by Willow Banks, Psy.D.

I’ve learned that NCSPP is not alone in experiencing a sense of scarcity these days. 

Speaking with colleagues within other psychoanalytic organizations, many of us find ourselves doing more with less as we seek to fill vacant positions and move towards a full return to programming. I don’t know any mental health professionals who have not been deeply impacted by working through the trauma of the pandemic, navigating the weird world of Zoom therapy, and trying to stay connected despite exhaustion and massive health anxiety. It makes sense that all of this would affect our connection to our communities and our institutions. Finding the energy for taking on that one extra commitment can be difficult. Perhaps the prospect of returning to a pre-pandemic pace just isn’t appealing, or even possible. Systemic inequities that persist in society and our analytic communities are a barrier to full participation, particularly for people of color. Some folks simply can’t afford to take on commitments that do not pay. Our own board is in an ongoing conversation about how to build more benefit into chairing or serving on a committee in order to counteract the feeling of running on empty that arises for many volunteers.

As front-line workers, we need replenishment after the strain of the past two years, and our various professional homes offer us the kind of rich engagement necessary for our individual work to thrive. At NCSPP we strive to create programs and offerings that bring us together for this kind of nourishment. 

This year, our Board and Committee Members continue their outstanding work, bringing high-quality programming to the community and helping the organization to improve and evolve. We are excited to be bringing back our popular Intensive Study Group later in the year, which will focus on the topic of belonging. Our Tech Committee has launched our NCSPP Instagram page and Twitter account, which bring new possibilities for growth and connection with our membership base, as well as collaboration with other analytic organizations. Keep an eye out for announcements for more upcoming courses and events - we look forward to seeing you!

As President, I also feel a responsibility to be open about NCSPP’s need for support from you, our membership. Can you join us as a Committee or Board Member and contribute your time to our vibrant community? Are you in a position to send a donation to support and sustain the programming you enjoy? If so, you can find out how on our website, www.ncspp.org, or send an email to info@ncspp.org. As always, your ongoing membership and attendance are sincerely appreciated.