In an unequal society, social class carries much meaning in how perspectives are shaped and has a significant impact on a person’s material and emotional conditions. What exactly is its impact on mental health? And how does it show up (conscious or unconsciously) in the therapeutic space?
Class of course, intersects with other axes of power and oppression to create complex experiences that we will help our clients untangle in the work. However, if the therapist is not acquainted with the impact of inequalities on people and on themselves, class differences in the therapeutic dyad may constitute at best a barrier to deeper work and at worst, risk of harm for the client.
It is time that we address the deeper intrapsychic and relational processes linked to social class so we can offer safer spaces to our clients and service users.
The aim of this session will be:
- Explore the impact of social class and its intersections on mental health
- Examine how these inequalities relating to class can influence the therapeutic relationship
- Learn how therapists can work towards supporting clients affected by this ethically
The session will last 2h30, including presentation times and space for questions and discussion.
It is aimed at mental health professionals and everyone interested in the links between social class inequalities and mental health.
(This is a live event that will be most beneficial for participants who engage with the material and discussions. It will not be recorded, but a short handout with definitions and references will be provided)
Ticketing options:
Different prices have been offered to cater to varying financial situations. Please choose the ticket that corresponds to your current circumstances.
No one will be turned down due to financial reasons. A small number of tickets have been reserved for trainees, people in financial hardship, or people living and working in the Global South. Please contact me directly using the link in my profile (you can also find it below) to let me know you need access to these tickets and I will be happy to arrange it.
About the facilitator:
Lucia Sarmiento Verano is a humanistic psychotherapist in private practice in Oxford and online. With a background in Sociology and Political Science, she has worked as an anti-racism trainer and consultant with mental health organisations. She has experience delivering training and facilitating reflective discussions around topics of anti-racism and decolonial thinking in mental health. Lucia is now undertaking research on the topics of anti-oppression and resistance as a Ph.D. student at the Birkbeck University of London.
What people have said about Lucia's training events:
" I would recommend, it is an accessible way to gain valuable insight on topics that are essential for counsellors (but sadly not included within most training)" (Addam)
" A good introduction on how mental health and social justice lens can be connected " (Sanika)
" I found it very interesting as well as thought provoking, It feels like Lucia put a lot of thought and consideration in her work. I did not feel alienated in this workshop which has been my experience in some workshops/presentation. "
" I would highly recommend. Lucia's presentation was paced perfectly, she was easy to listen to and understand and therefore I felt engaged and learnt some new things without feeling overwhelmed." (Julie)
