COSRT is aware of recent discussion on social media about the content of a self-access class: ‘Kink-Affirming Training for Psychosexual and Relationship Therapists’ by Dr Markie Twist (full biography below).
We understand that some comments have called the probity of the training into question. We also understand that some people may have been upset or confused by comments made.
Therefore, informed comment can provide clarity and reassurance.
The class subject to discussion is a high-quality, thought provoking piece of training. It is presented by a renowned academic and practitioner. It draws on academic research to help Psychotherapists better understand contemporary BDSM. An area within that is animal play – where adults may play the role of animals – or even personal attraction to animal forms.
Highlighting how such animal attraction appears in popular culture, Dr Twist explains that research shows this type of presentation can be particularly ‘triggering’ for many people. In turn, explaining that personal distaste is often supported by the argument that animals cannot consent to sexual actions. Dr Twist goes on to remind trainees that animals cannot consent to anything. So, transferring such a simplistic argument to the analysis of adult behaviour and psychology is overly simplistic, risking stigmatisation that could affect clinical practice.
The trainer seeks to highlight that Psychotherapists should push beyond personal reactions or views. Instead, they should seek to better understand Service User behaviours, backgrounds and contexts without moral judgement. And clinical practice – including diagnosis, pathologisation and treatments – should be based on thorough investigation, information and evidence.
Stigma and hyperbole should not impede the examination of issues affecting real people – no matter how challenging they are.
Public protection and professional standards mean that Psychotherapists need this type of training, designed and delivered by experts. It allows therapists to develop by better understanding and critically examining contemporary or challenging issues. Crucially, Service Users need Psychotherapists to have this sort of training. It allows their experiences and needs to be better understood and addressed. This is how credible therapists push to improve Service User outcomes in the modern world.
That is why this clarification is important.
‘Kink-Affirming Psychosexual and Relationship Therapy Practices’ was first published in 2023 and is one of over 50 self access classes currently available from COSRT. These classes are designed and presented by recognised experts to help ensure therapists have the professional knowledge needed to protect the public. They cover multiple clinical and wider issues and can be found alongside seminars and conferences on issues related to Psychosexual and Relationship Therapies at www.cosrtlearn.org.uk.
About Dr Markie Twist
Dr. Markie Twist, LMFT, LMHC is a licensed marriage and family therapist and mental health counsellor, as well as a clinical fellow and approved supervisor of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). She is a certified sexuality educator and supervisor through the American Association for Sexuality Educators, Counsellors, and Therapists. Dr Twist is part of the Teaching Faculty in the Department of Applied Psychology in the Doctoral and Master of Arts Programs in Couple and Family Therapy at Antioch University New England and is Session Instructor in the University of Guelph Professional Sexuality Practices Clinical Training Program.