Language is more than just words—it carries meaning, intention, and nuance that often lie between the lines. In both everyday life and therapy, the way we interpret language shapes our understanding of ourselves and others. This workshop invites participants to explore the richness of language through mindful reading and interpretation, deepening their awareness of the subtle messages embedded in words, tone, and context.

Inspired by the theme of the conference, "In Between", this session will focus on the spaces between words—the unspoken, the implied, and the intuitive. We will use the poetry of Donna Answorth as a lens to examine how meaning emerges not only from what is said but also from what is left unsaid. Through guided exercises and reflective discussions, participants will develop a heightened sensitivity to the implicit messages in both literature and therapeutic conversations.

This interactive workshop will provide tools for Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) practitioners to sharpen their ability to listen deeply, notice what clients communicate beyond their words, and respond with precision and empathy. By honing this skill, therapists can foster conversations that open up new possibilities and insights, helping clients find strengths and solutions even in the in-between spaces of their narratives.

It will be a session that blends poetry, mindfulness, and SFBT — an exploration of what lies between the lines and how it can transform our interactions and understanding in both our professional and personal lives.

Maja Zawierzeniec

Psychologist and Latin American studies specialist. She holds a Ph.D. in Humanities from the University of Warsaw and a Master’s degree in Psychology. Her career is deeply rooted in language, both as a means of communication and as a tool for personal transformation. As a trilingual poet (ES, EN, PL), she has published five poetry collections exploring themes of multiculturalism, art, nature, and existential reflection. A passionate advocate for self-growth and autonomy, she is the author of Living by Design, Not by Default. Nonsense-Free Life in a Beautiful World Full of Crap (2023). As a TEDx organizer and speaker, she fosters cross-cultural dialogue and personal empowerment through storytelling and education. With a rich international background (travels to almost 60 countries, implementation of various multicultural initiatives) she brings global perspective to her psychological practice, integrating elements of mindful reading and creative writing techniques to help individuals navigate change and personal growth.