2009002 - Foundations in Professional Sexuality Practices
Course Description
Engage in specialized training to explore the foundations of professionally practicing as a sexuality educator, counselor, and/or therapist in the field of sexuality. Focusing upon theory, research, and professional sexuality practice interventions, we will explore the relationship that individual, relational systems, and larger social systems share with sexuality. Facilitative learning will take place within small group discussions and deliberate practice sessions with participants simulating students, patients, and/or clients and consultation teams, along with guest speakers, lectures, and videos.
This course is offered in an intensive format consisting of four full-day class days (online synchronous) within a one-month period with 18-23 hours of asynchronous work (readings, discussions, opportunities to excel, assignments) between classes.
It is assumed that participants already have a foundation in general knowledge of basic anatomy, gender socialization, basic models of sexual arousal and response, as well as an overview of sexuality over the lifespan.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Identify the contextual variables that affect human sexuality
- Recognize “self-of-the-professional”, your social location (e.g., class, gender, culture, sexual orientation, positionality, ethical self, etc.), and how it impacts your work
- Apply the foundational framework for professional sexuality practices (i.e., PLISSIT [Permission, Limited Information, Specific Suggestions, Intensive Therapy] Framework)
- Review and discuss consensual sexual health communication practices
- Articulate and demonstrate field-based ethics, ethical behavior, and professionalism
- Demonstrate understanding of foundational sexual health elements (e.g., pleasure, sexual and reproductive anatomy/physiology, etc.)
Course Topics
- Study of Human Sexuality/Sexology
- Certifications and Codes
- Ethics
- Diversity - Related Intersectionalities
- Consent and Legal Intersections
- Attachment Theory
- Couples Communication
- Lifespan and Life Course Consideration
- Age-Related Sexuality Considerations
- Professional Sexual Health Frameworks and Considerations
- Pleasure and Fantasy
Additional Requirements
Pre-requisites
There is an application process. Applicants will have a bachelor's degree in related fields (e.g., psychology, medicine, social work, counselling, education, public health, nursing, or human development and family studies), and have a foundation in general knowledge of basic anatomy, gender socialization, basic models of sexual arousal and response, as well as an overview of sexuality over the lifespan.
Application Process
Upon registration, you will be required to submit a CV/resume outlining your therapy/clinical background/experience and/or associated educational background. You will be informed of your acceptance within two to four weeks from your registration date. Proficiency in English—written and verbal—is required. This course is delivered in English and assignment submissions will be submitted in English.
Assessment
| Assessment Item | Weight | Learning Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| Self-of-the-Therapist Pre-Course Assessment and Reflection | 25% | 1, 2, 5, 6 |
| Synchronous Group Discussions | 20% | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 |
| Asynchronous Online Discussions and Activities | 20% | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 |
| Knowledge Checks (4) | 10% | 1, 4, 5, 6 |
| Self-of-the-Therapist Post-Course Assessment and Reflection | 25% | 1, 2, 5, 6 |
| Total | 100% | 1-6 |
Please note that the course assessment is subject to change.
Note:
Professional Accreditation
The outcomes have been intentionally designed to meet professional accreditation core competencies set by the following organizations:
This program meets the requirements of the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) and is approved for AASECT CE Credits. These CE Credits may be applied toward AASECT certification and renewal of certification.
Sponsoring Partner
Technical Requirements
You are responsible for ensuring that your computer system meets the necessary system requirements. Use the browser check tool to ensure your browser settings are compatible and up to date (results will be displayed in a new browser window).
*Course details are subject to change.