The AntiDiscrimination Focus (#TADF)

We welcome you to join us for this introduction to working with disability in a helping relationship and therapeutic practice, led by Mark Pengelly, a therapist and tutor with lived experience of disability. The course will be delivered over four sessions, with breaks and lunch included. It will cover a wide range of topics, case studies, and exercises. We have aimed to include as much as possible within the given timeframe, along with opportunities for self-reflection.

Course Overview: This course is designed to provide counseling professionals with an understanding of the complex nature of disability and its impact on individuals, families, and communities. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and reflective practice, participants will learn to navigate the intrapersonal, interpersonal, and contextual effects of disability in their counseling practice.

Course Objectives: At a high level, we will cover:

1. Models of Disability. We’ll discuss the common models and explore what it means to view disability from a Social Model perspective. There will also be discussions in breakout rooms to reflect on these models and whether they are recognizable.
2. Why is it challenging to engage in disability?
    We’ll explore some of the difficult thoughts and feelings we may have around disability. There will be an exercise to see what comes up.
3. Myths. We will look at just a few of the common myths working with disability.  
4. Boundaries. Boundaries are central part of therapy training; we look at how these might become challenging and adjusted.
5. Accessing Therapy. We’ll have a discussion around accessibility and adjustments, exploring what we can do to be more accessible, and examining boundaries with third parties, First Enquiries, and First Sessions.
6. Case studies. We’ll review therapeutic case scenarios and discuss considerations for each.
   

There will be a fun competition during the lunch break, and there might even be a prize for the winner! We'll also have some time for Q&A and course reflection before closing, along with resources for further support.

Biography / Personal statement

Mark Pengelly is a therapist, trainer and group facilitator for Spokz People c.i.c., a non-profit social enterprise providing emotional support for adults with physical disabilities and carers. I have a progressive neurological condition since birth known as Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia, or HSP, and I use a wheelchair part-time. Growing up, I simply couldn't accept the label of 'disabled', so started a war with my condition and legs.  I found my Superman Cape to prove to the world how amazing I was, trying to hide my impairment.  At 40 I had a breakdown and possibly for the first time in my life, asked for help.  I checked into a Rehabilitation Centre: "Hi, my name is Mark and I am an addict". Recovery has given me a new life.  It has been hard work, and I continue to look at myself.  In 2023 I became a qualified counsellor.  I am keen to learn and grow and help educate other therapists in the future.

Audience

Any psychological practitioner such as counsellors, psychotherapists, coaches, wellbeing practitioners and psychologists. It is also suitable for trainees. 

What's included?

Access to online Recording (180 days)

Certificate

About #TADF

#TADF is a network of psychological practitioners who work with individuals, institutions and training providers to embed anti-discrimination practice into their cirriculum and organisation.