Greater Philadelphia Chapter of the Employee Assistance Professionals Association

Date:         July 8, 2025                     

Location:  489 Devon Park Drive,

                   Wayne, PA 19087

Title of presentation:  Psychological Safety for LGBTQIA+ Clients

Goals/Objectives:

1. Participants will develop knowledge of the psychological safety challenges of LGBTQIA+ clients

2. Participants will identify how their own attitudes, knowledge, and skills gaps influence the counseling experience for LGBTQIA+ clients

3. Participants will learn Psychological Framework, discussing the ways this framework could be implemented into counseling work.

Name (s), credentials, title, affiliation, and biographical information of presenters pertaining to their background to address the objectives:

Bridget Van Cook, LPC

Bridget D. Van Cook, LPC & doctoral student in Ph.D. Counselor Education and Supervision is a seasoned Clinical & Program Director with a deep-rooted commitment to fostering excellence in clinical programs. With over a decade of experience in mental health, behavioral health, and substance use disorder treatment, she brings a wealth of expertise in clinical supervision and program development eager to elevate clinical standards, optimize service delivery, and drive positive outcomes for clients. She has a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of clinical practice and the importance of nurturing counselor development leveraging evidence-based practices and innovative approaches to create impactful interventions that prioritize client well-being from a trauma-informed perspective.

2.0 Credits: PDH, CEU’s

9:30                 Networking

10:00               Introductions

10:00-12:00    Presentation

Noon               Announcements

12:15-1:00      Board Meeting

Food: Continental Breakfast provided by the Provive Wellness

Overview of Training: 

            Fostering a safe environment for clients is the foundation of building trust in the therapeutic alliance. This is especially critical in supporting individuals identifying as LGBTQ+, a population that often faces systemic challenges in receiving adequate access to healthcare. Creating a safe space for clients intentionally through psychological safety involves a supportive and affirming environment that challenges discrimination and stigma. It involves using inclusive language, avoiding assumptions, and listening to their experiences. Participants will explore psychological safety challenges, identify their own experiences and knowledge base with this population, and learn about the AUI framework for implementation in counseling.