In 1995, philosopher and cognitive scientist David Chalmers described consciousness as the “hard problem” of science: how physical brain processes give rise to subjective experience. While the mystery remains unresolved, contemporary research is reshaping how consciousness, agency, and well-being are understood—offering important implications for psychotherapy and mental health practice. This webinar explores the influential work of Eva Jablonka, Marion Lamb, and Simona Ginsburg, whose evolutionary theory of consciousness provides a rich framework for understanding well-being, ill-being, selfhood, and agency across species.

Following a brief introduction to contemporary consciousness research, the webinar will examine four evolutionary dimensions of well-being and ill-being across individuals, societies, and ecosystems; explore Ginsburg and Jablonka’s evolutionary theory of consciousness as an intrinsic mode of being linked to agency and value; and consider the ethical implications arising from broader recognition of consciousness and sentience beyond the human world.

Learning Outcomes

• Gain an accessible overview of current theories of phenomenal consciousness
• Understand four dimensions of well-being and ill-being within an evolutionary framework
• Explore evolutionary perspectives on consciousness, agency, and selfhood
• Consider ethical implications arising from contemporary consciousness research

Venue: Live Webinar  (Zoom registration required. Please check your booking confirmation email).

Date: Wednesday, 9th September, 2026 

Time: 6.30 p.m. to 8.00 p.m. (Sydney/Melbourne/Canberra Time)

Cost: Free (Live Webinar Only)

A$ 19 (Live Webinar &/or Access to Recording for 60 days)

CPD Certificate: 1.5 Hours. CPD certificates are issued to attendees who meet one of the following criteria: attend the live webinar with at least 80% attendance, or watch the webinar recording and complete the associated assessment component.

 About Dr Kevin Keith: Dr Kevin Keith is a counsellor, psychotherapist, supervisor and academic. He has been a therapist for nearly 16 years. He completed his PhD in 2017 at the University of Sydney focusing on theoretical questions around the status of post-infancy preschool developments within Attachment Theory. His academic interests also include emotions research, philosophy of science and the empirical status of longer-term psychotherapy. He also provides professional development to colleagues across several professions. He has been working in the field of mental health since 2005, including 10 years work in the community health sector. Kevin has been teaching counselling In Sydney since 2007.

About eiseEducation: eiseEducation is a global leader in professional development for psychotherapists and mental health practitioners. We offer expert-led webinars, short courses, and training programs designed to deepen clinical skills and support evidence-based practice. With roots in Australia and New Zealand and an expanding global audience, eiseEducation is committed to empowering those who support mental health and emotional well-being around the world. Discover more at eiseeducation.com 

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