In more recent years, more has been spoken about in working with clients with a chronic condition around accessibility and what it may be like for those living with a condition. Less spoken about is what about if the clinician is the one with a chronic condition. As a person with type 1 diabetes, which means daily injections and blood tests, I didn’t have guidance on how to manage my own health when working with clients. Is it ok to tell them? Can I get insurance? What to do on sick days that might occur at the last minute, so lots to think about on this topic. A chronic condition may be medical like diabetes, psychological such as depression, or having a different way of processing information like with dyslexia or autism.
Some comments I heard in the past made me feel dismissed such as saying ‘counsellors should be in good health’ which is very unclear. I have good health, however, as I’m on medication and have medical input, others may not see good health. I discussed how one might manage and what additional areas of importance are there for those juggling clinical work and health.
Course Content
Presenter
Kel (She/Her) is an experienced Therapist, Educator, and Researcher specialising in Eating Disorders. She brings a unique combination of professional knowledge and lived experience to her work, helping both individuals and professionals navigate the complexities of eating disorders with greater understanding and compassion.
As the co-founder of the LEED (Lived Experiences of Eating Disorders) Research Collective, Kel collaborates on multiple research projects and is deeply committed to improving systemic responses to eating disorders. Her interests include exploring systemic issues in care, challenging the language and narratives around eating disorders, and advocating for better training, awareness, and resources to support professionals and clients.
Kel’s passionate, accessible style makes her a sought-after speaker and trainer. She has delivered workshops and talks to professionals across the UK, providing practical insights and fostering reflective discussions.
Whether through therapy, education, or advocacy, Kel is passionate about creating a world where no one struggling with an eating disorder feels unseen or unsupported.
My name is Olivia Djouadi and I am a UKCP member and a graduate of Regents University in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy. I also trained with IMT Integrative Mindbody Therapy, a type of Body Therapy with Dr. Asaf Rolef Ben-Shahar. I also trained with OLT online counselling for therapists and did the general, diploma and DOTS course so I can practice as an online supervisor.
Ch. 14 – Using creativity in online supervision and chronic illness (OLIVIA DJOUADI) from the book: “Online Supervision – Anne Stokes” – (May 2018)
