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Inspired by the radical encounter groups of early California's Human Potential Movement. We create group experiences, facilitating personal growth, self-awareness and social intelligence.
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WHY THE GROUP
We are relational beings. Our problems, challenges, and emotional patterns exist in relationship to others. We might not be in the school playground any more, and yet the dynamics are just as relevant. Whether we are in a nightclub, a family dinner, or a boardroom, group dynamics shape our experience.
We can talk about these things, read about them, or explore them with a coach or therapist. But it is only in the group, with others, in real time, that they truly come alive. The group is the method. The way forward is through the group.
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WHAT HAPPENS
An encounter group is a live group experience designed to create the conditions for authentic self-expression and real connection. Our personal & social patterns show up when we are with others.
Each session draws on a blend of group inquiry, embodied practices, experiential games, radical honesty, and themed conversation. A space to break out of limiting patterns, and reconnect with your own aliveness and potential.
We believe the group experience is one of the most powerful and underused tools for human transformation. Our work is grounded in over 80 years of therapeutic wisdom, blending Gestalt therapy, psychodrama, radical honesty, somatic awareness, and systemic field dynamics into a single living experience.
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SIGN UP FOR ENCOUNTER
We run public Encounter groups throughout the year in parks and venues around London. If you are interested in joining in then please drop your details below and we can share with you upcoming details. We want to build a tribe of like minded people looking to connect with humans.
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WHO IS IT FOR?
We run Encounter groups for individuals, organisational teams & groups. Benefits include improved energy, emotional regulation, relational connection, authenticity, honesty, aliveness, spontaneity and creativity. For teams and organisations: greater psychological safety, more trust between team members and leadership, more honest and effective communication, less interpersonal friction, stronger cohesion and collective performance,
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ABOUT TOM
Tom van Berckel is the creator of Encounter. He is a CBT therapist (BABCP), integrative psychotherapist (UKCP), and leadership coach (ICF). He has designed self-development apps, worked in the NHS, and run programmes for brands including Warner Bros and Soho House.
His work is centred on Open Culture. We are more digitally connected than any generation in history, and yet genuine human contact is declining. Capacities for empathy, conflict resolution, and authentic self-expression are declining, and the environments that develop them are disappearing. Open Culture creates the conditions for authentic, non-judgemental, relational open spaces unlocking personal, organisational, and societal potential.
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BLOG
Find out about the world of group dynamics.