The Conference program is now finalized, and one of its engaging panels is set to explore key dynamics in relational psychoanalytic psychotherapy with children and parents. The Child, Adolescent and Parent Committee is happy to announce the invited panel, “Navigating Egalitarian and Tyrannical Processes in Relational Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy,” which will offer fresh perspectives on how power dynamics shape therapeutic processes with children and parents.

Three paper presentations will comprise the panel, to be held Friday, June 20, 1:30 – 3:00, moderated by Sara Biondi (Italy). Aikaterini Karagianni (Greece) will present, “Egalitarian Openings in Child Psychotherapy: Reflections on First-Session Encounters in the Art Therapy Room.” Marilou Kountria (Greece) will discuss “Towards an Egalitarian Ending in Relational Psychoanalytic Play Therapy.” And Sharon Ostfeld-Etzion (Israel) will speak on “Decentralization of Power and Knowledge, and Empowering Parental Role in Parent-Child Psychotherapy.”

This panel is designed not only to share innovative research but also to foster engaging dialogue with the audience. Join us for an insightful exploration into the nuanced interplay of egalitarian and tyrannical processes in therapeutic settings, and be part of a conversation that promises both depth and dynamism.

About the panel, our presenters share the following:

Sharon: “Psychoanalytic parent-child psychotherapy is a relatively new field, but it offers important opportunities to work on parent-child internal representations and reflective abilities. The therapist’s role is altered, and parents and children are more active in the changing process as the therapist assists and supports them.”

Marilou: “Children often have little control over when therapy ends, as these decisions are usually made by adults. This paper explores how relational play therapy fosters a more democratic approach to endings, allowing children to engage with the process of separation in a way that respects their emotional readiness. Through relational attunement and symbolic play, therapy endings can become meaningful experiences that support resilience and growth rather than abrupt transitions. This presentation highlights how co-created endings honor the child’s voice and acknowledge the significance of the therapeutic relationship.”

Kate: “Unlike adults, children often come to the therapy room with a level of resistance, lacking readiness and motivation, since they are usually referred by the caregiver or a professional. This paper draws from unorthodox and challenging first sessions in private practice to discuss how the therapist can foster an egalitarian initiation that supports the child to feel more relaxed, seen, empowered and motivated to come again to continue the therapeutic journey.”

Fabia E. Banella (Italy),
Child, Adolescent, and Parent Committee Chair

Fabia E. Banella, Ph.D.
Rome, Italy
Email Fabia Banella