Sex and sexuality in the therapeutic space: Breaking the silence and reducing shame

This workshop will explore the meaning of sex in the 21st century, how it impacts our lives and how it manifests in the therapeutic space.

The focus will be on typical and atypical sexual development, the sexual arousal cycle and the influence of early attachment experiences in the formation of sexual scripts and arousal templates. Emphasis is placed on enhancing awareness of sexuality and a range of sexual dysfunctions including arousal and desire disorders, sexual shame, sexual anorexia, hypersexuality, sexual compulsions and addictions, online pornography and cybersex. The role of psychoeducation and sensate focus when working with survivors of CSA and sexual violence will also be examined to enable survivors to reclaim their sexuality.

Through the use of questionnaires and experiential exercises, participants will be able to develop a deeper understanding of both their own and their clients relationship to sex and sexuality and learn how to feel more comfortable when talking about sex without evoking feelings of shame. Topics covered will include:

• The uses of sex.
• The sexual script.
• Meaning of sex including cultural and generational differences.
• Talking about sex with clients and what this evokes consciously and unconsciously in both client and therapist.
• Erotic transference and erotic counter transference.
• The role of psychoeducation when exploring sexuality.
• Shame and sexuality.
• Sexual dysfunctions and how they can be managed.
• Social media, porn and online sex addiction.
• Impact of child sexual abuse and sexual violence on sexuality.
• How to reclaim sexuality after CSA and sexual violence.