Join us in being a part of an inspiring gathering of group leaders and all those passionate about group work! We invite you to submit a proposal for our 2025 Eastern Group Psychotherapy Society Annual Conference as we explore the theme “Navigating Differences: Authenticity, Self Expression and Restorative Practices in Groups.” In a time of deep social and cultural division, differences in groups can create tension, disconnection, and isolation. By fostering authentic expressions of thoughts, feelings and experiences, groups can transform these challenges into opportunities for connection, healing, meaning and growth. Our Annual Conference will explore how fear and panic hinder authentic self-expression, how misunderstandings can feel like interpersonal ruptures resulting in harm and disconnection, and how group work provides an opportunity to value differences while increasing tolerance for missattunements. Together we will grapple with essential, complex questions: How do we navigate the line between engaging in difficult conversations and causing harm? How can we encourage authentic self-expression while honoring the boundaries of others? Our groups can help members cultivate meaningful connections within a framework that preserves safety, integrity, and personal autonomy. We welcome proposals that also explore how groups deepen our understanding of ourselves and others, allowing us to navigate differences with greater awareness and intention, and that examine how group dynamics shape our choices—how we engage with one another, practice restoration and accountability, contribute to our communities, and connect with the world around us.