SLUTS
Are you a health provider looking to expand your understanding and provide exceptional care to clients in ethically non-monogamous [ENM] relationships or those engaged in kink practices? Our workshop, SLUTS, is your gateway to becoming a truly affirming, culturally competent professional in today’s evolving world of relational and sexual diversity.
LGBTQ, ENM-kink affirmative therapy may challenge people’s view of what sexual health is but that it’s exactly what science does, challenging preconceived ideas and shed a light where there wasn’t one. As a clinician you may have found yourself uncomfortable at the idea of talking about sex or kink with your clients, thinking that by not doing so you are being “more ethical”. But, isn't sex an intrinsic part of all of our lives? Why should we shy away from talking about it? We want to expand your understanding of sexuality nuances.
Upon successful completion, participants will receive a certification acknowledging their expertise in
Inclusive & Affirming Care for LGBTQ+, Kink-Aware, and ENM-Conscious Communities and their ability to provide informed, empathetic support to individuals within non-normative sexualities.
In case of enquiries, please reach out to us.
Why Are ENM/Kink-Aware Health Professionals Important?
Patients deserve care that understands and respects who they are without judgment or assumptions. Unfortunately, traditional health education often leaves gaps when it comes to ENM and kink lifestyles, which can unintentionally lead to stigma or misunderstandings. This workshop is here to fill those gaps. For those in fields like healthcare, counseling, education, or social work, being knowledgeable about kink, LGBTQ+ and poly-positive practices helps create a more inclusive and supportive environment for clients -and students or staff- who may need it. Understanding these communities can improve interactions and relationships with clients, colleagues, or patients who identify with these groups, leading to better service and care.
In a compulsory monogamous hetero society feeling judged or misunderstood can prevent individuals from seeking necessary medical care; ENM & kink-aware health professionals are VITAL for ensuring that individuals who are part of these lifestyles -or any other type of alternative identity- receive proper, respectful, non-judgmental, and knowledgeable healthcare. Many people who engage in BDSM or kink have experienced discrimination or judgment from healthcare providers who lack understanding of their lifestyle. Kink-aware professionals provide a safe space where patients can discuss their sexual practices and health concerns without fear of stigma or bias; they help to remove this barrier, making healthcare accessible and comfortable.
BDSM and kink activities can involve unique physical and psychological risks, such as injuries from impact play, bondage, or intense emotional experiences. Kink-aware health professionals understand these risks and can provide appropriate care or guidance. For example, they know how to assess bruises or abrasions caused by consensual BDSM play without jumping to incorrect conclusions about abuse or self-harm. This understanding ensures that care is both effective and sensitive to the patient's experiences. Also, and perhaps one of the most important aspects, kink-aware professionals can discuss topics like consent, risk awareness, mental aftercare and legal framework in a knowledgeable way. They can offer guidance or resources to help patients engage in kink safely and responsibly; they are also more likely to be familiar with terms like SSC, RACK, or 4Cs, which allows for more productive conversations about sexual health and safety.
Why Does Mental Health Professionals Awareness Matter?
Sexual health is an essential part of overall well-being, professionals can address concerns in a way that integrates all aspects of a patient's health. These professionals are sometimes the line front of a community who can offer resources and support. LGBTQ+, ENM, Kink-aware health professionals help to empower individuals to explore their sexuality confidently and responsibly while ensuring they have the tools and knowledge to do so safely. By connecting individuals to resources, support networks, and communities where they can find like-minded individuals and further information they are providing a safe space for discussing related issues.
✓ Kink-aware therapists or mental health professionals recognize that LGBTQ or BDSMK is not inherently linked to trauma, dysfunction, or psychological issues.
✓ They treat ENM & BDSMK as a valid form of sexual expression rather than a pathology, which is crucial for the well-being of kink-identified individuals.
✓ Are trained to provide appropriate support without assuming that a person’s kink preferences are a symptom of deeper issues.
✓ They ensure that both physical and emotional needs are met, taking into account how a patient’s kink identity or practices affect their health and lifestyle.
✓ Offer support for navigating sexual identity & relationship dynamics [like polyamory or power exchanges] fostering self-acceptance with a holistic approach to care.
✓ Play a crucial role in educating their peers and advocating for better understanding of BDSMK and alternative sexual practices in the healthcare system. By promoting awareness, they help reduce stigma and improve the quality of care for everyone in the dissident community.
What Will You Gain?
✓ Comprehensive Knowledge: Learn about the diverse forms of ethical non-monogamy, including polyamory, open relationships, and relationship anarchy, as well as the principles of kink dynamics, from consent practices to power exchange.
✓ Cultural Competency: Break down harmful myths and misconceptions about kink and non-monogamy, replacing them with a nuanced understanding of consent, negotiation, and healthy relational practices.
✓ Tools for Non-Judgmental Assessment: Master how to ask questions about relationships and sexuality that are open, safe, and stigma-free, creating an environment where clients feel truly seen and respected.
✓ Practical Approaches for Therapy: Understand how to address common issues ENM and kink clients may bring into therapy, such as communication challenges, jealousy management, and boundary-setting, with sensitivity and effectiveness.
✓ Trauma-Informed & Affirming Practices: Dive into trauma-informed care techniques that specifically address the unique experiences of marginalization and stigma faced by these communities.
✓ Gain a Competitive Edge: Stand out in your field as a knowledgeable, inclusive practitioner who provides high-quality, culturally sensitive care. It’s good for business!
Positive Impact of Health Professionals Awareness
A LGBTQ+/ENM/Kink-aware professional can address specific needs, can develop tailored support services that address the unique needs of individuals who engage in kink or ENM. This might include specialized counseling, educational workshops, or peer support groups. They can provide appropriate resources; can connect individuals with kink-aware legal advisors, and other resources that respect their lifestyle and choices. When individuals are educated about ENM or kink in a positive, informed manner, they can make better choices that align with their desires, boundaries, and well-being.
What Can These Professionals Help With?
Patients trust health professionals with their lives. The moment in which a folk is in front of a health professional is usually the worst day of their life or at least one of crisis, and it’s in that circumstance that they need to trust this stranger with their most intimate life details. Being well-versed in the dynamics of ENM, kink and LGBTQ can greatly improve that interaction. A healthcare professional should strive to:
✓ Reduce Client Anxiety: Help patients to feel comfortable discussing all aspects of their identities and relationships without fear of judgment.
✓ Support Holistic Wellness: Address the mental health needs of ENM and kink clients in a way that acknowledges and affirms their whole selves.
✓ Conflict Resolution: Understanding how to navigate complex sexual-relational dynamics can also improve conflict resolution skills in sexual and romantic relationships.
✓ Reduce Loneliness: For LGBTQ people or folks in the ENM or kink lifestyle, being acknowledged and validated can reduce feelings of isolation and promote mental well-being.
✓ Addressing Shame: Education that includes LGBTQ+ or kink can help individuals overcome internalized shame and guilt associated with their sexual preferences.
✓ Reducing Misconceptions & Misinformation: It helps deconstruct myths and stereotypes that can lead to fear, misunderstanding, and prejudice.
✓ Psychological Health: Acceptance and understanding of one's sexual interests can lead to improved self-esteem, reduced anxiety, and overall better mental health.
✓ Sexual Safety & Satisfaction: Knowledgeable and safe exploration of kinks can lead to greater sexual satisfaction and fulfillment, contributing to overall well-being.
Empower yourself to provide care that goes beyond the norm, care that celebrates and supports the full spectrum of human relationships and experiences. Join us in transforming the way we approach mental and relational health, one conversation at a time.
Register today and become a champion for inclusive, affirming care!
Drop us a line today for a free quote!
