On Feb. 6-7, 2026, the Ukrainian Society for Transactional Analysis (USTA) held its annual international online conference, “USTA is Welcoming Friends!” The event brought together Ukrainian and international professionals for meaningful dialogue, mutual support, and shared development in the context of contemporary challenges.

The conference theme, “The Culture of Inclusivity and Transactional Analysis: Stepping Stones to Mature Autonomy,” became the focus of in-depth discussions on fostering inclusivity in psychotherapy, education, organizations, and society.

In 2026, the USTA Conference celebrated six years of continuous development. Over this time, it has grown into a gathering place for colleagues and friends, a space for professional support, and a platform for exchanging experience. It aims to foster professional growth, strengthen international connections, and maintain high standards of Transactional Analysis (TA) practice.

Today’s world is experiencing profound transformation, increasing polarization, and the tension of differing value systems. The cultural scripts and established ways of thinking that shape our societies can either encourage growth or deepen division. Transactional Analysis provides a powerful framework for exploring these scripts and creating conditions that support mature autonomy—the ability to act consciously, responsibly, and in authentic contact with others.

This year, the conference brought together speakers and participants from many countries, including Ukraine, the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, Poland, Austria, Germany, Mexico, Romania, and India.

Over two full days, participants engaged in a series of workshops focused on building “bridges” between the humanistic values of inclusion and the psychological tools of Transactional Analysis. The culture of inclusion was explored as a foundation for a society that recognizes the inherent value of every individual and ensures equal opportunities for all.

The dialogue treated inclusivity as a daily practice rather than an abstract concept. Participants explored how to cultivate a culture of recognition within professional communities and prevent unconscious scripts of exclusion. Attention was also paid to developing organizational cultures where every person has a place and a voice.

Discussions included an exploration of neurodiversity as an expression of natural growth seeking balance between freedom and structure. Additionally, participants examined the interconnection between attitudes toward money, inclusivity, and the maturity of monetary culture within organizations and society.

The conference also addressed key questions concerning the scientific foundation of Transactional Analysis. Discussions included evidence-based psychotherapy, research on the Ego State model, studies on the effectiveness of TA, and the development of clinical protocols based on the TA framework. The event outlined concrete steps for the further development of TA as a scientifically grounded and socially responsive approach.

The atmosphere of the conference was distinctive. Participants from Ukraine joined even during power outages using backup power sources, coping with unstable internet connections, and at times pausing due to air raid alerts. They remained deeply engaged and professionally committed, creating a sense of genuine unity.

This year’s conference brought together more than 100 participants from around the world, as well as representatives from many cities across Ukraine. The event was attended by practicing psychologists, organizational consultants, educators, and students of advanced TA training programs. Participants demonstrated a high level of engagement, sharing their experiences and supporting one another while addressing complex topics.

For the organizers, the conference is more than a professional activity. It is a way to maintain connection, support one another, and strengthen the community during difficult times. Each year, the USTA organizes supportive events for both Ukrainian and international audiences while continuing to run large-scale educational programs.

Acknowledgements

The event was supported by Honorary Members of USTA: John McNeel (USA), Harry Gerth (the Netherlands), Tony White (Australia), Roxana Yashchuk (Ukraine), Nataliia Isaiieva (Ukraine), Denys Starkov (Ukraine), and Mariia Fabricheva (Ukraine).

The USTA community was also honored by the presence and support of friends and colleagues: Dr. Sylvia Schachner (Austria), Karen Minikin (the United Kingdom), Marina Hoos (the Netherlands), Alina Comendant (Romania), Adam Bekier (Poland), Jeanette Wygoda-Klute (Germany), Alva Ramírez-Villatoro (Mexico), Jan Honza Šimek (Czech Republic), and Priyanka Lenka (India).

Sincere appreciation is extended to the Honorary Members of USTA. John McNeel, M.Div., Ph.D., of the International Transactional Analysis Association (ITAA), has supported Ukrainian professionals since the beginning of the war, personally participating in gatherings and offering monthly charitable online meetings.

Heartfelt gratitude is also extended to Tony White, TSTA-P-ITAA (Australia), for his ongoing support and his contribution to the education of transactional analysts in Ukraine for the past six years.

Sincere thanks go to Harry Gerth, MSc, TSTA-O from the European Association for Transactional Analysis (EATA), for his support of the community and for advancing the development of TA in the organizational field in Ukraine. His educational contributions are valued for being thoughtful, well-structured, and practice-oriented.

Gratitude is also expressed to colleagues and friends who have supported the conference for six years by offering engaging workshops, including Sylvia Schachner, TSTA-E-EATA (Austria), and Karen Minikin, TSTA-P-EATA (United Kingdom).

Among the Ukrainian speakers were respected professionals: Nataliia Yehonska-Spencer, Ganna Golovan, Serhii Kukharuk, Nataliia Klymenko, Lana Koval, Oksana Feofani, Oleksandr Bondarenko, and Tetiana Skuratovska.