Courses
human sexuality i
A student taking Human Sexuality 1 course can expect a comprehensive and open exploration of various aspects of human sexuality. The course will cover topics such as sexual anatomy and physiology, sexual response, contraception, sexually transmitted infections, gender identity, sexual orientation, relationships, and sexual health. The learning environment is designed to be respectful and inclusive, encouraging open discussions and critical thinking about personal values and societal norms related to sexuality. Students may find the course to be informative and empowering, helping them develop a greater understanding of themselves and others in relation to sexuality.
Core Knowledge Areas are outlined by the AASECT guidelines for certification and are adhered to in this curriculum.
Human Sexuality II
Our Human Sexuality II course builds upon the foundational knowledge gained in Human Sexuality I, delving into more complex and nuanced topics. Students can expect to learn about:
- Advanced topics in sexual health: This includes in-depth discussions on specific STIs, chronic sexual pain, fertility challenges, and the impact of illness and disability on sexual function and expression.
- Relationship dynamics and intimacy: The course explores various relationship structures, communication patterns, conflict resolution, and the development and maintenance of intimacy over time. It might also cover topics like non-monogamy, polyamory, and asexuality.
- Sexual dysfunctions and therapies: Students will learn about the diagnosis and treatment of various sexual dysfunctions in both men and women, including the different approaches to sex therapy.
- Diversity in sexual expression: This involves a deeper exploration of diverse sexual orientations, gender identities (including transgender experiences), and atypical sexual behaviors and interests.
- Sociocultural and political issues: The course examines the impact of culture, religion, law, and politics on sexuality, including topics like sexual rights, reproductive justice, and LGBTQ+ issues.
- Sexual coercion and violence: Human Sexuality II addresses the complexities of sexual assault, harassment, and abuse, including their impact on individuals and relationships, and strategies for prevention and intervention.
- Current research and emerging trends: Students are introduced to current research methodologies in the field of human sexuality and explore emerging topics such as the impact of technology on sex and relationships.
Overall, Human Sexuality II offers a more in-depth and critical examination of human sexuality, encouraging students to think analytically about complex issues and diverse perspectives.
Advanced sex therapy
An advanced sex therapy course is designed for professionals who have already completed foundational training in human sexuality and sex therapy. It aims to deepen their clinical skills and knowledge, preparing them to handle more complex and challenging sexual issues in therapy. Here's what you can expect:
- Advanced Clinical Skills: The course will focus on refining assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning skills for a wide range of sexual dysfunctions, paraphilias, and sexual compulsivity. Students will learn advanced techniques and interventions tailored to specific client needs and presentations.
- Complex Case Conceptualization: Expect to delve into intricate case studies, developing the ability to understand the interplay of psychological, biological, relational, and sociocultural factors contributing to sexual difficulties. This includes considering the impact of trauma, attachment styles, and systemic dynamics.
- Specialized Topics: This course covers specialized areas within sex therapy, such as working with sexual minorities (LGBTQ+), addressing issues related to sexual trauma, managing out-of-control sexual behaviors, exploring non-traditional relationship structures (e.g., polyamory), and navigating the complexities of desire discrepancy in couples.
- Ethical Considerations: A significant component will focus on the advanced ethical dilemmas that arise in sex therapy practice, including issues of consent, power dynamics, confidentiality in couples therapy, and navigating personal values and biases.
- Integration of Different Therapeutic Models: The course explores how to integrate various therapeutic approaches (e.g., psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, systemic) with sex therapy techniques to create comprehensive treatment plans.
- Focus on the Therapist's Self: Advanced training emphasizes the importance of the therapist's self-awareness, including exploring their own sexual attitudes, values, and potential biases, and how these might impact the therapeutic relationship and treatment outcomes. This often involves further self-reflection and experiential exercises.
- Current Research and Emerging Trends: Students can expect to engage with the latest research findings in sexology and sex therapy, as well as explore emerging trends and controversies in the field, such as the impact of technology on sexuality.
Overall, an advanced sex therapy course is a rigorous and transformative experience aimed at producing highly competent and ethical practitioners in the field of sex therapy. It requires a commitment to ongoing learning, self-reflection, and the development of specialized clinical expertise.