**A one-hour professional development workshop for hypnotherapists, counsellors and coaches**

Being welcoming is a good start. But what does it really mean to be an LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist?

Displaying a rainbow flag, using inclusive language and treating everyone with respect are important, but genuine affirmative practice goes much deeper. It means understanding how identity, minority stress, stigma and lived experiences can shape a client's wellbeing, relationships and sense of self, as well as knowing how to respond in ways that genuinely make a difference.

In this engaging and thought-provoking workshop, Daniel Browne, The Mind Bender, explores the difference between simply accepting LGBTQ+ clients and actively creating an affirmative therapeutic experience.

We'll look at the assumptions that can creep into therapeutic practice, the subtle ways clients may feel misunderstood or invalidated, and how even well-intentioned therapists can unintentionally create barriers to trust. Most importantly, we'll explore practical ways to make your approach more inclusive, responsive and effective, whether you work in hypnotherapy, counselling or coaching.

**You'll discover how to:**

- Recognise the difference between being LGBTQ+ friendly and genuinely affirmative.

- Identify common assumptions and unconscious biases that can affect therapeutic relationships.

- Better understand the impact of stigma, minority stress and identity-related experiences on clients.

- Create a therapeutic environment where LGBTQ+ clients feel safe to be themselves.

- Adapt your language, questions and interventions to avoid unintended invalidation.

- Respond constructively when you make a mistake or are unsure what to say.

This isn't about getting every word right or being afraid of making mistakes. It's about developing the awareness, confidence and practical skills to work more effectively with the people who trust you with their stories.

**Go beyond being welcoming. Become the therapist who helps LGBTQ+ clients feel genuinely seen, understood and supported.**

_Suitable for hypnotherapists, counsellors, psychotherapists, coaches and other helping professionals who want to develop their LGBTQ+ affirmative practice. No previous specialist training is required._

Description supplied by the event organiser.