Feminist approaches to psychotherapy mark a major change in how mental health treatment is understood, putting gender, power and social context at the center of psychological concerns.
Traditional models often center on the individual alone. Feminist psychotherapy instead looks broadly at the social structures that shape a person’s experiences and difficulties, recognizing that sexism, racism and classism can affect mental health and well-being.
Because it stresses intersectionality, the feminist approach accepts that people may face several overlapping forms of oppression. Its aim is to help clients gain self-awareness, assertiveness and resilience. Beyond treating symptoms, it builds understanding of the social forces behind mental health struggles and encourages whole-person healing and personal growth.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to
- Describe the main principles of feminist approaches to therapy.
- Explain how feminist approaches therapy view power dynamics.
- Utilize principles of feminism in their therapeutic work with clients.
- Design treatment plans that incorporate feminist approaches.
Syllabus:
Introduction
Objective #1: Describe the main principles of feminist approaches to therapy
- Importance of social factors
- Political factors
- Cultural factors
Objective #2: Explain how the feminist approach to therapy views power dynamics
- The personal is political
- Intersectionality
- Collaborative approach
Objective #3: Utilize principles of feminism in their therapeutic work with clients
- Non-hierarchical focus
- Exploration of power dynamics
Objective #4: Design treatment plans that incorporate feminist approaches
- Treatment plans for self-esteem
- Treatment plans for trauma
Summary/Q&A
Social workers completing this course receive 2 Clinical asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 2 hours of Clinical continuing education training.
Instructor: Dreya Blume, LCSW
Recording Date: March 20, 2025
CEUS On-Demand, LLC, provider #2274, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/7/2026 - 08/6/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 2hrs Clinical continuing education credits.
CEUs On-Demand, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7091. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CEUs On-Demand, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
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Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com