Addressing Microaggressions in the Therapy Room (2 CEU's)

DIVERSITY, IDENTITY & CULTURAL HUMILITY

Addressing Microaggressions in the Therapy Room 2 CEUs

Overview:

Microaggressions—subtle, often unintentional comments or behaviors that communicate bias or invalidation—can significantly impact the therapeutic relationship and client outcomes. In the therapy room, microaggressions may occur between therapist and client, be disclosed by clients as part of their lived experiences, or arise within broader discussions of identity, culture, and systemic oppression. When unaddressed, these moments can lead to rupture, decreased trust, and disengagement from treatment.

In this presentation, Dr. Zairys Feliz, Ph.D., LCSW, will guide participants in recognizing, addressing, and repairing microaggressions within the therapeutic context. Attendees will explore how microaggressions manifest in clinical interactions, including the role of implicit bias, therapist assumptions, and relational dynamics. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the impact of these experiences on clients, particularly those from marginalized communities, and the importance of timely and effective response.

Participants will learn practical, evidence-informed strategies to identify microaggressions in real time, respond with accountability and sensitivity, and engage in meaningful repair when ruptures occur. This training will also address therapist discomfort, common defensive reactions, and how to navigate difficult conversations in a way that strengthens therapeutic alliance and promotes trust.

Objectives:

• Analyze how microaggressions manifest within the therapeutic relationship and impact client outcomes.

• Identify therapist and relational factors that contribute to microaggressions in clinical settings.

• Apply strategies to respond to, address, and repair microaggressions in real time.

Scope and Limitations Disclosure

This course provides licensed mental health professionals with an overview of addressing microaggressions in the therapy room. Participants will learn to recognize and respond to microaggressions using relational and culturally responsive strategies. This training does not provide certification in multicultural counseling and is not a substitute for ongoing education, supervision, and consultation in culturally responsive care. Attendees are expected to apply the material within their professional scope of practice, ethical guidelines, and licensure requirements.

Financial and Commercial Disclosure

The presenter has no relevant financial relationships or conflicts of interest to disclose. Any references to therapeutic models, interventions, or resources are provided solely for educational purposes. Participants are not required to purchase any additional materials to complete this course.

Refund Policy – Pre-Recorded (Self-Study) CE Courses

All purchases of pre-recorded (self-study) CE courses are subject to this refund policy. By enrolling, you agree to these terms. Participants who have not accessed any portion of the course may request a full refund within 7 days of purchase. Once a course has been accessed, streamed, or downloaded, refunds are no longer available due to immediate access to course materials. Refunds will also not be issued to participants who do not complete the course, fail the required post-test, or do not meet participation requirements, as certificates are only awarded upon successful completion. If you experience verified technical issues that prevent access, we will make reasonable efforts to resolve the problem; if it cannot be resolved, a full or partial refund may be issued. If you believe the course did not meet its stated learning objectives, you may submit a written complaint within 7 days of completion for review, and a partial or full refund may be granted at our discretion. All course purchases are non-transferable and may not be shared, resold, or assigned to another individual.