Monthly Peer Groups – An enriching environment for mutual learning
In the realm of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), the importance of community and collaboration cannot be overstated. Our monthly Peer Group serves as a vital space for therapists to connect, grow, and share experiences. The Northern group is hosted by Eleni Neville & Cherine Habib. These gatherings have become a cherished part of our professional lives, fostering a sense of belonging and support among members.
Participants in the Peer Group frequently express their appreciation for this environment, which is enriched by the warmth and generosity of its members. One therapist reflected, “I have found the peer group to be both a lovely place to connect with like-minded people and, as a budding therapist, to share in the knowledge and experience the group members bring to the table.” This sentiment captures the essence of our gatherings, where we come together to learn and support one another in our journey as EFT practitioners.
Our sessions typically begin with a relaxed social time, allowing members to catch up and share refreshments. As one member noted. This informal interaction helps to establish a sense of camaraderie that enhances our collaborative learning environment.
The structured part of our gatherings focuses on watching relevant training materials that enhance our understanding of EFT. The trainers we frequently engage with—such as George Faller, Ryan Rana, and Dr. Leanne Campbell—bring invaluable insights and expertise to our discussions. Cherine and Eleni put in great effort to curate stimulating content that resonates with our practice and sparks engaging conversations. As one member reflected, “I appreciate that there is a particular focus for peer discussion and reflections; I go away with a greater perspective of EFT and my work as a therapist.” This combination of structure and support allows us to deepen our understanding of EFT and improve our therapeutic skills.
In recent months, we have introduced a new format for our meetings: presenting cases from our respective clinical practices. This initiative has allowed for deeper peer support and learning, as we navigate real-life challenges and successes together. Members appreciate the opportunity to discuss their experiences and gain insights from their peers, understanding that each therapist brings unique perspectives and practices to the table. As one therapist noted, “All of the attending therapists come from various levels of experience—we all learn from each other’s uniqueness and perspectives.” This diversity enriches our discussions and fosters a culture of mutual learning.
Beyond the monthly gatherings, we celebrate the end of the year with a social outing, which provides an additional opportunity to strengthen our bonds and get to know one another personally. These outings contribute to the collective spirit of our Peer Group, making us not just colleagues but friends who support each other both professionally and personally.
Our monthly Peer Group embodies the spirit of collaboration, support, and growth within the EFT community. Thanks to the dedication of the hosts, and the contributions of each member, we have created a nurturing environment that inspires continuous learning and connection. Whether you are a seasoned therapist or just starting in EFT, our Peer Group welcomes you to join us in this enriching journey. We look forward to seeing you at our next gathering!
Written by Eleni Neville
