At times, therapists struggle with the question of whether they should see clients from a different race, gender, sexual orientation, or religion. Other types of diversity could be addressed as well, but this set of issues will provide a springboard for the opportunity to consider the broad topic of diversity in therapy sessions. It is important to remember that questions of diversity must be considered within a larger framework of professional competence and responsibility of MFTs vis-à-vis of their clients. Addressing issues of diversity in a group setting can be even more challenging for MFTs. Group therapy dynamics add in multiple layers of complexity when addressing issues of diversity in an ethical manner. Understanding and being able to implement these layers with sensitivity and prudence will provide a safe and therapeutic space for clients. This week’s assignment will challenge you to think about how you might implement the AAMFT Code of Ethics within a group setting with specific attention to the issues of diversity and inclusion. Weekly Resources and Assignments Review the resources from the Course Resources link, located in the top navigation bar, to prepare for this week’s assignments. The resources may include textbook reading assignments, journal articles, websites, links to tools or software, videos, handouts, rubrics, etc. 0 %0 of 1 topics complete Show data table for This chart displays the number of completed topics versus the total number of topics within module Week 4..List of Topics and Sub-Modules for Week 4 Week 4 Assignment: Demonstrate Diversity and Inclusion in Group Therapy Assignment Task: Submit to complete this assignment Due Develop a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for your agency based on the inclusion of LGBTQ clients. You currently offer group support therapy in your outpatient practice. You are writing the SOP to create inclusionary criteria for LGBTQ populations in your support group services. You may use the attached example as a format for your SOP. Based on your readings so far, what would be a support group that would be most needed by this population? Write your SOP for this particular support group (e.g., co-occurring support group, recovery support group, survivor support group). The SOP will focus on providing training for staff and will include culturally sensitive objectives, outcomes, and supporting materials needed to competently treat LGBTQ clients. This will include (but not be limited to) inclusive language, activities, and treatment interventions. The SOP will include how the agency and therapists should address documentation in terms of confidentiality, informed consent, and collaboration with other providers based on clients who participate in a group setting. The SOP should include how to write progress notes and what documentation is needed for group participants paying close attention to issues related to gender identity language and implicit bias. The SOP should include how to write a group treatment plan. The SOP should include how to disseminate information to group participants. Be sure to include how this SOP follows the AAMFT Code of Ethics on the above-stated issues. Conclude your SOP with recommendations for mandatory training resources that staff should participate in before they engage in any client /group treatment.
