Workshop 2/4: Redefining in Cathexis TA: Defensive Patterns in Relationships

Who is it aimed at

TA trainees 

Course Outline

This workshop invites participants to explore Redefining as a subtle but powerful defensive pattern that keeps clients anchored to early unhelpful decisions, limiting genuine connection and growth. Through brief teaching segments, illustrative clinical examples and group discussion participants will examine how Redefining emerges in relational interactions and therapeutic work. We will reflect on the ways these patterns shape contact, influence client experience, and maintain relational stasis. Ethical considerations and intersectional perspectives will be woven throughout, supporting thoughtful and responsible clinical engagement.

Aims

1. To provide a clear understanding of Redefining as a defensive relational pattern in Cathexis TA.

2. To explore how Redefining manifests in therapy and in clients’ interactions.

3. To encourage discussion and critical reflection on the concept, including its impact on contact and change.

4. To consider intersectional and diversity factors when observing and addressing Redefining.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:

• Understand the concept of Redefining as a defensive pattern in relational contact.

• Identify how Redefining manifests in clinical practice and client interactions.

• Reflect critically on the effects of Redefining on therapeutic contact and change.

• Apply insights ethically and responsibly in their work with clients.

• Consider diversity and intersectional factors when working with Redefining in therapy.

Course Structure

This workshop combines didactic teaching, short clinical examples and group discussion with possible short exercise

1. Introduction and Overview

2. Understanding Redefining – Theory, examples, and discussion of defensive patterns.

3. Manifestations in Therapy – Clinical illustrations and exploration of relational dynamics.

4. Practical Implications – Ethical considerations and reflection on intersectionality in practice.

5. Summary and Reflection – Consolidation of learning and takeaways for clinical work.

Facilitator

Hanna Konoplianyk PTSTA-P

Hanna Konoplianyk is a TA therapist, trainer, and supervisor based in Yorkshire, working primarily online. Originally from Ukraine, she now calls both Ukraine and Britain home.

Her work is grounded in a relational approach, with special interests in multicultural and multilingual psychotherapy, narcissistic process, historical trauma, and the online therapeutic space.

Hanna is a core tutor at Physis Scotland, Director and committee member of the North East TA Conference and actively contributes to the TA community in the UK and beyond.