we use your personal information and how we keep your details safe and secure by reading our privacy policy here. For more information email info@hda.org.uk or call 0151 331 5444.

Keeping Yourself in Mind: An ACT-informed programme for people supporting a family member with JHD We are pleased to invite you to our virtual course for parents and family carers of people living with Juvenile Huntington’s disease. The course will be run by Sarah Gunn, a clinical psychologist and researcher at the University of Leicester, and will be based on the principles of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is a therapeutic approach which focuses on learning to manage difficult thoughts and feelings, and to live a life which feels valuable and meaningful despite the struggles we encounter. This is an opportunity to explore the difficulties that can be associated with caring for a person with JHD (for you and within the family), to identify the values that matter most to you, and for you to think about how to move towards a more rich and valued life than you may have now. This is an eight-week course running from Wednesday 7 February to Wednesday 27 March 2024. The sessions will be on a Wednesday afternoon 1-2.30pm. Here is a very brief session outline: Week 1: Introductions: To ACT, to the programme, and to each other Week 2: Impacts of Juvenile Huntington’s on the “carer”* and wider family Week 3: Psychological wellbeing when supporting a person with Juvenile Huntington’s Week 4: Coping and adjustment: Living with, not battling against Week 5: What matters to you: Finding your values Week 6: Moving forward: Taking steps to align with your values Week 7: Living a valued life alongside Huntington’s: Plans and coping strategies Week 8: Reflection and ending: What’s next? *Note: Some people don’t like this term, so here we’re using it in quote marks. During the course, we will discuss which term would be preferred by the people attending. For more information on what information we collect and how we use it when booking onto one of our events, please see our privacy policy on our website.