Intimate partner violence is an emotive issue that you may encounter as an added factor to other areas of crisis that GSRD clients bring to therapy. With professional thinking on this topic mostly coming from a heteronormative framework that imposes defined roles and gender stereotypes on victims and perpetrators, you may find yourself challenged as a Counsellor, Therapist or Mental Health Professional by the complexities and differences that can present with the GSRD client group.
Pink Therapy’s Intimate Partner Violence in GSRD Relationships online-learning CPD module outlines a framework for understanding GSRD clients in the context of their relationships, the specific minority stresses that may have an impact on them and the physiological processes that influence responses and behaviour as a result of trauma. With safety as a starting point for your therapeutic approach, you’ll be encouraged to consider optimistic ways of working underpinned by recognition of responsibility and deep commitment to change. You’ll also be supported to consider the impact of your own experiences and responses to client material to acknowledge your self-care needs as a therapist engaged in reflective clinical practice.
Learning goals for this 15-hour CPD module are:
1. The unique qualities and differences of GSRD IPV to heterosexual DV;
2. How IPV differs between the different sexualities, genders and relationship structures;
3. To explore how practitioners might work with GSRD IPV in practice, and
4. The impact of IPV and increasing practitioners' self-awareness to its presence.
The module consists of three parts:
Part 1 will give you an opportunity to assess your current knowledge and awareness of this issue and to consider how your present frame for understanding partner violence may be informed by a heterosexual lens. This is an invitation to acknowledge blind spots and to review gaps in your knowledge and practice when confronted by this emotive subject.
Part 2 will provide specific information around survivor experience that is linked to a particular gender identity or sexuality.
Part 3 will cover safety planning/risk management and enhance your understanding of the risks clients face when they seek to leave their abusive relationships.
You will receive a Certificate of Study worth 15 hours CPD credit from Pink Therapy if you submit and pass a tutor-marked assignment.
About the Author:
Dr. Sarah Head is a Consultant Counselling Psychologist and Service Lead for a busy Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service in London. On the topic of LGBT Intimate Partner Violence (hereafter, IPV), she has presented at conferences, provided training for Women’s Aid Scotland, has written peer reviewed journal articles, and authored a book chapter with a focus on Bisexual IPV.
