Anti-Oppressive Practice (AOP) is a social justice-oriented approach within social work which recognizes that multiple forms of oppression can occur simultaneously within micro, mezzo, and macro levels, including within therapy. While AOP Practice is primarily focused on mezzo and macro levels of engagement (community organizing, policy advocacy, etc), AOP informs my clinical approach in a number of ways. 

First is the acknowledgment that our mental health does not occur in a vacuum. It is important to identify the ways in which systems of oppression impact our mental health and/or our access to solutions, especially in therapy. 

Second is emphasizing empowerment through transparency and options. I believe in demystifying the therapeutic process and look to provide as much information as I can and as it is wanted regarding any clinical recommendations or logistical planning. This includes providing information regarding any logistic barriers or ethical boundaries that may show up in our work together. I believe that it is only through open and transparent information collecting that we are able to identify the options that best work for us and our needs. 

Third is valuing collaboration over power-holding. Without proper care, there can be an unchecked power imbalance in the therapeutic relationship. I disrupt that imbalance by recognizing that while I may have expertise in therapy, you are the expert on you and your life. I trust and value the information, perspective, and experience everyone brings to therapy and work collaboratively to ensure the concepts or skills discussed in session are accessible outside of session. 

Fourth is focusing on and prioritizing my own learning and growth. I do not believe that Anti-Oppressive Practice is a “final goal” I can reach as a provider or an ally but rather an ongoing investment in how I continue to show up in the therapeutic space and in my community. I will continue to prioritize analyzing and reflecting on the unique positionality I have based on my lived experiences and identities and how they may impact me as a therapist.

If you have any questions on AOP, how it shows up in therapy spaces, or believe this approach would be a good fit for your therapeutic needs, please please reach out to schedule a free phone consultation (e: nicole@throughthepavementtherapy.com or 412-945-7802).