Introduction to Kink and Poly-Informed Therapy: Just the Basics | 1 Credit Hour | February 26th | 5:30-6:30PM

Introduction to Kink and Poly-Informed Therapy: Just the Basics 📅 Date: Thursday, February 26th 🕓 Time: 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM EST 📍 Location: Virtual 🎤 Facilitator: Stacy Blankenship, LCSW This interactive training is designed to support mental health professionals in developing foundational competence when working with clients who engage in kink/BDSM and/or consensual non-monogamous (polyamorous) relationships. Participants will explore common misconceptions, examine the impact of shame and stigma within therapeutic relationships, and learn practical strategies for creating affirming, ethical, and client-centered care environments. Emphasis is placed on consent, communication, cultural humility, and reducing provider bias to strengthen the therapeutic alliance. Training Objectives 1. Address Shame and Stigma in Therapeutic Relationships Participants will examine how societal stigma, misinformation, and professional bias related to kink and polyamory can negatively impact treatment outcomes. 2. Explain Basic Kink, BDSM, and Polyamory Definitions and Terminology Participants will gain a foundational understanding of commonly used terms and relationship structures within kink/BDSM and polyamorous communities. 3. Identify Ways to Create a Safe, Kink- and Poly-Affirming Therapy Space Participants will learn at least one concrete strategy to foster psychological safety and trust for kink and poly clients, including the use of inclusive language, affirming intake practices, respectful curiosity, and clear differentiation between clinician values and client goals. 4. Identify Ways to Reduce Kink- and Poly-Related Shame and Stigma Participants will identify at least one actionable intervention to reduce shame and stigma in clinical work. 🎓 2 Credit Hours | ACEP Number: 7925 | ACE 💻 Online format