Setting Boundaries as a Therapist - Talking Respectfully about Sexuality and Gender Identity

In Episode 201 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly return to discuss today's three topics:

'Counselling Foundations' - where today Rory and Ken focus on developing a non-judgemental attitude in therapy.

'Focus on Self' - with how we set our boundaries as a therapist.

And lastly in today's 'Practice Matters', Rory discusses talking respectfully about sexuality and gender identity with Daniel Winstanley.

Non-Judgemental Attitude in Therapy [starts at 1:17 mins]

Developing a non-judgemental attitude is a difficult step in the counselling journey, putting aside the stereotypes that many of us have been encouraged to hold, but in this segment, Rory and Ken discuss the ways we can begin to unravel these prejudices and become less judgemental in the therapy room:

Realising judgement starts from within.

Recognising the person in front of you is a fellow human being.

Acknowledging that views and opinions are a product of our upbringing and experiences; it is a person's right to hold their views and opinions, it is not a fault within them.

Forgiving yourself will make it easier for you to accept others.

You can download a free handout on unconditional positive regard (UPR), which also includes an

Setting Boundaries as a Therapist [starts at 18:17 mins]

While looking into their own boundaries, Rory and Ken outline how setting boundaries is an important step to introduce in your everyday life. Recognising when they're needed, and how best to put them into place.

The ways discussed in which you can begin to set these boundaries and put them into action include:

Knowing your own limits.

Having the courage it takes to hold your boundary.

Ensuring you keep up with your self-care.

Finding and introducing a fixed structure.

Remembering that your boundaries are for you, no one else.

Talking Respectfully about Sexuality and Gender Identity in Therapy [starts at 33:15 mins]

In today's interview, Rory speaks with Daniel Winstanley on talking respectfully about sexuality and gender identity, and the lack of education within this subject during training.

The points highlighted in this talk include:

That clients may find it difficult to broach this subject.

The importance of self-reflection.

Looking into yourself and identifying these internalised messages and stereotypes that you may have picked up through your experiences.

It's important not to ignore the difficult terminology.

Education is key.

Links and Resources

Advanced Certificate in Counselling Supervision

Basic Counselling Skills: A Student Guide

Counsellor CPD

Counselling Study Resource

Counselling Theory in Practice: A Student Guide

Counselling Tutor Shop

Facebook group

Website

Online and Telephone Counselling: A Practitioner's Guide

Online and Telephone Counselling Course