Close encounters facing the self

The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy presents an equality and diversity matters conference 'Close encounters - facing the self' 1 February 2007, The Hilton Coventry Hotel.

Yet again diversity is making the headlines with accusations of racist behaviour being levelled at the contestants in the Big Brother house.

Channel 4 is unable to decide whether racism has occurred, or if social differences are to blame for disputes between contestants. 'What constitutes racism is a complex question', Andy Duncan, chief executive, Channel 4.

This specialist conference will challenge delegates to examine their ownviews and to identify what diversity and equality really means to them.Leading thinkers from the fields of business and counselling will besharing their thoughts on diversity.

This year BACP is delighted towelcome Linda Bellos (OBE) and Professor Andrew Samuels as keynotespeakers in addition to a host of specialist workshop presenters.Linda Bellos, Director of Diversity Solutions Consultancy Ltd, will examine the ever-changing nature of diversity and whether what isconsidered relevant and topical now will remain so in the future.

Andrew Samuels, is an author and professor with over thirty years ofexperience, he will discuss how counsellors can get in touch with their"inner politician" and by doing so explore the possibilities andlimitations of equality and diversity.

The day will also feature a number of thought- provoking workshopsessions:

* Embedding diversity into personal and professional self
* Deconstructing sex and gender
* Identity development and identity recognition: who we are,particularly inrelation to 'they' and 'them'?

* Facing the self creatively

* Disability - how the self sees it

* Understanding the self- the lens through which we view our world

After gaining an insight into their own relationships on mattersconcerning diversity delegates will be invited to discuss how differenceimpacts on the counselling relationship - does it in fact provide more opportunities for change than challenges?

For further information about this event please visit the BACP website www.bacp.co.uk

To book place(s) please contact Richard Smith in the BACP EventsTeam on: 0870 143 0945 or email: richard.smith@bacp.co.uk