Clinical Practice with Individuals in the Kink/BDSM Communities

This workshop will provide participants with an introduction to working clinically with clients who identify as kinky and/or practice BDSM. Learning objectives will focus on three different types of learning necessary to build confidence in working with this population; the workshop will start with an introduction to common interests and practices in the Kink/BDSM community and provide an opportunity to reflect on feelings/assumptions/biases about this population through an image/definition exposure exercise. Following reflective group discussion, participants will engage in a self-reflective exercise to encourage them to look inwards and acknowledge personal/internal challenges related to kink/BDSM activities. The workshop will conclude with the opportunity to apply new knowledge to clinical situations through role plays, case scenarios, and discussion of clinical and ethical considerations in practice. The workshop’s goal is to increase participant’s confidence, knowledge, and applicable skills to aid them in creating a safe space for their diverse clients.

Facilitated by Joy D. Saniyah, Ph.D & Fitz (S. Fitzgerald), LMSW, CST

For more information or questions please email: education@integrativeempowerment.com

This course is approved by the Michigan Social Work Continuing Education Collaborative-Approval #   011819-03

The Collaborative is the approving body for the Michigan Board of Social Work