The training to be held with the support of the European Union Civil Think Program aims to enhance the emotional regulation, self-compassion, and psychological resilience skills of employees actively working in the field. The program, based on the focusing method, aims to support participants in managing the emotional burden they are exposed to, coping with burnout, and establishing a more balanced and compassionate relationship with beneficiary groups in the field.
Training Information
Following the three-day in-person training organized for humanitarian aid workers serving in the earthquake region, one-on-one online mentoring sessions will be held with participants. Those who successfully complete the program will receive a participation certificate approved by The International Focusing Institute (TIFI).
The training language is English; professional Turkish interpretation will be provided throughout the program. (There is no foreign language requirement.)
Logistics Information
- Venue and Date: May 8-9-10, 2026 | Samandağ, Hatay.
- Accommodation, travel, and meal expenses for participants coming from outside the city will be covered by the project.
Who Can Apply?
Those working in rights-based organizations, NGOs, or local initiatives in the provinces of Adıyaman, Kahramanmaraş, and Hatay:
- Social workers and psychologists,
- Psychosocial support and youth workers,
- Project coordinators, activists, and volunteers.
Evaluation and Application
To provide in-depth practical opportunities, the quota is limited to 15 participants (5 participants from each city). Evaluations will be based on application motivation. As accommodation and travel reservations will be made individually, only candidates who are certain to participate are requested to apply.
To apply for the training, you can click here and fill out the application form by the end of April 19.
About the Trainer and Project Team
The training will be delivered by Marta Fabregat, a senior trainer authorized by TIFI and the British Focusing Association. With over 30 years of experience, Fabregat currently provides specialized trainings for civil society workers in Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East and serves as the project's academic mentor. For more details about the trainer, click here.
The training and mentoring process will be conducted by Ceren Can and Dilek Aydın, both of whom are continuing their specialization training with TIFI and have experience in civil society and humanitarian aid.
About the Focusing Method
The Focusing method, developed by philosophy and psychology professor Eugene Gendlin, is a self-awareness and "accompanying" technique based not on mental focus but on listening to bodily sensations without judgment. Originally developed for psychotherapy, this method now has a wide network of applications worldwide, from trauma work to the arts, coaching, and community efforts.
Within the scope of this project, Focusing aims to help humanitarian aid workers in disaster and crisis areas manage the heavy emotional burden they face, cope with burnout, and enhance their psychological resilience. Preserving one’s internal balance enables more patient, compassionate, and sustainable communication with groups encountered in the field.
This training was prepared with the support of the European Union under the Civil Think Program. The content is solely the responsibility of Ceren Can and does not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union at all times.