Lifespan Integration’s Statement of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Lifespan Integration (LI) as a modality offers clients trauma resolution and repairs attachment deficits. As LI therapists engaging in this important work, we maintain deep respect for the lived experience of each client. LI has always honored the diversity of each client, thus facilitating clinical interactions that are inclusive and anti-oppressive, through the following components:

1. LI as a modality is open and inclusive of both therapists and clients regardless of culture, ethnicity, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, religion, neurodiversity, disability status, nationality, or any other aspect which makes them unique.
2. The main “material” used in all LI protocols is the Timeline which is a list of memory cues unique to each client. In regard to a client’s Timeline, it is important to never assume the impact a memory cue has on a client, particularly the cultural context.
3. LI is naturally “client centered” due to the strong emphasis on attunement. LI honors each client’s own emerging Wisdom without pressure to become or let go of anything the client is not ready or willing to do. In other words, the therapist’s own cultural or ethnic biases, religious lens, sexual orientation or gender expression should not in any way pressure or lead the client. Rather, it is the client’s authentic self that organically emerges without outside pressure from the therapist.
4. LI is a bottom up modality. The client’s system is the agent of change. The LI therapist follows the pace and unfolding of the client’s emerging authentic self.
5. LI honors client autonomy, which means that the client chooses how much they share. A skilled LI therapist does not ask for more than what is needed.
6. LI requires all certified LI therapists to do their own LI therapy which minimizes biases that therapists may be unaware of and increases the capacity to be vulnerable which is conducive to having competence in all areas of diversity. A therapist who has a growing competence in all areas of diversity is willing to constantly learn about each client, and able to admit mistakes and seek to repair them.

Lastly, LI trainings are only available for Master Level Counselors (each country could adapt this to their country’s criteria) who by definition should have ongoing training on the meaning and practice of competence in diversity, equity and inclusion.