Presenter
Dr. Hannah Sunshine Bland
Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)
Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC)
Spalding University
hbland@spalding.edu
Dr. Hannah Bland holds her PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, is a Licensed Professional Counselor, and is also a Nationally Certified Counselor. She is an Assistant Professor of Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Spalding University in Louisville, Kentucky and also provides therapy and assessment services to incarcerated individuals through PSIMED. Dr. Bland has professional interests in forensic populations, Appalachian culture, and religious minorities. In particular, her current work has been focused on Satanism and multicultural competence related to this religious group.
Description
The Satanic panic was a widespread panic that occurred in the United States between the 1970s-1990s. This panic was focused on the idea that Satan and Satanic practice were at fault for significant criminal activity within that time period, including Satanic ritual abuse. Unfortunately, mental health professionals played a significant role in the false accusation and conviction of those deemed Satanic.
Satanism is a religious practice that has faced significant backlash and misunderstanding from media outlets, the general public, and mental health professionals. These misunderstandings, often traced back to the Satanic Panic, have created harmful stereotypes and falsifications regarding Satanism as a current religious practice. With the rapid increase in those identifying as Satanists, it is important that mental health professionals have accurate information regarding basic practices, beliefs, and variances among the religion. This webinar seeks to provide professionals with information regarding the history and evolution of Satanism, including current practices and beliefs. This webinar will also discuss the Satanic Panic, how this moral panic has created a mistrust between mental health professionals and Satanists, and multiculturally competent practices that can be implemented to create and maintain a positive rapport with Satanic clients.
Learning Objectives
1. Discuss the history of Satanism and its evolution as a religious practice.
2. Describe the basic beliefs, practices, and tenants of current Satanists.
3. Explain the impact of the Satanic Panic on current mental health practices and client relations.
4. List multiculturally competent practices that can be utilized when working with Satanic clients.