A message from our newly elected EAP President Catalin Zaharia

This year appears a pivotal moment, not just for our organization and for psychotherapy, but for the very fabric of human experience. We stand at the threshold of a new era defined by unprecedented complexity and change. We live in a turbulent world where the layers of reality—personal, social, digital—intertwine and often clash. The anxieties of our time, the uncertainties, the constant barrage of information, and the rapid shifts in our social landscape all contribute to a profound sense of instability.

In this context, the psychotherapist's role seems more crucial than ever. Our mission is to provide a beacon of stability and a safe harbour for mental and emotional health. Our organization is committed to supporting and promoting this essential work. We strive to create an environment where therapists can thrive, their expertise is valued, and their efforts are amplified. We stand on the 'shoulders of giants', a lineage of great innovators who have shaped our understanding of the human psyche. Our psychotherapeutic schools, rich in history and proven practices, provide a solid foundation for our work. But we are not bound by tradition alone. Our scientific dedication may drive us forward, to remain at the forefront of knowledge and practice. EAP is committed to rigorous research, promote evidence-based approaches, and foster a culture of continuous learning.

We are also asked to navigate a technological world of unprecedented tools and possibilities. While these technologies offer immense potential, we have responsibilities to be vigilant and ensure that our profession remains grounded in the human experience and that we do not reduce the richness and complexity of the psyche to mere algorithms or data points. Psychotherapists are the guardians of human connection and advocates for empathy and understanding. We will adapt and utilize new tools, but never at the expense of our core values.

In recent years, we have observed a growing interest in our standards, a testament to the integrity and quality of our work. We will honour this trust by ensuring that the EAP remains a strong and inclusive umbrella, providing a home for all types of psychotherapy education. We will foster collaboration, promote diversity, and ensure our standards reflect professional excellence. Ultimately, our work is about hope. It is about humanity. We are not merely treating symptoms but nurturing resilience, fostering growth, and empowering individuals to live more fulfilling lives. We are advancing knowledge about the human experience, deepening our understanding of the subjective world, and illuminating the paths to healing and well-being.

As I assume this Presidency, I pledge to serve with dedication, integrity, and vision. I will work tirelessly to support our members, advance our profession, and ensure we continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve. Together, we can navigate the challenges of our time to build a brighter future, one were mental and emotional health are prioritized and celebrated.

 

Catalin Zaharia

EAP President