Workshop 1/4: Held in Place: Passivity and Symbiosis

Who is it aimed at

TA trainees 

Course Outline

This workshop invites participants to explore the dynamics of Passivity and Symbiosis in therapy, focusing on understanding patterns of stuckness and relational dependence. Through short teaching segments, illustrative clinical examples, and group discussion participants will examine how these dynamics emerge in therapy and in clients’ lives. The workshop also encourages reflection on ethical practice and the influence of diversity and intersectional factors, supporting nuanced and responsible clinical use.

Aims

1. To provide a clear understanding of the theoretical foundations of Passivity and Symbiosis.

2. To explore practical applications of these concepts in contemporary clinical practice.

3. To encourage discussion and critical reflection on the models, including their strengths and limitations.

4. To examine ethical considerations when working with Passivity and Symbiosis.

5. To consider intersectional and diversity factors when integrating these concepts into therapy.

Learning Outcomes

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

• Understand the key theoretical concepts of Passivity and Symbiosis.

• Explain how these ideas can inform clinical practice.

• Apply the concepts thoughtfully and ethically in their work with clients.

• Critically reflect on the models, including strengths, limitations, and relevance to contemporary practice.

• Consider diversity and intersectional factors when using these concepts in therapy.

Course Structure

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

1. Introduction and Overview

2. Passivity – Theory, examples, and discussion.

3. Symbiosis – Theory, examples, and discussion.

4. Practical Applications – Integrating concepts ethically in clinical work, with reflection on intersectionality.

5. Summary and Reflection – Consolidation of learning and takeaways for practice.

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.