Existential Dialogue 2026: "Family" with Dr. Katerina Zymnis

Existential Dialogues 2026: "A Chorus of Voices"

Topic: "Family" between Prof. Ernesto Spinelli and Dr. Katerina Symnis

“The Interplay of Individuality and Togetherness in Existential Integrative Family TherapyExistential Integrative Family Therapy (EIFT) is an integrative approach that combines existential psychotherapy with family systems theory, creating a therapeutic space that values both individual experiences and relational contexts. EIFT addresses fundamental existential themes within family dynamics, such as the balance between connection and differentiation, authenticity, self-awareness, and meaningful communication. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of family members and their shared experiences, while also recognizing each individual’s unique existential concerns and search for meaning. Through engaging discussions and experiential exercises, such as role-playing and genograms, the therapeutic process helps families navigate challenges like conflict resolution, life transitions, and intergenerational trauma, ultimately fostering healthier and more authentic family relationships. In this existential dialogue we will deepen our understanding of family dynamics and its profound impact on human existence. Join us for a transformative experience that will leave us inspired and equipped with valuable tools for our practice.”

Katerina Zymnis Georgalos, PhD, is a founding member, co-director, trainer and supervisor at the Hellenic Association for Existential Psychology, gignesthai. She works as a psychotherapist with individuals, families and groups and as a trainer and supervisor at gignesthai. She teaches in postgraduate programs at Panteion University of Social and Political Sciences, at The American College of Greece, and at the University of Thessalia. Her area of interest in research is the process and outcome of psychotherapy, as well as the use of qualitative methods of data analysis. She has contributed with her writing in several books and articles related to existential therapy and psychotherapy process and outcome.
Katerina is a European Certified Psychotherapist (ECP), and an active member of HELASYTH (Hellenic Association for Systemic Therapy) and EFTA (European Association for Family Therapy). She is a founding member of FETE (Federation for Existential Therapy in Europe), Chair of the FETE organizing committee of the 2nd European Existential Therapy Conference in Athens (2020), and Co-chair of the organizing committee of the 3rd World Existential Therapy Conference held in Athens (May 2023).

Recommended readings for “Family”:
Titelman, P. (2014). The concept of differentiation of self in Bowen theory. In Differentiation of self (pp. 33-94). Routledge.
Satir, V. (1988). The new peoplemaking. Science & Behavior Books.
Whitaker, C. A., & Ryan, M. O. (1989). Midnight musings of a family therapist.
Zymnis Georgalos, K. (2024). Embracing Existential Psychotherapy and Family Therapy: A therapeutic journey with families. Existential Analysis: Journal of the Society for Existential Analysis, 35(2).

Visit our website to see the Full Programme.