Hello everyone! We are excited to share more updates about the 10IATC! We are thrilled to announce our second keynote speaker for the 10IATC: Natalia Rakar-Szabo (from Hungary/Austria).

Courage in Action: Navigating Social Justice through Adventure Therapy, An Eastern European Perspective
Natalia Rakar-Szabo will be presenting on the vital intersection of social justice and adventure therapy, particularly from the perspective of Central and Eastern Europe. Her keynote, titled “Courage in Action,” will explore how adventure therapy can be a powerful tool for promoting environmental justice, inclusivity, and community engagement. Natalia will address the unique challenges faced in this region, such as political polarization, mental health stigmatization, transgenerational trauma, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. She will also emphasize the importance of a systematic and holistic approach in therapy, encouraging practitioners to confront biases and systemic injustices.

Meet Natalia Rakar-Szabo
Natalia Rakar-Szabo is a highly versatile professional with multiple MA qualifications in Crisis Psychology, Counseling and Organizational Psychologies, Social Work, and Social Politics. She is an International MHPSS and Family Child Protection Specialist, and a PhD Candidate in Psychology. Natalia is known for her work as a Systemic, Environmental, and Crisis Psychologist, as well as a Nature-based Therapist and Social Justice activist. Her extensive training includes certifications in Nature-Adventure Therapy, Clinical Ecotherapy, Trauma Therapy, Schema, Cognitive, and Systemic Family Therapies.

With over 30 years of experience, Natalia has worked across governmental, civil, private practice, academic, and international organizational settings. She has trained in Adventure Therapy and Clinical Ecotherapy abroad, including a significant period in Australia. Since the 6th IATC, she has been a key representative for Hungary and a founding member of the European GATE. Currently based in Austria, Natalia travels extensively for her professional commitments.

Natalia’s rich heritage, encompassing Ukrainian, Hungarian, and Russian roots, has deeply influenced her life and work. Her dedication to social justice and advocacy for vulnerable populations has been a cornerstone of her career. Recently, she has focused on providing trauma-focused psychological support in Ukraine and has been actively involved in international IATC working groups.

Join us at the 10IATC to gain insights from Natalia’s extensive experience and passion for social justice and adventure therapy. The conference will be held from June 27 to July 1, 2025. Stay tuned to our website for more details and registration information!