Climate Cafe Listening Circle (CPA)

Program & Host Organization

The Climate Cafe Listening Circle is an initiative of the Climate Psychology Alliance, a not-for-profit organization focused on the psychological dimensions of the climate crisis. The program provides structured spaces for people to talk about their emotional responses to climate change.

Location & Scope

The initiative operates internationally, with activities accessible across Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States, and many other countries. Sessions may take place in various community or online environments, depending on local organizers.

Who It Serves

The Listening Circles serve the general public, including adults and young adults seeking a supportive environment to explore climate emotions. Participants include individuals affected by eco-anxiety, those engaged in climate action, and people looking for community connection around climate concerns.

Climate & Mental Health Focus

The initiative addresses eco-anxiety, grief, fear, uncertainty, and other emotional responses to the climate crisis. It focuses on helping people understand and process these feelings while connecting personal experiences to broader social and ecological contexts. Issues of climate justice and equity are also emphasized.

Activities & Format

Listening Circles use facilitated dialogue, reflective exercises, group-building activities, creative expression, and mindfulness practices. Sessions may include guest speakers, outdoor elements, volunteer engagement, or advocacy components. Formats vary because local groups self-organize using the Climate Psychology Alliance’s framework. Frequency, duration, and attendance models also vary, as groups design their own meeting structures.

Inclusion & Accessibility

Details not provided.

Outcomes & Evidence

The program aims to normalize emotional responses to climate change, strengthen resilience, and build supportive communities. Evaluation, outcome measurement, and evidence sources were not provided.

Guiding Principles

The initiative aligns with principles of emotional processing, resilience building, social connection, climate justice, and collective responsibility. It encourages open expression of climate emotions, shared meaning-making, and supportive dialogue.

Resources & Sustainability

Details not provided.

Team & Partners

The Climate Psychology Alliance supports the initiative, with board-level involvement and contributions from facilitators and volunteers. Specific partner organizations were not identified.

Challenges & Context

Details not provided.