Infographic showing that 12 million people in the UK are deaf, hard of hearing, or D/deaf, according to the RNID.

Key Learnings

Understanding D/deaf Identity The training distinguishes between "deaf" (audiological condition) and "Deaf" (cultural and linguistic community). The Deaf community shares British Sign Language and has its own cultural identity, beliefs, and connection to society.

Communication Strategies Essential techniques for working with Lip-readers and British Sign Language users

Lip Reading Realities Exploring the difficulties around Lip Reading. Only 30% of spoken words are visible on lips, making lip reading extremely challenging.

Client Population Understanding Hearing therapists are likely to work with CODAs (Children of Deaf Adults), people experiencing progressive hearing loss, and cochlear implant recipients during adjustment periods.

Mental Health Context D/deaf children show 40% prevalence of mental health issues compared to 25% in hearing children. Adults also experience higher rates of mental health challenges, yet access to appropriate services remains limited with very few D/deaf therapists available.

Therapeutic Considerations Working with interpreters presents both opportunities and challenges.

British Sign Language Fundamentals Which includes basic BSL skills and grammatical structure (which differs from English grammar)

The workshop creates awareness that serving the D/deaf community requires understanding both the practical communication needs and the deeper cultural considerations of working with what is often described as "a minority within a minority."

This training is designed to help mental health professionals provide inclusive and effective services to the D/deaf community. Led by Hasan Kurtarici, a qualified BSL interpreter and counsellor with personal experience of progressive hearing loss.

D/deaf Awareness for Counsellors and Psychotherapists

The CPD provides an introduction to working with D/deaf individuals. Sessions typically last for 2 hours.

Find the next dates below

Longer session or in-person sessions for organisations can be custom built. If this is something you would be interested in click the contact button below.

Upcoming events

  • D/deaf Awareness for Counsellors and Psychotherapist

    Saturday 6th December 2025

    10am - 12pm

    £35 (+Booking Fee)

  • D/deaf Awareness for Counsellors and Psychotherapist

    Wednesday 18th February 2026

    6pm - 8pm

    £35 (+Booking Fee)

  • D/deaf Awareness for Counsellors and Psychotherapist

    Saturday 30th May 2026

    10am - 12pm

    £35 (+Booking Fee)

  • I really enjoyed the experiential elements, which was so simple but had a huge impact on all of us, giving us a tiny example of how frustrating it is to not be able to connect with someone

    Kate Floyer

  • As a therapist working in private practice , I am always looking for opportunities to improve the service I offer to my clients. However, this training gave me understanding that the accessibility for people with all kinds of Deafness is unfortunately very low. I would highly recommend this CPD for not only therapists but anyone who wishes to better support the Deaf community better.

    Claire Howdle