Workshops & Master Classes

Target Audience

The workshop will be relevant to a wide range of professionals such as counsellors, social workers, psychologists, family therapists, and other mental health clinicians. While providing a basis for addressing the introduction of “Competency 7” for psychologists, the focus of this competency has critical relevance to contemporary mental health practice. There will be opportunities for peer consultation in small group activities that participants may be able to log for their ongoing professional development and supervision requirements. 

(New AHPRA Competency 7: Demonstrates a health equity and human rights approach when working with people from diverse groups)

Workshop Overview

This workshop examines the intentional use of evidence in counselling and mental health contexts, while recognizing the complexities of clients’ lived experiences. Using the metaphor of "desire paths"—natural paths shaped by users rather than experts—it helps therapists adapt therapy when evidence is lacking or irrelevant. With numerous modalities claiming effectiveness, and the growing appreciation for understanding diversity, participants will explore ways to critically assess evidence, reflect on their positionality, and balance evidence-based practices with client goals and expertise.

Date: Saturday, August 9th

Time: 9am - 4:30pm

Venue: Quaker House, 10 Hampson St Kelvin Grove, Brisbane, 4059

Class Size: 6-10 participants

Cost: $264 inc morning and afternoon tea (please bring lunch - refrigeration and microwave available)

Parking: Onsite and nearby parking available

Enquiries Contact Louise: Louise@envisionsr.com

Learning Objectives:

1. Critique the Origin and Relevance of Evidence
   Understand the strengths and limitations of evidence-based practice, particularly when evidence is derived from populations that may not match diverse client groups.

2. Explore Complexity and Client Diversity
   Reflect on what it means to work with diverse populations and critically engage with changing identities, terminologies, and self-determination, as a process for understanding therapist positionality and blind spots.

3. Navigate the Gap Between Evidence and Practice
   Develop strategies for clinicians to balance evidence-based expectations with client-driven goals, especially when evidence does not fit a client’s context or lived experience.

4. Incorporate Multiple Therapeutic Ideas

Build capacity to critically engage with and incorporate multiple therapeutic ideas (e.g., trauma-informed care, polyvagal theory, neuroaffirming practices) while privileging client experiences, and recognising the impact of therapist positions.

To book in click the link and choose "class"

https://clientportal.zandahealth.com/clientportal/nk2ta