I am committed to anti-oppressive practices in my counselling work. I recognise the power imbalances that exist within society, and I strive to create a safe and inclusive space where individuals feel valued and respected to explore their experiences without fear of judgment or discrimination. I aim to dismantle oppressive structures and challenge biases within myself. I engage in ongoing self-reflection and education to deepen my understanding of intersecting identities and the ways in which privilege and oppression manifest in my practice and ways of being in the world.
The counselling industry has historically marginalised various groups of people over the years. It is important to acknowledge and address the ongoing issues of marginalisation to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for all individuals seeking support.
I am committed to fostering an environment that respects and affirms your identity and experiences. However, I want to be transparent about my limitations. While I have significant experience, I may not have specialised knowledge in areas of identity that may be relevant to your challenges. I recognise that individuals who already face barriers, systemic discrimination, and marginalisation should not be further disadvantaged by my training and knowledge which has developed surrounding research focusing on majority groups.
To address this disparity, I am dedicated to engaging in ongoing self-education throughout our work together. I will adapt my therapeutic models to be more inclusive of your needs. It is important to note that this process of self-education may slightly extend the therapeutic process. However, I firmly believe that this work is worthwhile. I do not feel it is ethical for you to be financially impacted by the additional work I undertake, as this education benefits both me and my future clients. It is appropriate in this circumstance that we re-evaluate the cost of your therapy in recognition of the additional time. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns regarding this approach.
Together, we can work towards your well-being and personal growth, while embracing and celebrating your unique identity.