Jenni Skyler, PhD, MSEd Sex Therapist The Intimacy Institute: Sex & Relationship Therapy Talking About Sex: Essential Tools for Clinicians and Clergy

Learning Objectives A.Why it is important to ask our clients about their sexuality and/or sex lives? B.When do we ask? C.How do we ask? D.What do we do with this information in order to best help our clients towards healthy sexuality and a more satisfying life?

Sexuality “…a central aspect of being human throughout life encompasses sex, gender identities and roles, sexual orientation, eroticism, pleasure, intimacy and reproduction. Sexuality is experienced and expressed in thoughts, fantasies, desires, beliefs, attitudes, values, behaviors, practices, roles and relationships. While sexuality can include all of these dimensions, not all of them are always experienced or expressed. Sexuality is influenced by the interaction of biological, psychological, social, economic, political, cultural, legal, historical, religious and spiritual factors.” (WHO, 2006a )

Sexual Health “…a state of physical, emotional, mental and social well- being in relation to sexuality; it is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction or infirmity. Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination and violence. For sexual health to be attained and maintained, the sexual rights of all persons must be respected, protected and fulfilled.” (WHO, 2006a)

Sex Therapy Specialized area of psychotherapy. Practical, at-home behavioral exercises, readings &videos. There is never any nudity or sexual behavior in session. Exploration of our complex sex histories and FOO Facilitate sexual function, find emotional and/or sexual intimacy in a relationship, heal infidelity, enhance communication, or explore alternative sexual expressions

Healthy Sexuality: Healthy sexuality encompasses a positive understanding of sensuality, intimacy, sexual identity, and sexual health & reproduction, experienced on physical, emotional, intellectual, social, and spiritual dimensions, alone or in a relationship

Healthy Sexuality is more than just responsible and consenting sexual behaviors; it is an individual’s birthright and an integral part of the human experience

Intimacy Map INTIMACY INTIMACY Spiritual Sexual Emotional Social Affectional Aesthetic Intellectual Physical Copyright Skyler (2009); Volker (2005)