Values-Based Gatherings as a Path to Recovery

Author: Volodymyr Bahnenko

First published in Issue 1 of “Time of Logotherapy” (2025). Time references and invitations have been retained as they appeared in the original publication.

Four months ago, at a logotherapy study group, logotherapist Uliana Huliak and I had the idea of organising in-person gatherings of the logotherapy community in Kyiv. We felt that the online format, although convenient, could not fully convey the atmosphere of trust, support and deep understanding that develops through face-to-face communication.

Two participants at a table with books. Photograph reproduced from the original publication.

This initiative quickly became an important tradition for us. At first, we gathered in a close circle of like-minded people, discussed books, shared our experiences and supported one another. Over time, however, our idea reached beyond Kyiv — people from Lviv, Kharkiv and Dnipro began joining us. It was a real discovery! We realised how great the need for such gatherings was, how important they were and how they helped people find inner support.

An outdoor group selfie of participants. Photograph reproduced from the original publication.

I want to highlight one thing that is particularly meaningful to me. What makes these gatherings truly unique is the process of recovery. Within the community, a profound recovery takes place that is difficult to put into words. These are not merely conversations or exchanges of experience; there is a special atmosphere in which everyone feels accepted, heard and understood.

Participants holding copies of Viktor Frankl’s book. Photograph reproduced from the original publication.

Today, one important insight has become clear to me: the best place to recover is among people who share your values. When you are among such people, their very presence, their thoughts and their experience contribute to inner healing.

We talk and discuss important topics, yet the very space of our encounter is already restorative.

It is a space where everyone can receive support, be inspired and find answers to questions that matter to them.

Our first three gatherings were devoted to discussing books on logotherapy.

Participants at a gathering holding books. Photograph reproduced from the original publication.

The fourth gathering was a peer consultation session — we discussed our own cases, shared our experiences and sought solutions to difficult situations together. This was an exceptionally valuable format, as our group includes specialists from different fields: psychologists from the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, art therapists, logotherapists and helpline psychologists. We are all very different, but our experiences complement one another wonderfully, and this is precisely the strength of our community.

Group photograph: participants with toys, including one participant with a guitar. Photograph reproduced from the original publication.

We are already actively preparing our next gathering, planning its programme and choosing the most relevant topics for discussion.

Participants at a gathering in a hall. Photograph reproduced from the original publication.

If this atmosphere of trust, support, shared values and growth resonates with you, keep an eye out for announcements and come and recover together.