Description: When was the last time you had a great conversation? A conversation that meant so much more than two intersecting monologues, where you heard yourself say things you didn’t even know you knew, that stayed with you long after it was over, continuing to inspire and encourage you?

The purpose of these meetings is to remind ourselves of the things that really matter to us, to practice the courage to communicate them even when we are afraid, and to notice the effect our words have on others and on ourselves. In short, let’s use the principles of Awareness, Courage & Love, empirically supported by studies of belonging, intimacy and healthy relationships.

Objectives:

1. Fostering Meaningful Conversations: Participants will learn how to engage in conversations that go beyond mere exchanges of information, facilitating deeper connections and personal insights.

2. Practicing Courageous Communication: Attendees will develop the courage to communicate authentically, expressing what truly matters to them, even in the face of fear.

3. Understanding the Impact of Communication: Clinicians will learn to observe and understand the effects of their words on themselves and others, using principles of Awareness, Courage, and Love to enhance relationships.

Competencies Acquired:

1. Deepening Conversational Skills: Proficiency in creating and sustaining meaningful, impactful conversations that foster personal growth and connection.

2. Authentic Self-Expression: Ability to communicate courageously and authentically, helping clients express their true selves and values.

3. Enhancing Relational Awareness: Enhanced capability to notice and understand the impact of communication on relationships, using principles of Awareness, Courage, and Love to promote intimacy and belonging.

Bibliographic Titles:

1. Brown, B. (2012). *Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead*. Gotham Books.

2. Rogers, C. R. (1980). *A Way of Being*. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.

3. Siegel, D. J., & Bryson, T. P. (2018). *The Power of Showing Up: How Parental Presence Shapes Who Our Kids Become and How Their Brains Get Wired*. Ballantine Books.

4. Neff, K. (2011). *Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself*. William Morrow.

5. Tatkin, S. (2012). *Wired for Love: How Understanding Your Partner’s Brain and Attachment Style Can Help You Defuse Conflict and Build a Secure Relationship*. New Harbinger Publications.

Mathias Funke

Mathias is a clinical psychologist working in private practice in Berlin, Germany. ACT and FAP have transformed his life and work since 2012. Co-facilitator Berlin Awareness Courage and Love Meetup since 2016. Trainings in ACT, workshops and lectures on ACT, FAP, relationships and psychedelic therapy in Germany, Poland, Romania, Cyprus and the USA.