Cultural Competency: Through the Lens of Conditionality

Through the lens of the teachings of conditionality, participants will explore their personal and professional identities. The identities of mental health professionals along with those of their clients are fluid and multi-layered and arise from intersecting conditions: e.g., race, gender, class, migration, neurodiversity, religion, sexuality, and are conditioned by historical, social, and personal factors. Recognizing lived experience as particular even within shared cultural backgrounds helps participants move away from essentializing or stereotyping and categorizing groups of people and assuming characteristics or traits. This workshop supports an intersectional, compassionate and ethical understanding of therapists’ and clients’ experiences.

Learning Objectives:

● Apply the Buddhist concept of conditionality to explore how a participant’s own
social positionality and identity impacts cultural competency and how this
awareness improves the therapeutic alliance.
● Participants will learn more about their cultural lens and social positionality and how
this impacts clinical work.
● Apply Reflective Meditation and workshop activities to increase self-awareness of
participants’ beliefs, attitudes, emotions and values as they relate to cultural
considerations
● Discuss ideas presented and impact on professional work through meditation,
reflection and through caring conversations with colleagues.
● Adopt an adaptation of the ACA Code of Ethics as workshop agreements.

Cost: The workshop is offered at three price points: $245, $195, and three slots are available at $145 for students, interns, or those who are financially challenged. Honestly consider what you can afford. If you’re able to pay on the higher end, this will support others who are experiencing financial challenges. The registration fee covers the workshop and a café lunch that will accommodate dietary preferences and needs.

We are offering one free slot to BIPOC therapists. To request the slot, please email Charlotte August at ethics@pinestreetsangha.org.

CE: 6 hours approved by NBCC**

Saturday, December 5, 2026 9:30 am – 4:45 pm In-person at Rosevilla
130505 Southeast River Road, Portland, OR 97222 (Near Milwaukie, OR)