Event Overview:
Political polarization is increasingly seeping into various areas of our lives. Clients may demonstrate a variety of opinions towards the climate-crisis amongst topics that can lead to relationship disruptions inside and outside of the therapy room. Join therapists from Canada and the U.S as they explore concerns that lead to climate denial and polarization, sources of empathy in interactions with clients, and strategies for navigating difficult conversations.
Join us as we explore the psychological mechanisms that contribute to the widespread denial and, in some cases, the radicalized rejection of climate science. We will consider how fear, “othering,” and cognitive dissonance influence an individual's perception of climate change and their willingness to accept or reject scientific evidence. We will also examine psychological defense mechanisms along with the opportunity to reclaim denial as a natural part of grief rather than a vulnerability towards radicalization. Lastly, communication strategies will be considered to more effectively approach individuals experiencing denial, along with the importance of distress tolerance to foster resilience in acceptance of an ongoing crisis.
Learning Outcomes:
- Analyze the role of cognitive dissonance in climate change belief systems, specifically explaining how individuals attempt to reduce psychological discomfort when scientific facts conflict with pre-existing political or personal identities.
- Evaluate how the fundamental human needs for safety and belonging are leveraged through fear and "othering" to drive polarization and reinforce the radicalized rejection of climate science, serving specific political or industry agendas.
- Consider current communication strategies regarding climate change and apply evidence-based psychological principles to enhance their effectiveness in professional and public discourse.
- Differentiate between psychological defense mechanisms (e.g., minimization, displacement) and the natural, adaptive process of denial as a stage of grief, enabling a less pathologizing approach to individuals struggling with climate reality.
Meet Your Presenter:
Rachael Coccia’s (she/her) passion for environmental activism began as a teen as the host and associate producer of Aqua Kids, a nationally syndicated children’s show about marine and aquatic ecosystems. In 2017, she completed her MA in Marine Conservation and Policy at Stony Brook University and worked in the field of ocean activism as a science communicator. Most notably, she served as the Director of Youth Initiatives for World Oceans Day and Plastic Pollution Manager at the national headquarters of the Surfrider Foundation. In 2022, Rachael shifted her focus to study Existential Psychology at Seattle University. She currently works as a climate psychology consultant and therapist in private practice at Moonglade Therapy PLLC where she specializes in trauma and grief support by engaging in IFS, Jungian, and nature therapy.
Trevor Lehmann (he/him) holds an M.Ed in Counselling Psychology and is the founding President of the Climate-Informed Counsellors Chapter of the Canadian Counsellors and Psychotherapists Association. He has 10 years of experience in Canadian post-secondary education assisting domestic and international students of all ages and academic levels and has presented work on chronic illness, grief and loss, worker’s rights, and climate change. See more of his writings at www.trevorlehmann.ca
Date: February 23, 2026
Time: 7 - 8:30 pm ET
This event will be recorded
This event has been approved for 1.5 credits
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CIC Chapter Event - Navigating the Psychology of Climate Denial and Radicalization
- Monday Feb 23 2026, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
