We hope you can join us for this session on demystifying BDSM, where we ask: what is it, and why do people do it?
With: Sue Newsome
Date: Sunday 12 October 2025
Time: 10am–1pm
Venue: Relational Spaces, Mulberry Room, Langdale House, 11 Marshalsea Road, London SE1 1EN (2 min walk from Borough Station)
About the topic
As therapists and counsellors, we often meet clients whose lives, fantasies or identities include aspects of BDSM – bondage, discipline, dominance, submission, sadism and masochism. Or you may have noticed that clients never talk about such topics. Many of us were never trained to understand these practices beyond outdated stereotypes or pathology-based frameworks.
This Pluralogue provides a supportive, non-judgmental space to explore the basics of BDSM and how to competently and ethically explore with clients who engage in (or are curious about) consensual power-play practices. Whether you feel intrigued, hesitant or simply want to build confidence in this area, this is a space for learning, reflection and gentle exploration.
You will have the opportunity to:
- reflect on your own assumptions, curiosities, discomforts or excitement about BDSM
- understand the wide range of motivations behind BDSM interests – from healing to play, intimacy and empowerment
- learn the key principles that distinguish healthy, consensual BDSM from harmful dynamics
- explore how BDSM can be approached with mindfulness, safety and emotional intelligence
- consider the potential therapeutic benefits of power exchange and kink practices
- develop language and confidence to create permission-giving and affirming spaces for clients
What to expect:
- informative discussions and myth-busting
- space for personal reflection and open dialogue
- experiential learning through optional, light-hearted play activities (no participation required)
- emphasis on consent, boundaries, and emotional safety
- a mix of theory, practice and fun
- learn how to support clients exploring BDSM
- move beyond stigma and deepen understanding of erotic diversity
- deepen awareness around inclusive, sex-positive practices
Join us if you’re ready to:
- learn in a relaxed, playful, and supportive environment
- deepen your cultural competency in sexuality and kink
- enhance your ability to hold non-judgmental space
About our Pluralogues
For those new to this event, the Pluralogue is a space where we get together to both learn and socialise, meet some new colleagues and find out what others are up to.
The term ‘Pluralogue’ was coined by Doron many years ago, to depict moving beyond monologue to dialogue: to pluralogue (the conversation of many). We hope to learn together and from each other in the form of a learning community in a friendly atmosphere.
The added bonus is that we structure it as a CPD event so you will be able to count it as CPD hours (a CPD certificate will be provided as well).
Booking information
Places cost:
- £15 for Relational Spaces members
- £25 for non-members
To confirm your booking please email us at therapyroomsuk@gmail.com and we will reply with details of how to pay.
Cancellation policy
Please note we do not offer refunds for our events. However, if you ask to cancel your booking more than 7 days before the event, you’ll receive a one-time use (no-cancellation) credit for a future event.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Warm regards,
Dianne, Doron and Cressy
07426 336 322
Image © Doron Levene