While there has been a far-reaching movement to de-stigmatize the LGBTQ+ community in psychotherapy, the same considerations have not yet been applied to BDSM practitioners. This under-studied population risks great psychological and practical harm in disclosing their kink identity to biased therapists, which, at best, can cause a delay in the therapeutic process and at worst can cause relational trauma for clients who experience this rupture. This webinar will help therapists understand and become better equipped to support their kinky clients through learning key concepts about the BDSM community, discerning the difference between kink and abuse, and become familiar with common clinical concerns and strategies for working with this population.
At the conclusion of this webinar, participants will be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of key terms and concepts of Kink/BDSM.
- Differentiate between various practices within the community.
- Identify diverse demographics of individuals who engage in BDSM.
- Evaluate the clinical implications of recognizing Kink/BDSM as a legitimate sexual orientation in the therapeutic settings.
- Explain a variety of reasons BDSM appeals of clients.
- Outline key safety practices and protocols within the Kink/BDSM community.
- Develop skills to differentiate between consensual Kink/BDSM practices and abusive behaviors.
- Provide strategies to support clients in maintaining safe and consensual practices.
- Advocate for the destigmatization of Kink/BDSM within both clinical and broader societal contexts, reflect on personal biases and assumptions about Kink/BDSM.
- Develop approaches to support clients in coping with stigma and discrimination.
1:00 pm Welcome/Introductions
1:10 pm BDSM 101
- Cultural Beliefs & Biases
- Sex Positivity
- Exploring our Biases
- Who is Kinky?
- Why do people practice kink?
2:15 pm STIGMA & IDENTITY
- Sexual Identity Development
- Coming Out Theory
- Minority Stress
- Kink & the DSM
3:20 pm THERAPIST BIAS & CLINICAL CONCERNS
- Provider Bias
- Consent & Negotiation
- Discerning Abuse VS BDSM
- Clinical Applications
3:50 pm Conclusion/Q&A