AASW Webinar Recording | Ableism in Allied Health - How Language Can Make All the Difference

Capability Levels: Emerging; Evolving

In this webinar, we will explore the barriers faced by disabled individuals and examine how well-meaning, able-bodied social workers may unintentionally contribute to these obstacles. Together, we’ll identify practical ways to recognise and dismantle these barriers within social work practice.

A key focus will be on the use of safe and inclusive language—what it means, why it matters, and how thoughtful communication can foster respect, empowerment, and trust. Participants will gain tools to reflect on their language and learn how small shifts in wording can have a powerful impact on both clients and practitioners.

Additionally, the webinar will delve into the importance of decolonising mental health. We will discuss why this process is essential, how to develop greater awareness of colonial influences, and how to actively unlearn harmful assumptions and practices. Participants will be encouraged to engage in ongoing self-reflection and adopt practices that support equity and healing in mental health care.

Who should register?

This event is suitable for students, emerging, intermediate and experienced social workers and for anyone who is interested in creating a truly inclusive environment for the people they work with.

It will also be valuable for practitioners seeking to deepen their understanding of how ableism shows up in clinical settings, policies, and everyday interactions.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this program, participants will be able to:

• Develop an increased awareness of where ableism hides
• Understand the importance of inclusive language and how to apply it
• Improve practice to self-reflect and unlearn hurtful beliefs and practices

AASW Credentials: Disability; Mental Health (Focussed Psychological Strategies)

Testimonials

• "I found this training very useful and insightful, and believe what I have learnt will definitely benefit my social work practicing framework into the future."
• "Great training. Immediate strategies provided to implement after the training."
• "It is great to be reminded that there is so much more to working with people with disability than how the NDIS works. We need a lot more training like this! Thanks Karin."