ABSTRACT
How professionals relate to other individuals and groups on an emotional level is the topic of this chapter. The authors use case studies to exemplify three distinct achievements in this realm. The experience of a school counselor demonstrates how recognizing and respecting one’s own and other people’s values plays an important role in interactions at work, particularly in today’s multicultural environment. The case study of a psychotherapist and her patient examines the difference between facts, assumptions, and opinions, and illustrates why sustainably competent professionals need to distinguish them. In addition, four levels of cooperation – monodisciplinary, multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary, and transdisciplinary – are defined. The chapter concludes with a case study of a Transition Town’s core organizer, who shares his experiences of cooperating with other volunteers to improve transportation options in his community.
