This workshop explores the impact of social class on professional identity, relational dynamics, and belonging. It begins by offering theoretical definitions of class and examining the characteristics of the middle-class therapeutic profession. This is followed by an exploration of the key concept of embodied class prejudice* as well as the conflicts of adaptation and authenticity in navigating class dynamics in relationships.
Participants will engage with a case study and self-reflection to understand how class prejudice shapes therapy access, professional interactions, and career trajectories. Discussions will focus on challenges such as internalised classism, financial barriers, and the unspoken middle-class cultural and knowledge norms that may inadvertently reinforce class-based exclusion.
The workshop concludes with a call to action, equipping attendees with strategies to challenge classism and foster a culture of equality and belonging within the profession.
Presenter: Mamood Ahmad, UKCP Psych.
Mamood Ahmad (he/him) is a UKCP-registered psychotherapist, course tutor, public speaker, and the founder of The Antidiscrimination Focus (TADF). He collaborates with communities, accreditation bodies, training providers, and institutes, employing a whole-person ecological vision to embed the client and social context into psychological curricula, service design, and organisational structures. He is the author of A New Introduction to Counselling and Psychotherapy, published by Routledge. Since 2012, he has run a private therapy practice in Berkshire, England.
Cost: Minimum £5 donation. Please pay what you can, all ticket sales will be donated to the Link Centre's Learners' Access Fund.
Recording: A recording will be available to participants who sign up before the workshop takes place.
Participants: The workshop is aimed at qualified and trainee counsellors and psychotherapists but all are welcome.
Workshop Delivery: Live online.
Recognition: A Link Centre certificate of attendance for 1.5 hours will be presented.
