Black Women Therapists One-Day Online Conference 2024

BlackWomen TherapistsUK

BlackWomen TherapistsUK

Challenging the Strong Black Woman Archetype

Welcome to the 1st ever BWTOC UK. Hosted by Mary Pascall and Tonia Mihill, in collaboration with onlinevents.co.uk, This essential event is a celebration of the contributions of Black women therapists practising in the UK.

The theme for the conference is borrowed from your BWTOC UK 24 Host Mary Pascall’s popular online workshop – ‘Black Women Therapists: Challenging the Strong Black Woman Archetype’, part of Mary’s ‘Race, Culture and You' collection.

Come meet some of the most innovative Black women practitioners, service providers and their supporters in the UK, offering an array of experiential workshops challenging the ‘Strong Black Woman’ schema. This is a rare and wonderful opportunity to connect, share experiences and learn from one another – in a spirit of care and celebration. BWTOC UK 24 BWTOC UK 24

colleagues time and space

Showcasing

Listen as Black women practitioners share their narratives and celebrate their achievements.

Discussion

Self-care

Explore the benefits of a range of therapeutic approaches –poetry, yoga, music, drama, mindfulness and more.

Theory, practice and what it means to be a Black woman therapist or counselling trainee in the UK.

Networking

Form new connections, promote your practice, share ideas and build a community.

BlackWomen TherapistsUK

Challenging the Strong Black Woman Archetype

Mary Pascall

Psychotherapeutic Counsellor, Anti-Racism

Advocate and Group Facilitator, Tutor, Mentor

Hello and welcome. I’m Mary, your BWTOC UK 24 Host. I’m a psychotherapeutic counsellor, group facilitator and mentor in private practice, registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and with the Black African and Asian Therapy Network (BAATN). I’m also an associate tutor for the post-graduate diploma in person-centred counselling at The Norwich Centre, Norfolk, UK Specialising in working with transcultural issues through a personcentred lens, my approach is relational, racial justice allied and social justice allied. Within my practice, I offer counselling for adults, mentoring for counselling trainees and, as a group facilitator, a tailored programme of online and in-person workshops offering an enabling space, in which participants can explore the impact of race and culture on well-being within the current climate, the context of their work, training or supervision

The theme for BWTOC UK 24 is borrowed from my online workshop – ‘Black Women Therapists: Challenging the Strong Black Woman Archetype’, which was first delivered on the onlinevents.co.uk cpd platform in February 2023. I’m delighted to be collaborating with colleagues, supported by onlinevents.co.uk, for this 1st Ever conference. I look forward to meeting with you.

BlackWomen TherapistsUK

Challenging the Strong Black Woman Archetype

Tonia Mihill

Anti-Racist Trainer, Author, Head of Therapeutic Services

Hello, I’m Tonia, Co-Host for BWTOC UK 24. I’m a British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) accredited counsellor and I work as head of therapeutic services at MAP, a youth charity based in Norfolk, UK. I qualified as a person-centred counsellor in 2007 and have devised, and delivered, anti-racist training since the mid-nineties. I am a member of the Black, African and Asian Therapy Network (BAATN) with whom I have been a mentor since 2016 My counselling practice is situated in the context of a lifelong, active commitment to personal and community development, global justice and equality.

I am author of the chapter ‘Effective AntiRacist Practice in Counselling and Therapy Training’ in 'Therapy in Colour: Intersectional, AntiRacist and Intercultural Approaches by Therapists of Colour’ (2023, Jessica Kingsley Publishers) I’m pleased and excited to be Co-Host for the 1st Ever BWTOC UK. I’ll also be facilitating a 45- minute Salon, championing Rest as Resistance.

BlackWomen TherapistsUK

Challenging the Strong Black Woman Archetype

PROGRAMME PROGRAMME

10:00 - 10:20 AM Welcome & Introductions

10:20 - 10:50 AM Studios - Choose one of three 30-minute ‘warm-up’ sessions - View Sessions Here

10:50 - 11:00 AM

Return and check in. Make one selection from ‘Salons’ 1 and 2 View Salon details here

11:00 - 11:45 AM Salons 1 and 2 - (45 mins)

11:45 - 11:50 AM

Return and check in. Make one selection from ‘Salons’ 3 and 4 View Salon details here

11:50 - 12:35 PM Salons 3 and 4 - (45mins)

12:35 - 1:35 PM BREAK

1:35 - 1:45 PM Check in Make one selection from ‘seminars’ View Seminar details here

1:45 - 3:15 PM Seminars 1 to 6 (90 minutes)

3:15 - 3:25 PM BREAK

3:25 - 4:20 PM ‘Drop-by’ Open Forum - facilitated by Mary Pascall and Tonia Mihill

4:20 - 4:30 PM Close

BWTOC UK 24 BWTOC UK 24

STUDIOS

BlackWomen TherapistsUK

Challenging the Strong Black Woman Archetype

STREAM 1

STREAM 2

STREAM 3

STUDIOS STUDIOS

Charmaine Pollard - Poetry Therapy Studio: ‘Who Am I?

Natalie Morrison - Music Therapy: Embracing Cultural Language

Georgina Evans - Yoga Studio: Mind and Body in Motion

STUDIO

CharmainePollard Poetry Therapy Studio:

‘Who Am I?’

Experienced counsellor, life coach, poetry therapist and author Charmaine Pollard invites you todiscover your potential in a dynamic 30-minute poetry word play studio workshop.

‘Words mean more than what is set down on paper. It takes the human voice to infuse them with deeper meaning.’ Maya Angelou

Have you ever asked yourself ‘Who am I?’ and felt that you were able to answer truthfully? Writing can play a powerful role in our journey of selfdiscovery; opening the door on an internal world – our motivations, thought patterns and range of resources. Join Charmaine’s studio to begin your journey.

This session will not be recorded What to expect: a reflexive approach a supportive space optional show and tell What you will need: Writing/drawing materials.

CharmainePollard

Counsellor, Life Coach, Poetry Therapist, Author

Hello, I’m Charmaine, a British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) accredited counsellor, life coach and certified poetry therapist (International Federation for Biblio/Poetry Therapy, USA) based in London, UK. I have worked in the violence against women and girls (VAWG) sector for over 20 years, and as director of Panoramic Counselling & Wellbeing, a company providing trauma-informed counselling and holistic service to survivors of domestic abuse and sexual violence.

My work has included the implementation of therapeutic writing programmes in a wide range of settings – clinical, institutional and community. Following the murder of George Floyd, I have co-led a series of therapeutic workshops entitled ‘Every Poem Breaks a Silence’, with writer and poetry therapist Dr Victoria Field. I am also author of the poetry well-being workbook ‘Writing for Resilience: Finding the Courage to Bounce Back’ (2021). For BWTOC UK 24, I am contributing a 30-minute Poetry Word Play Studio, plus a 90-minute Seminar offering you a Poetry Therapy Experience.

STUDIO

Natalie Morrison Music Therapy:

Embracing Cultural Language

This session will not be recorded

In this informative 30-minute studio workshop, music therapist, teacher and performer Natalie Morrison will introduce you to her practice of cultural music therapy.

How important is music to you? Have you heard of music therapy and what do you know about music therapy in the UK? Music therapist Natalie Morrison recognises the significance of cultural music for well-being. Join Natalie’s studio to find out.

What to expect:

an introduction to culturally sensitive music therapy

Natalie’s perspective on facilitating music therapy as a Black woman the use of music therapy to meet the needs of children and young people

What you will need:

Writing/drawing materials.

NatalieMorrison

Music Therapist, Primary School Teacher, Private Tutor, Performing Musician

Hello, I’m Natalie. I’m a registered Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) practitioner, recently qualified as a music therapist in private practice, based in Nottinghamshire, UK. I am also a primary school teacher, private tutor and music therapist for Music Works, a UK registered charity. Since completing my MA in Music Therapy at the University of South Wales, UK, my work has been predominantly with children and young adults with special educational needs (SEN). I also support children in mainstream schools who have experienced trauma. I

’m passionate about Culturally Sensitive Music Therapy and I believe that music therapy should be accessible to all – all cultures, all backgrounds. My approach puts the client’s needs at the forefront, working with their cultural references. My instrument is keyboard/piano and I have performed in churches, concerts and accompanied gospel choirs. I’m excited to be participating in BWTOC UK 24, offering a 30-minute Studio exploring Facilitating Music Therapy as a Black Woman and co-facilitating with colleague Leah Inman for a 45-minute Salon – Music Matters: Silenced Identities.

STUDIO

Georgina Evans Yoga Studio: Mind and Body in Motion

This session will not be recorded

A treat for both body and mind – art psychotherapist and yoga teacher

Georgina Evans will lead a 30-minute yoga/mindfulness studio.

Yoga and mindful movement are embedded in Georgina’s therapeutic practice which she describes as ‘embodied creative self-enquiry’. Join Georgina to see how this approach could work for you.

What to expect:

an introduction to psychological and embodied well-being yoga therapy practice no previous experience necessary. movement at your own pace suggested next steps

What you will need: an open mind and body comfortable clothing a suitable space

Georgina Evans

Art Psychotherapist, Supervisor, Author, Attachment-Based Psychotherapist (in training)

Hello, I’m Georgina, a registered Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) art psychotherapist, supervisor, yoga therapist, mindfulness teacher, group facilitator and artist. I have significant experience of holding safe space for individuals and groups in various settings, including secondary education, local authority adoption support services and charities supporting women and girls with overcoming experiences of gender trauma. I have delivered art psychotherapy, psychology and creative arts training at undergraduate and post-graduate levels. Currently I work as an art psychotherapist in NHS adult mental health services and I have a small private practice in South London, UK.

I am author of ‘Skin to Paper: The body in art psychotherapy’, in ‘Intersectionality in the Arts Psychotherapies’ (2022,. Jessica Kingsley Publishers. Through what I like to call ‘embodied creative self-enquiry’, I aim to encourage psycho-physiological health, wellbeing and enjoyment, for the public, individual clients, mental health professionals and other support workers. I’m delighted to be participating in BWTOC UK 24 with a 30-minute Yoga Therapy Studio Warm-Up and a 90-minute experiential Seminar questioning: ‘Who do you think you are?’Creative Self Enquiry: Meeting each other – meeting ourselves.

https://www.counselling-directory.org.uk/counsellors/georgina-evans

SALONS1&2

BlackWomen TherapistsUK

Challenging the Strong Black Woman Archetype

STREAM 1 Nigel Wilkes - Perceptions: Responses to African-Caribbean Hair that Impact Mental Health

STREAM 2

Joy Langley - Private Practice: Are You Minding Your Own Therapy Business?

Nigel Wilkes SALON Perceptions:

Responses to AfricanCaribbean Hair that Impact Mental Health

This session will not be recorded

In this 45-minute salon session, Nigel Wilkes will introduce you to the work of ADIRA, including a ground-breaking short film, entitled ‘Weave’. Featuring a predominantly Black Northern UK team, the film is currently doing the rounds of the short film circuit for 2024/25. It explores perceptions of African-Caribbean hair – both past and present – and the impact on the mental health of Black women and girls in the UK.

Nigel co-wrote the film and is Joint Executive Producer. Join him for a behind-the-scenes look at the making of ‘Weave’ and an open discussion about challenging Black hair discrimination in the UK.

What to expect:

an introduction to the work of ADIRA spotlight on the making of the short film, ‘Weave’. identifying Black hair discrimination in the UK. call to Action with Q&A.

Nigel Wilkes

Anti-Racist Trainer, Author, Head of Therapeutic Services

Hello, I’m Nigel. I have worked in adult education for 24 years, including 12 years as a manager. I am now retired and currently volunteer for ADIRA, a survivor-led Black mental health and wellbeing organisation, founded by Ursula Myrie and based in Sheffield, UK. I have been involved in a number of innovative projects led by ADIRA for the African-Caribbean community of Sheffield, most recently as writer and Joint Executive Producer for the short film ‘Weave’, which challenges Black hair discrimination in the UK. Featuring a predominantly Black Northern UK team, the film is currently doing the rounds of the short film circuit for 2024/25. I’m really happy to be representing ADIRA for BWTOC UK 24.

I’ll be presenting a 45-minute Salon introducing the short film ‘Weave’ and challenging Responses to African-Caribbean Hair impacting Mental Health.

SALON

Joy Langley

Private Practice: Are You Minding Your Own Therapy Business?

This session will be recorded (facilitator only)

Emotional intelligence coach and therapist Joy Langley will share her wisdom and guidance in this 45-minute salon, aiming to capture the major obstacles preventing Black women therapists from speaking their truth and the consequences for future income, and well-being.

Through the use of audio, slides and discussion, you will be offered an insight into how historical gender/racial archetypes and narratives impact the confidence, voice, and success, of Black women therapists in private practice in the UK.

What to expect:

the sharing of Joy’s personal journey. an exploration of the impact of the ‘strong Black woman’ archetype on the earning potential of Black women therapists in the UK. altering internalised cultural narratives and building a successful therapy business. call to action with Q & A

What you will need: writing/drawing materials.

Joy Langley

Emotional Intelligence Coach, Speaker.

Psychotherapist, Author

Hello, I’m Joy, a British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) accredited psychotherapist, emotional intelligence coach and speaker, based in Buckinghamshire, UK I am author of the mental health handbook ‘Navigating Stress: How to Find Calm During Stressful Times’ (2021, Welbeck Balance). I experienced five earth-shattering family bereavements within the space of three years. I lost my 23-year-old son to suicide in 2018. I lost my sister and niece in 2020, then Mum and Dad in 2021. Life is about learning to navigate the positive and the negative challenges, right? And growing from the experience?

My therapeutic background literally saved my life, helping me to rebuild my confidence, self-worth and determination. Owning my business therapy story has been a key part of my journey. Being an entrepreneur isn't easy, but I wouldn't give up the independence it affords me, to work for anyone else. I will be sharing my journey with you, for BWTOC UK 24, in a 45-minute Salon, inviting you to re-think your approach to Private Practice and asking: ‘Are You Minding Your Own Therapy Business?’

Website | https://www.joylangley.com

LinkedIn | Joy Langley

SALONS3&4

BlackWomen TherapistsUK

Challenging the Strong Black Woman Archetype

STREAM 1

STREAM 2

Tonia Mihill - Rest as Resistance: Rest Now!

Rayann Ryan - Initiatives: Nurturing Black Women's Mental Health

Tonia Mihill

Rest as Resistance: Rest Now!

This session will be recorded (facilitator only)

An alternative call to action by BWTOC UK 24 co-host Tonia Mihill in this 45-minute salon session. As Tricia Hersey, author of ‘Rest Is Resistance: A Manifesto’ (2022; Little, Brown Spark) says: ‘You were born to heal, to grow, to be of service to yourself and community, to practice to experiment, to create, to have space, to dream, and to connect’.

Expect to share and take away paths and practices to do just that. For it’s time to explore our relationship to work collectively, in terms of the history and current positioning of Black women in UK society, and individually, including the reasons why we can often fail to prioritise rest, even when we understand that it is essential to our health and well-being. Join Tonia for a focus on ‘Rest’ for Black women.

What to expect: an exploration of Black women’s relationship to work. insight as to why many Black women fail to prioritise rest. exchange of supportive practices. the unexpected. What you will need: a comfortable space and any required comforters

Tonia Mihill

Anti-Racist Trainer, Author, Head of Therapeutic Services

Hello, I’m Tonia, Co-Host for BWTOC UK 24. I’m a British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) accredited counsellor and I work as head of therapeutic services at MAP, a youth charity based in Norfolk, UK. I qualified as a person-centred counsellor in 2007 and have devised, and delivered, anti-racist training since the mid-nineties. I am a member of the Black, African and Asian Therapy Network (BAATN) with whom I have been a mentor since 2016.

My counselling practice is situated in the context of a lifelong, active commitment to personal and community development, global justice and equality. I am author of the chapter ‘Effective AntiRacist Practice in Counselling and Therapy Training’ in 'Therapy in Colour: Intersectional, AntiRacist and Intercultural Approaches by Therapists of Colour’ (2023, Jessica Kingsley Publishers). I’m pleased and excited to be Co-Host for the 1st Ever BWTOC UK. I’ll also be facilitating a 45- minute Salon, championing Rest as Resistance.

SALON

Rayann Bryan Initiatives: Nurturing Black Women's Mental Health

This session will be recorded (facilitator only)

Rayann Ryan Founder and CEO of the Thelma Matilda Alves Foundation will share her narrative of the genesis of the foundation ,followed by practical insights into establishing and supporting similar initiatives in the UK, in this 45-minute salon session. Slides and images will be used to showcase the resilience of Black women within the community, celebrating stories of triumph and emphasising the importance of fostering a collective, supportive environment.

Participants will then be invited to engage in a dynamic Q&A session, in which to explore meaningful contributions to the cause.

What to expect:

the story of The Thelma Matilda Alves Foundation. voices from the Community: ‘Struggle and Triumph’. how to establish and support similar community initiatives: key point call to action with Q&A

Rayann Bryan

Founder and CEO, Thelma Matilda Alves Foundation

Hello, I’m Rayann, Founder and CEO of the Thelma Matilda Alves Foundation, a UK mental health charity providing a vital platform for the support and empowerment of Black women in the UK. Another key focus is as a PhD student, investigating the experiences of Black Caribbean mothers and daughters who migrated to the UK during the Windrush era (1950s to1960s).

It’s a joy to be able to contribute to BWTOC UK 24 and I am really looking forward to participating in the discussions. I’ll be introducing you to the work of the Thelma Matilda Alves Foundation and looking at Nurturing Black Women's Mental Health in a 45-minute Salon.

Website | https://www thelmamatildaalvesfoundation com/ Instagram | thelmamatildaalvesfoundation Twitter | @ThelmaMatila

BWTOC UK 24 BWTOC UK 24

SEMINARS

BlackWomen TherapistsUK

Challenging the Strong Black Woman Archetype

STREAM 1

SEMINARS SEMINARS

STREAM 2

Natalie Morrison & Leah Inman - Unsilencing Our Identities: making culture and heritage key in music therapy practice

Georgina Evans - ‘Embodied Creative Self Enquiry’: Meeting Ourselves – Meeting Each Other

STREAM 3

STREAM 4

Charmaine Pollard - Strong Words: experiential poetry therapy with Charmaine Pollard

STREAM 5

Kairo Maynard - From the Strong Life to the ‘Soft Life’: Why Black Women are Looking to Change

STREAM 6

Hycinth Taylor - Mindfulness Taster Session: Discover the power of mindfulness in just 90 minutes

Kiren Khosla, Salma Joosub and Debrina LloydDavies - Roads to Recovery: Healing from Therapy Training

SEMINAR

Natalie Morrison & Leah Inman

Unsilencing Our Identities: Making Culture and Heritage Key in Music Therapy Practice

This session will be recorded (facilitator only)

What do you know about the practice of music therapy within the UK? How are cultural identity and silencing linked and what needs to be taken into consideration when working with clients who have a different cultural heritage to that of the therapist? Music therapists Natalie Morrison and Leah Inman will explore these issues through a cultural-racial lens, in this 90-minute seminar.

Examining the dual concepts of silencing and unsilencing, both literally and figuratively, they will aim to uncover the propensity for cultural identity to be missed within the general practice of music therapy in the UK.

Highlighting genres of music that hold relevance for Black/BIPOC and marginalised groups in society today, Leah and Natalie will invite responses to musical extracts (through writing and/or drawing, and discussion) and to consider how music therapy can move towards a more inclusive practice,

SEMINAR

Unsilencing Our Identities: Making Culture and Heritage Key in Music Therapy Practice

What to expect:

an introduction to the benefits of music therapy

a call for the unsilencing of Black/BIPOC and marginalised groups within music therapy in the UK

cultural musical extracts of different genres

whole/small group work

Q&A session

What you will need:

writing/drawing materials

no knowledge of music or previous experience of music therapy is required

Leah Inman

Music Therapist, Private Music Tutor, Performing Musician

Hello everyone, I’m Leah Inman, a Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registered Music Therapist and a member of the British Association of Music Therapy. I graduated with an MA in Music Therapy with a distinction from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in 2023. I now work with The Nest (Groundwork London) providing music therapy to vulnerable and at-risk children in primary schools in Southwark, South London.

I also offer private music lessons and co-facilitate well-being workshops focusing on music and mental health. Within my practice, I’m dedicated to promoting racial equality and social justice. I’m currently working on publishing a paper centred around race and ethnicity within music therapy in the UK. Performing regularly with small ensembles in London, my instruments are the harp and flute.

LinkedIn | Leah Inman

NatalieMorrison

Music Therapist, Primary School Teacher, Private Tutor, Performing Musician

Hello, I’m Natalie. I’m a registered Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) practitioner, recently qualified as a music therapist in private practice, based in Nottinghamshire, UK. I am also a primary school teacher, private tutor and music therapist for Music Works, a UK registered charity. Since completing my MA in Music Therapy at the University of South Wales, UK, my work has been predominantly with children and young adults with special educational needs (SEN). I also support children in mainstream schools who have experienced trauma. I

’m passionate about Culturally Sensitive Music Therapy and I believe that music therapy should be accessible to all – all cultures, all backgrounds. My approach puts the client’s needs at the forefront, working with their cultural references. My instrument is keyboard/piano and I have performed in churches, concerts and accompanied gospel choirs. I’m excited to be participating in BWTOC UK 24, offering a 30-minute Studio exploring Facilitating Music Therapy as a Black Woman and co-facilitating with colleague Leah Inman for a 45-minute Salon – Music Matters: Silenced Identities.

SEMINAR

Georgina Evans

‘Embodied Creative Self

Enquiry’: Meeting Ourselves – Meeting Each Other

This session will not be recorded

The ‘Strong Black Woman’ archetype presents Black women as physically and mentally robust in the face of both personal and societal challenges, including at the intersection of race and gender oppression. How does this archetype impact you? Your mind, Your body, Your self-expression? I

n this 90-minute experiential seminar, facilitated by art psychotherapist and yoga teacher Georgina Evans, you are invited to explore the archetype of the ‘Strong Black Woman’ through mindful movement, creative selfexpression and the sharing of your experience with others.

Georgina describes her approach as ‘Embodied Creative Self-enquiry’, which aims to encourage psycho-physiological health, well-being and enjoyment. Indulge yourself; there will be no agenda – the emphasis will be on exploring and enjoying the process. Please have image making materials nearby.

SEMINAR

‘Embodies

Creative Self Enquiry’: Meeting Ourselves – Meeting Each Other

What to expect: a reflexive and creative space an introduction to ‘Creative Self Enquiry’ movement at your own pace

image-making materials group sharing of experience

What you will need: an open mind and body

comfortable clothing and a suitable space

image-making materials of your choice no previous experience is required

Georgina Evans

Art Psychotherapist, Supervisor, Author, Attachment-Based Psychotherapist (in training)

Hello, I’m Georgina, a registered Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) art psychotherapist, supervisor, yoga therapist, mindfulness teacher, group facilitator and artist. I have significant experience of holding safe space for individuals and groups in various settings, including secondary education, local authority adoption support services and charities supporting women and girls with overcoming experiences of gender trauma. I have delivered art psychotherapy, psychology and creative arts training at undergraduate and post-graduate levels. Currently I work as an art psychotherapist in NHS adult mental health services and I have a small private practice in South London, UK.

I am author of ‘Skin to Paper: The body in art psychotherapy’, in ‘Intersectionality in the Arts Psychotherapies’ (2022,. Jessica Kingsley Publishers. Through what I like to call ‘embodied creative self-enquiry’, I aim to encourage psycho-physiological health, wellbeing and enjoyment, for the public, individual clients, mental health professionals and other support workers. I’m delighted to be participating in BWTOC UK 24 with a 30-minute Yoga Therapy Studio Warm-Up and a 90-minute experiential Seminar questioning: ‘Who do you think you are?’Creative Self Enquiry: Meeting each other – meeting ourselves.

Website https://www.counselling-directory.org.uk/counsellors/georgina-evans

SEMINAR

Charmaine Pollard

Strong Words: Experiential Poetry Therapy

This session will be recorded (facilitator only)

Poetry therapy uses the written word to promote healing and growth. By writing and reflecting on our own words, and in response to poetry, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and, in turn, prepare for meaningful change. Research of the last 30 years has found links between writing, health and well-being.

In this 90-minute experiential seminar, counsellor, life coach and poetry therapist Charmaine Pollard will focus on emotive meaning and identity.

Charmaine will guide us through a range of practical exercises, offering prompts for self-reflective writing, including an extract from the work of a Black woman poet, to spark conversation and uncover insights. Join Charmaine for this poetry therapy experience.

SEMINAR

Strong Words: Experiential Poetry Therapy

What to expect:

an introduction to the benefits of poetry therapy suggested tools for engaging with poetry therapy self-reflective writing an exploration of the impact of ‘close’ poetry reading whole/small group work

What you will need:

writing/optional drawing materials no previous experience of expressive writing or poetry is required

CharmainePollard

Counsellor, Life Coach, Poetry Therapist, Author

Hello, I’m Charmaine, a British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) accredited counsellor, life coach and certified poetry therapist (International Federation for Biblio/Poetry Therapy, USA) based in London, UK. I have worked in the violence against women and girls (VAWG) sector for over 20 years, and as director of Panoramic Counselling & Wellbeing, a company providing trauma-informed counselling and holistic service to survivors of domestic abuse and sexual violence.

My work has included the implementation of therapeutic writing programmes in a wide range of settings – clinical, institutional and community. Following the murder of George Floyd, I have co-led a series of therapeutic workshops entitled ‘Every Poem Breaks a Silence’, with writer and poetry therapist Dr Victoria Field. I am also author of the poetry well-being workbook ‘Writing for Resilience: Finding the Courage to Bounce Back’ (2021). For BWTOC UK 24, I am contributing a 30-minute Poetry Word Play Studio, plus a 90-minute Seminar offering you a Poetry Therapy Experience.

Kairo Maynard

From the Strong Life to the ‘Soft Life’: Why Black Women are Looking to Change

This session will be recorded (facilitator only)

The ‘Strong Black Woman’ trope is one of many that Black/BIPOC women have tailored in order to function within and survive a challenging society. Revered for decades and worn by many as a badge of honour, more recently, the ‘Strong Black Woman’ title is being identified as burdensome and being rejected (at pace, due to social media) in preference for a ‘Soft Life’.

This 90-minute seminar, facilitated by dramatherapist and TAPP practitioner Kairo Maynard, offers a space in which to consider the shift from ‘Strong Black Woman’ to ‘Soft Life’ and how this new life approach serves Black/BIPOC women in UK society ,and shapes their identities.

What to expect: history of the ‘Strong Black Woman’ archetype reflections on the shift from ‘Strong Black Woman’ to ‘Soft Life’ exercises to explore the need and function of both ways of being research findings group discussion

What you will need: writing/optional drawing materials

Kairo Maynard

Dramatherapist, TAPP Practitioner, Author

Hello, I’m Kairo. I'm an (HCPC) registered dramatherapist and a British Psychoanalytic Council (BPC) registered Time-limited Adolescent Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (TAPP) practitioner, based in London, UK. I work in a Community NHS Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service and I am currently completing a doctorate. I also write and speak about intergenerational trauma and attachment, racial injustice and health inequalities for Black and other marginalised communities.

My work includes: ‘Can Dramatherapy help Black women discover their true self despite racial and gender oppression?’ (2018, Dramatherapy Journal); “As a Black therapist, I want to see action come out of mental health awareness discussions” (online, 2019, Mental Health Today); ‘A Black Therapist Sees Herself: Exploring sameness and difference in the dramatherapy room’, in ‘Intersectionality in the Arts Psychotherapies’ (2022,. Jessica Kingsley Publishers. I’m passionate about improving the visibility of Black, Asian and other minority therapists and trainees in the UK.

So I’m delighted to be contributing BWTOC UK 24. I’m offering a 90minute experiential Seminar exploring ‘The Soft Life’ as an alternative to the ‘strong Black woman’ schema.

Hycinth Taylor

Mindfulness Taster Session: Discover the Power of Mindfulness in just 90 minutes

This session will be recorded (facilitator only)

Tired of feeling stressed, overwhelmed and constantly on the go? Struggling to focus on the present moment amidst the chaos of everyday life? If you’ve answered ‘yes’, then this 90-minute experiential seminar is for you.

Facilitated by Hycinth Taylor, an experienced mindfulness teacher and integrative psychotherapist, this session is designed to help you experience the incredible benefits of mindfulness, including reduced stress levels, increased relaxation and improved overall well-being. Join Hycinth for this taster session.

What to expect:

an introduction to the benefits of mindfulness practice suggested mindfulness techniques to quiet your mind, increase focus and gain clarity. a guided mindfulness session a more relaxed you What you will need: comfortable clothing a comfortable space

Hycinth Taylor

Integrative Psychotherapist, Mindfulness Teacher, Supervisor, Counselling Training Lead

Hello, I’m Hycinth, a British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) registered Integrative Psychotherapist, MBCT registered mindfulness teacher, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction(MBSR) registered and British Association of Mindfulness Based Approaches (BAMBA) registered mindfulness practitioner in private practice. I have over 30 years experience of working within psychological disciplines. My work incudes my role as Head of the Diploma in Counselling at The Minster Centre, London, UK, in addition to supervisory roles at Headstrong Counselling and The Mary Ward Centre, London. Having trained with the Mindfulness in Schools Project (MiSP) and Oxford Mindfulness Centre, I facilitate mindfulness in schools and other non-clinical settings.

Using the body as a guide to inform my work, my approach is grounded in calmness and ease in the face of life's challenges, walking alongside diversity. I’m pleased to be joining you all for BWTOC UK 24 and I’’m looking forward to contributing a 90-minute Salon – On Discovering Mindfulness: a Taster Session.

Websites

https://www.harmonytheraputicservice.com https://www.counselling-directory.org.uk/memberarticles/what-is-clinicalsupervision

Kiren Khosla, Salma Joosub, & Debrina Lloyd-Davies Roads to Recovery: Healing from Therapy Training

This session will be recorded (facilitator only)

There is mounting research pointing to the impact of the scant address given to race and culture within counselling training curriculums in the UK. Black/BIPOC trainees are having to engage in Eurocentric and colonialist approaches, from which they are excluded, and Black/BIPOC women in training are being confronted by the inevitable misogynoir ingrained within such approaches.

This 90-minute seminar offers a supportive space in which to share and understand the emotional challenges for Black/BIPOC women embarking on counselling training in the UK. Facilitated by experienced counsellors and mentors Kiren Khosla and Salma Joosub, with a contribution from counsellor and mentor Debrina Lloyd-Davies.

Kiren Khosla

Counsellor, Mentor, Support Worker, Author

Hello, I’m Kiren. I’m a British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) accredited person-centred counsellor in private practice and a single, disabled mum of 3 boys. I am also a Mentor and Support Worker within the Black, African and Asian Therapy Network’s (BAATN) Each One Teach One (EOTO) Programme.

My work is with clients and mentees experiencing trauma and discrimination within the workplace and in educational settings, including counselling training institutions and placements. A self-penned account of my survival of explicit racism in counselling training, entitled ‘Counsellor Training and Beyond’ is published in 'Therapy in Colour: Intersectional, Anti-Racist and Intercultural Approaches by Therapists of Colour’ (2023; Jessica Kingsley Publishers).

I look forward to meeting you for BWTOC UK 24. Alongside colleagues Salma Joosub and a contribution from Debrina Lloyd-Davies, I will be presenting a 90-minute Seminar exploring the experiences of Black and BIPOC trainee therapists Healing from Therapy Training.

Salma Joosub

Psychotherapist/Counsellor, Executive Trustee

Hello, I’m Salma, a qualified integrative psychotherapist/counsellor working primarily with addiction. I am also Executive Trustee for a counselling charity, where I offer support for depression, anxiety, trauma and abuse. Speaking several languages, including Gujarati, Urdu, Hindi, Kutchi and English, In addition, I offer counselling for domestic abuse at Nottingham Women’s Centre. I hold a MSc in Counselling from the University of Northampton and a Diploma in Alcohol and Drug Misuse.

My professional memberships include the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), accredited registration with the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS), membership of Addictions Professionals and of the Black, African and Asian Therapy Network (BAATN). I mentor for BAATN’s Each One Teach One mentoring programme for Black/BIPOC counselling trainees.

BWTOC UK 24 feels much needed. I am looking forward to presenting a 90minute seminar with colleague Kiren Khosla, with a contribution from counsellor and supervisor Debrina Lloyd-Davies, exploring the experiences of Black and BIPOC trainee therapists Healing from Therapy Training.

Debrina Lloyd-Davies

Therapist, Supervisor, Mentor

Hello, I’m Debrina, a British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) accredited and National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS) member therapist and supervisor in private practice. I am also a mentor within the Black, African and Asian Therapy Network’s (BAATN) Each One Teach One (EOTO) Programme.

Previously in law, advocacy and mediation, I have been working in educational settings, NHS/community addiction services and within the charitable sector, supporting parents and carers. My practice is focused on the person-centred approach, humanistic philosophies, and psychodynamic perspectives.

I have a special interest in exploring the impact of the environment and intergenerational lived experience on cultural identity, and I am a campaigner for social justice initiatives highlighting prejudice, oppression, racism, inequality and discrimination.

For BWTOC UK 24, I am contributing to a 90-minute Seminar exploring the experiences of Black and BIPOC trainee therapists Healing from Therapy Training, facilitated by Salma Joosub and Kiren Khosla.