Institute for Sexuality Education and Enlightenment

Live Class, Portland, OR

Some people present with different disabilities, many of which are not immediately apparent to providers or educators. How can therapy professionals effectively assess & help these individuals?  What do we need to know as educators about sex and ability? How can our cultural attitudes about visible and invisible disabilities interfere or encourage personal agency? Through discussions, a panel of people with varying challenges, didactic information, personal experiences, and interactive activities, participants will discover strategies and coping mechanisms they can use and new ways of envisioning sex.

This program meets the requirements of the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) and is approved for 6 CE credits. These CE credits may be applied toward AASECT certification and renewal of certification.

APA CE's: AASECT is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. AASECT maintains responsibility for this program and its content. For more information see http://approvedsponsors.apa.org/

Core knowledge area: Sex & health

Location: Revolution Hall, 1300 SE Stark St., Portland, OR Time: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM with a lunch break from 12:00-1:30 PM

Regristration: $150

Objectives for Sex & Disability Class                                

1. Identify the physical, emotional, and invisible factors that affect sexual abilities.
2. Explain how “sex” is an evolving concept based on pleasure and connection, rather than performance or function.
3. Describe the importance of communication before, during, and after sex for people with different abilities.
4. Recognize one’s biases and assumptions about sexuality.
5. Identify ways to kindle eroticism when health issues compromise sexual desire.
6. Name ways couples can foster emotional intimacy despite medical, mental, and physical challenges.