Presenters

Anne Thompson, LPC (she/they)

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 4

APA – 4

NBCC – 4

Session Description

The Eight Dimensions of Boundaries is a tool to make the invisible visible, a strategy for communication as an act of exchange. The tool highlights that all individuals are part of intersecting groups, communities and institutions, simultaneously offering opportunities to reinforce personal sovereignty, including as it relates to relational dynamics, gender, sexuality and pleasure. Through highlighting the overlap of boundaries’ psychological and concrete nature, the framework is a response to dominant social constructs of what constitutes a ‘healthy’ boundary.

Registration

View rates for Pre-Conference Workshops.

There will be an hour break during the session for attendees to grab lunch on their own.

Presenters

Crystal Ellis, MPH, CSE (she/her)

Michelle Linschoten, MPH, MSW (she/her)

Intended Audience

Educators, Supervisors

CE Credits

AASECT – 4

APA – 4

NASW – 4

NBCC – 4

Session Description

The Sexuality Educator Anti-racist Training (SEAT) empowers sexuality educators of all racial identities with skills to confront, interrupt, de-construct, and challenge racism in personal attitudes and sexuality education instruction. SEAT is an answer to the question, “What do I do when a racist incident happens under my supervision- whether I or someone else was the source of harm?” This experiential training is developed from a pluralistic viewpoint, designed to go beyond centering “white supremacy culture” standards.

Registration

View rates for Pre-Conference Workshops.

There will be an hour break during the session for attendees to grab lunch on their own.

Presenters

Jessica Kruckeberg, LMFT, CST (she/they)

Intended Audience

Counselors, Therapists, Supervisors, and Medical Professionals

CE Credits

AASECT – 4

APA – 4

NBCC – 4

Session Description

Most sex therapy training do not go in-depth into working with pelvic pain/dysfunction clients leaving a sex therapist feeling helpless and stuck, resulting in these clients being referred out to pelvic pain physical therapy as the one and only solution. In this workshop, we will help you understand more about pelvic dysfunction through a detailed discussion of the anatomy of the pelvic bowl, the various other body systems chronic pelvic dysfunction can impact, detailed look at the comorbidity diagnosis, the importance of talking to clients about their menstrual cycles, the penis and pelvic floor, and the impact pelvic pain has relationships.

Registration

View rates for Pre-Conference Workshops.

There will be an hour break during the session for attendees to grab lunch on their own.

Join us for the Western Region Meet-up, where like-minded individuals from the Western region will come together to discuss trends, share insights, and network with one another. This meet-up is a great opportunity to connect with professionals from the region and build valuable relationships. Don’t miss out on this chance to engage with the Western Region community and gain new perspectives on the latest developments in our industry.

CE Credit

Meet-up participation does not count toward CE credit.

Registration

This is an AASECT members-only event. Registration is not required.

This special interest group is a resource for AASECT members interested in learning how psychedelic medicines can be incorporated in the healing and exploration of sexuality. Members will discuss ethical concerns and considerations in care when incorporating or integrating psychedelics in practice. This SIG will provide support, share resources, and a space to learn from each other’s experiences and wisdom.

CE Credit

Special Interest Group participation does not count toward CE credit.

Registration

This is an AASECT members-only event. Registration is not required.

The Student SIG provides a way for student members to connect and actively engage with one another. This group serves as a forum to share and discuss information regarding the various aspects of navigating a range of academic programs.

CE Credit

Special Interest Group participation does not count toward CE credit.

Registration

This is an AASECT members-only event and registration is not required. Must be a student to participate.

Connect with AASECT members who are interested in Tantra and other Sacred Sexualities. This is a forum for such members to discuss, explore, learn, and share their experiences practicing Tantra and other Sacred Sexualities Network with other practitioners and learn what, where, and how others are teaching, educating, and researching new developments in these areas Discuss ways the SIG can benefit AASECT members and the populations we serve.

CE Credit

Special Interest Group participation does not count toward CE credit.

Registration

This is an AASECT members-only event and registration is not required.

Presenter

Melissa Fernandez, PsyD, LMHC (she/her/hers)

Session Description

The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of face-to-face delivered group-based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) interventions in terms of effectiveness and feasibility. The goal is to address a range of psychological issues associated with gender-based minority stress that go beyond traditional diagnoses. The hope for the group is to create a safe place for acceptance and validation of transgender experiences while providing psychoeducation and practice on increasing psychological flexibility needed to build resiliency against chronic gender-based stress.

Presenter

David Knox, PhD Marriage and Family (he)

Joyce Chang, Ph.D.

Session Description

Two-hundred and ninety-eight undergraduates (82% female, 81% heterosexual, and 71% white/non Hispanic) at three universities completed an anonymous, voluntary 33-item survey on romantic chemistry. Thirty-nine percent of the respondents reported that sexual attraction was the primary factor responsible for chemistry in a romantic relationship. Intellectual banter (63%), similarity of age/race/values (47%) and being ready for a new love connection (40%) were identified as other, more important factors. While a third of the respondents could not explain their ‘romantic chemistry, others suggeste

Presenter

Idil Ugurluoglu (she/my name)

Alexander Tatum, PhD, CST (he/him)

Jessi Schroeder, MA (she)

Alex Whitman (she/her)

Nawar Albarak

Session Description

We examined the racial and gender differences in sexual preoccupation. Consistent with the literature, results indicate that male participants reported higher sexual preoccupation than female participants. Additionally, non-White participants had greater scores of sexual preoccupation than White participants; however, we did not find evidence to support the interaction effect between gender and racial identity on sexual preoccupation.

Presenter

Liz Haas, LMSW ACSW CST CSE (She/Her)

Session Description

Sex is often studied in the context of risk rather than pleasure. Data from the second OMGYes Pleasure Report, focusing on women’s experience of anal stimulation, was analyzed with logistic regression to assess for the association of sexual orientation with pleasure from internal and external anal stimulation while controlling for other sociodemographics. Gay/lesbian and bisexual women were more likely than straight women to report pleasure related to internal and external anal stimulation from multiple sources. Understanding anal pleasure may help women engage in more satisfying, safer sex.

Presenter

Bobbie Emetu, PhD, MPH, MA, AMFT, APCC (she, her, hers)

Session Description

This study sought to further understand sexual self-concepts among young sexual minority men with childhood sexual abuse histories. Sixteen (N = 16) participants were interviewed utilizing a hermeneutical phenomenological conceptual framework and methodology. Three themes were found: (1) body image concerns; (2) penile insecurities; and (3) desire for romantic attachment. This study extend previous research on emotional and mental components and has implications for mental health professionals who are likely to interact with childhood sexual abuse survivors who are sexually diverse.

Presenter

Jessi Schroeder, MA (she)

Alexander Tatum, PhD, CST (he/him)

Alex Whitman (she/her)

Alysse Wiggins

Session Description

Shame is an intensely painful emotion, adversely impacting mental health and social relationships. The present study addressed a gap in the literature through testing a moderated mediation model focusing on how shame proneness relates to insecure attachment and sexual satisfaction. Results indicate that sexual self-esteem mediated the relationship between insecure attachment style and sexual satisfaction. Shame proneness moderated the relationship between avoidant attachment and sexual satisfaction. Findings provide implications for therapists working with shame-prone clients.

Presenter

Madilynn Rutherford, PhD (she/her/hers)

Session Description

The constructs of sexual satisfaction and sexual assertiveness have been largely understudied within transgender and gender diverse (TGD) populations. In order to begin addressing the gaps in the literature, this study seeks to examine the relationship between these constructs and the additional component of internalized transphobia. This research seeks to inform community sex education and therapeutic practices in order to enhance the sexual wellbeing, and thus the overall wellbeing, of TGD individuals.

Presenter

Jessica Benge, MA, T/S (she/her)

Session Description

When individuals or couples present to therapy with sexual struggles, research has shown that these issues are correlated with a lack of partner communication and difficulties with sexual expression (Pazmany et al., 2015). The stigma surrounding sexual behaviors has stifled sexual conversations for too long. This poster will show a new theoretical model, based in the literature, that was developed to provide a framework upon which to visualize the interlaced aspects of desire, sex positivity, satisfaction, and expression.

Presenters

Tiffany Luo

Orlando Parrales

Session Description

The aim of this qualitative systematic review is to synthesize the literature exploring the experiences of older homeless adults’ sexual expression and behavior in homeless shelter settings, while also analyzing the perspectives of homeless shelter workers on practices that promote sexual health well-being. Practitioners need to be aware of the unique sexual health needs of older homeless adults living in shelter settings when providing care. Shelter policy and clinical practices relating to older homeless adults’ sexuality are discussed.

Presenter

Rebbeca Lahann, Psy.D. (she/her)

Intended Audience

Counselors, Therapists

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

APA – 1

NASW – 1

NBCC – 1

Session Description

An exploration of the significance of sexual values, offering insights into the impact of sexual beliefs, preferences, and behaviors on one’s well-being. It will delve into how sexual values are shaped and provide an evidence-based approach to assist therapy clients in examining their sexual values and gaining awareness of how they shape thoughts and actions. It will discuss the consequences of being out of alignment with these values and provide practical guidance on how to empower clients to navigate their sexual values consciously and make decisions that align with their core beliefs.

Presenter

Suzannah Weiss, MPS, CSE (she/they)

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

APA – 1

NBCC – 1

Session Description

Learn how to support autistic individuals in enjoying intimacy, working through sexual obstacles, building confidence, and more. Autistic people’s sensory sensitivities, different ways of processing social and emotional information, cognitive rigidity, and passionate interests may present challenges but can also be leveraged as assets in the bedroom. This talk will cover how autistic people may approach sex differently from neurotypical people and how sexuality professionals can help them.

Presenter

Arya Pretlow, MSN, CNM, ARNP, IBCLC (she)

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

APA – 1

NASW – 1

NBCC – 1

Session Description

This 60-minute workshop explores the ways in which the hormonal changes of normal biological stages – puberty, pregnancy, lactation, and menopause – impact female sexuality. Taking a holistic approach and going beyond estrogen, Arya will help you better understand the relationship between sex hormones and all body systems that contribute to female sexual well-being. This is information that participants will be able to share with any client interested in understanding the role of hormones in women’s sexual experiences.

Presenter

Debby Herbenick, PhD, MPH, CSE (she/her)

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

APA – 1

NASW – 1

NBCC – 1

Session Description

In the past decade, rough sex (e.g., choking, smothering, face slapping, genital slapping, name-calling) has increased dramatically in prevalence. A 2020 campus-representative survey of nearly 5000 college students showed that 80% had ever engaged in rough sex. Also, 1 in 3 young adult women were choked/strangled during their most recent sexual encounter – usually consensually. This presentation will draw from several recent studies on rough sex to address its prevalence, frequency, styles, as well as implications for communication, consent, mental health, and physical health.

Presenter

Jill McCracken

Stella Jendrzejewski

LOVE Queen Layla

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

APA – 1

NASW – 1

NBCC – 1

Session Description

This original research presentation provides recommendations for sexuality educators, counselors, therapists, social workers, allies and advocotes from a sex worker led community based participatory research project. Often, prostitution and trafficking in the sex industry are conflated by law enforcement and social service providers, which makes it increasingly difficult to meet individuals’ needs and perpetuates cycles of shame and stigma. Hearing directly from people in the sex industry (consensual sex workers and survivors of trafficking), attendees can better provide services and resources applicable to all clients.

Presenter

Chelsea Yang, MS, LCPC (She/Her)

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1.5

APA – 1.5

NBCC – 1.5

Session Description

Join our roundtable discussion for a transformative perspective on sexual dysfunctions. Rather than treating them as isolated symptoms, we’ll explore how they convey profound existential messages about our existence and being. From hyper-sexual activity to delayed ejaculation, inability to experience pleasure, or the complexities of infidelity, we’ll uncover the deeper meanings within these challenges. Together, we’ll discuss how therapists can attune themselves to these existential messages and create a space for clients to be heard, understood, and guided toward personal growth and healing.

Presenter

Katie Heiden-Rootes, PhD (she/her)

Michelle Dalton

Whitney Linsenmeyer, PhD, RD, LD (She/her)

Yamilet Campos

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1.5

NASW – 1.5

NBCC – 1.5

Session Description

In the state of Missouri, two laws were passed and enacted in the summer of 2023 for restricting gender affirming healthcare and athletic participation for transgender youth. The impact of these laws are being felt across the state. We utilized an online survey of Missouri LGBTQ community members, parents of LGBTQ youth, and healthcare professionals for assessing the impact on stress, discrimination, and intent to leave the state. Quantitative and qualitative data were gathered in the fall of 2023 and analyzed for within and between group findings.

Presenter

Rose Lange

Intended Audience

Educators, Counselors, Therapists, Supervisors

CE Credits

AASECT – 1.5

APA – 1.5

NASW – 1.5

NBCC – 1.5

Session Description

Body size diversity and fatness are diversity dimensions often unacknowledged in the field of sex therapy and education. Many of our clients are larger-bodied and/or engaging in size-diverse sexual encounters. Yet frequently we prescribe thin sex techniques and perspectives that our clients cannot relate to, resulting in further marginalization due to lack of representation and person-specific treatment plans. At this roundtable, Rose Lange will present a brief review of current research on fat sex and will then facilitate a lively discussion to gather group expertise and explore our biases.

Presenter

Nikki Haddad, MD (she)

Carla Rosinski

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1.5

APA – 1.5

Session Description

Psychiatrists are in a unique position to address sexuality given their focus on psychosocial and medical well-being. In this literature review, we examined the intersection between psychiatry and sexual health. Literature suggests that psychiatrists to not prioritize sexuality, and patients feel uncomfortable bringing up sexual health concerns. The data reported above in conjunction with psychiatry’s fraught history with sex emphasizes the need for psychiatrists to collaborate with sex educations in discussing sex with their patients.

Presenter

Kristen Lilla, LCSW, CST-S, CSE-S (she/they)

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

NASW – 1

Session Description

A student-centered approach helps people invest in the learning process and retain information. Active learning is also fun and increases engagement. This interactive workshop will help participants learn three different sex education lessons to teach consent in the classroom. Consent is an essential lesson for adolescents to learn throughout the lifespan as they navigate negotiating everything from sharing to sexual intimacy. This workshop promises to be both fun and engaging while offering tangible resources for educators to implement with their own students.

Presenter

Wendy Maskin

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

Session Description

Engage in ethical debate, practicing civil discourse. Explore tools from Harvard’s “Project Zero” to build compromise. Discover why this theory- and evidence-based approach works: collaboration in positive, inclusive, safe learning communities where every voice matters. Use developmental characteristics of adolescence to bolster critical thinking, engagement, and equity. Interact in a unique form of restorative circle to engage with student voice. Use the community of the classroom to build interpersonal skills for adolescents to handle sensitive topics in an emotionally safe setting.

Presenter

Shaakira Abdullah, PhD, DNP, FNP-BC (she/her)

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

APA – 1

NASW – 1

NBCC – 1

Session Description

Parents play a fundamental role in their children and teens’ positive sexual development, but generally have great difficulty discussing sexuality topics. This research session will review the study titled, ‘Halal Sex T.A.L.K.S.- Improving Parent-child Sexual Communication amongst Muslim Parents’ which used an online faith-based course for Muslim parents to teach them age-appropriate sex ed, infused with their values and beliefs. This safe space allowed Muslim parents to learn what to say and how to say it (something many Muslim parents were never taught growing up).

Presenter

Megan Valesey (she/they)

Christy Bloemendaal

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

APA – 1

NASW – 1

NBCC – 1

Session Description

Individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities are often left out of sexuality education due to caregivers, parents, and professionals restricting access to education and sexual expression, and prevailing ableist views on how sexuality should be experienced. Relational Frame Theory and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy provide avenues to address the harmful biases and stigmas associated with individual and group-based learning. Presenters will discuss original research that can change individual bias and values driven inclusionary efforts that expand access for this population.

Presenter

Emily Morehead, MA, LPC, PMH-C (She/Her)

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

NASW – 1

Session Description

This workshop will offer an evidence based treatment model for practitioners who are serving in the reproductive grief and loss community. Practitioners will leave this workshop feeling empowered to implement innovative treatment with practical application for healing in sexual response and functioning in the reproductive grief and loss community.

The People of Color (POC) SIG is an intentionally curated space for AASECT members who identify as a person of color (non-White racial/ethnic identities of Black/African, Indigenous, Latino/x/a, Asian, Middle Eastern, or another cultural identity).

While this is the newest iteration of the SIG; we honor the founding POC SIG members who created the space we now hold. This group intends to:

• Bring AASECT members who hold intersectional identities relating to race (POC) together in community
• Provide a safe space (POC specific) to share experiences, research & support
• Discuss the visibility & engagement of POC folks within & outside of AASECT
• Provide networking opportunities among POC members of AASECT.

This SIG meeting is designed to be a safe space for conference participants who identify as people of color; the SIG organizers respectfully request this be a closed space.

CE Credit

Special Interest Group participation does not count toward CE credit.

Registration

This is an AASECT members-only event open to those who identify as a person of color. Registration is not required.

Are you transgender and/or gender diverse (nonbinary, genderqueer, genderfluid, bigender, etc.) or gender questioning? If yes, this is the SIG for you! Join us for collaborating, peer support, resource sharing, and a touch of activism.

CE Credit

Special Interest Group participation does not count toward CE credit.

Registration

This is an AASECT members-only event. Registration is not required.

Get ready for a night like no other! Join us for Kinky Bingo, an evening filled with laughter, surprises, and cheeky fun. This isn’t your missionary style bingo night – prepare for a bold and tantalizing twist on a classic game. See you there!

What to Expect:

Engaging Bingo Rounds: Play multiple rounds of bingo with a twist, where every call brings a mix of excitement and playful antics.

Fabulous Prizes: Win risqué prizes ranging from sexy toys to seductive accessories and more. Our prizes are sure to add a spark to your evening!

Entertaining Hosts: Our lively and charismatic hosts will keep you entertained all night long with their witty banter and outrageous outfits.

Themed Attire (Optional but Welcomed!): Have fun and dress to impress with playful attire! Think leather, lace, boots, collars, & corsets! When choosing your outfit, please keep in mind that the AASECT Conference is held in a public space shared with people of all ages and backgrounds, including hotel staff, bystanders and other non-consenting parties who may not be aware of the event theme. We ask all attendees dress as they would in any indoor public space, avoiding nudity or excessively revealing outfits, to respect other hotel guests and our hotel partners. Thank you in advance for making the event a hit for the second year in a row!

Lively Libations: Enjoy the convenience of a cash bar available throughout the evening, allowing you to sip on your favorite drinks while immersing yourself in the vibrant and empowering world of drag entertainment.

Social and Safe Environment: Meet like-minded individuals in a welcoming and open atmosphere. We prioritize a respectful and inclusive environment where everyone can feel comfortable exploring their playful side.

Join us for a fun and exciting game room night! Get ready for an evening of friendly competition and laughter as we dive into a variety of classic and modern games. Whether you’re a board game enthusiast or just looking to have a good time, this event is perfect for you. Bring your competitive spirit and get ready to test your skills against friends old and new. Let’s make some unforgettable memories!

Calling all introverts and those in need of low-stimulation peace and quiet. We are thrilled this year to be offering an intentional place to settle at this year’s annual conference during Kinky Bingo and the Game Room. This room will be a designated area to express some excited energy or find your balance. Stop by to unwind, decompress, get creative, and recharge.

The Alternative Sexuality SIG provides a professional forum for members to inquire, exchange insights, and share resources on alternative sexuality topics.

CE Credit

Special Interest Group participation does not count toward CE credit.

Registration

This is an AASECT members-only event. Registration is not required.

Join us for the International Region Meet-up, where like-minded individuals from the International region will come together to discuss trends, share insights, and network with one another. This meet-up is a great opportunity to connect with professionals from the region and build valuable relationships. Don’t miss out on this chance to engage with the International Region community and gain new perspectives on the latest developments in our industry.

CE Credit

Meet-up participation does not count toward CE credit.

Registration

This is an AASECT members-only event. Registration is not required.

Join us for the Eastern Region Meet-up, where like-minded individuals from the Eastern region will come together to discuss trends, share insights, and network with one another. This meet-up is a great opportunity to connect with professionals from the region and build valuable relationships. Don’t miss out on this chance to engage with the Eastern Region community and gain new perspectives on the latest developments in our industry.

CE Credit

Meet-up participation does not count toward CE credit.

Registration

This is an AASECT members-only event. Registration is not required.

Presenters

Olivia McLeod, B.A. (She/Her)

Gabrielle Soe, MS, T/S (She/Her)

Session Description

This poster presentation presents an ethical decision-making model and guidelines for creating a secrets policy to address potential STD/STI disclosure in intimate relational therapy. We will explore the ethical nuances that address the AASECT Code of Conduct, the AAMFT Code of Ethics, HIPAA standards, and STD/STI stigma. Our aim is to help relational therapists include such insights into their own development of a secret policy for when couples disclose STD/STI health information.

Presenter

Nishita Raghu Rao MS (she/her)

Session Description

We constantly battle heteronormativity, colonial notions of sexuality, gender politics and reproductive autonomy. This presentation delves into the hidden world of genetics, neuroscience and medicine. We shall be discussing 11 sex chromosomal compositions that we know of today, presented alongside brain imaging studies of hypothalamic areas (BNST and SDN-POA/INAH 3 Cluster) that recognize gender change in an individual. Neural bases of monogamous and non-monogamous behaviors and advanced medical research into in-vitro gametogenesis and parthenogeneis, shall also be presented.

Presenters

Dawn Anderson, MD (she/her/hers)

Rebecca Anderson

Session Description

A review of clinical experience using testosterone in midlife women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) after starting a menopause center. After opening a menopause center in April 2021, we began prescribing compounded testosterone for perimenopausal and menopausal women with a decrease in libido and a diagnosis of HSDD.This will review the the effects of this treatment in terms of clinical improvement, serological changes in testosterone levels and impacts upon liver function testing.

Presenters

Kate Jansen

Session Description

Alexithymia, or the inability to label emotions with words, negatively impacts sexual functioning. The proposed program is a therapeutic group for men in couples therapy designed to address male normative alexithymia and provide EQ skills training. The program also serves as a tool to aid sex therapists working with men who struggle with these issues. Emotional identification, connection, and expression are central to sexual satisfaction; this program will ultimately contribute to improved therapeutic outcomes and aid in treating sexual dysfunction and enhancing sexual well-being in men.

Presenters

Nicole Sharf, M.A. Clinical Psychology (she/her)

Session Description

Disability stigma affects reproductive health access and bodily autonomy for women with spinal cord injuries (SCI). An area underexplored is menstrual well-being, contraception, and preventive screenings. A review of 21 articles showed 67% focused on at least one concept, revealing variability in health experiences among this population. Barriers include clinician biases, inaccessible infrastructure, and financial obstacles. More research needs to focus on the unique reproductive health challenges faced by women across the lifespan post-injury to improve healthcare equity and quality.

Presenters

Morgan Watkins, B.S. in Psychology (She/They)

Session Description

The purpose of this presentation is to highlight the historical and contemporary impacts of obstetric violence (OV), emphasizing the ways in which gendered violence perpetuated against birthing people by medical professionals negatively impacts physical and mental health. It is important to highlight the ways in which systemic oppression and discrimination within the medical field work to disenfranchise individuals with marginalized identities. Further, understanding the negative impacts of Westernized and medicalized birthing practices cultivates an understanding of why OV is so devastating.

Presenters

Jeff Lundgren, CMHC, CST, PATP (he, him)

Session Description

Explore the intersection between psychedelics and sex therapy. A look into the historical and scientific foundations of psychedelic substances progresses to modern sex therapy techniques and culminates in the study of their neurochemical and emotional interplay. Addressing practical considerations in implementing Psychedelic-Assisted Sex Therapy, including clinical models, safety protocols, legal concerns, and ethical nuances.

Presenters

Jessica Benge, MA, T/S (She/Her)

Session Description

The proposed poster presentation will seek to provide therapists with an overview of how to conceptualize incest trauma within the framework of Internal Family Systems (IFS). In this visually engaging and informative display, we will explore the complexities of incest trauma through the lens of IFS and offer insights into therapeutic approaches that can facilitate healing and growth. We will include four fictional case studies, each representing a distinct aspect of incest trauma, including varying family dynamics and individual experiences.

Presenters

Sophie Tobin (she/her)

Session Description

This presentation explores how lindy hop, a partnered swing dance, can be utilized in both individuals’ and couples’ sex therapy treatment as an intervention to explore gender, sexuality, trust, physical touch, and somatics. Because swing is a partnered dance with two different roles (‘lead’ and ‘follow’), participants can explore how the physical mechanics of the dance differ according to which role they prefer. This presentation also includes original ethnographic, interview, and survey data detailing the role that gender, sexuality, and queerness play in lindy hop.

Presenters

Katie Heiden-Rootes, PhD (she/her)

Whitney Linsenmeyer, PhD, RD, LD (She/her)

Willow Rosen

Michelle Dalton

Beth Gombos, BA (they/them/theirs)

Intended Audience

Educators, Counselors, Therapists, Supervisors

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

APA – 1

Session Description

The panel presentation will describe the creation and utilization of an accessible and engaging resource written with clinical educators and transgender advocates, called Advancing Inclusion of Transgender and Gender Diverse Identities in Clinical Education: A Toolkit for Clinical Educators. The panel will include the authors discussing the best practices, application of best practices to interprofessional clinical education, and lessons learned together as co-educators.

Presenter

Iris Olson (they/them and he/him)

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

Session Description

Our team conducted an online mixed methods survey of the breeding kink community in the U.S. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the impacts of the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization Supreme Cout decision and later state-based legislative changes concerning reproductive/sexual health policy changes as well as better understanding how policy may change sexual activity, sexual and reproductive health decision-making, and sexual pleasure in the breeding kink community.

Presenters

Katherine Arenella

Taymy Caso

Madison Dabbs-Petty, MEd

Alan Smith, BA (he/him)

Katie Spencer

Matthew Lawton

Joey Sheung

Intended Audience

Educators, Counselors, Therapists, Supervisors

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

NASW – 1

NBCC – 1

Session Description

This dialogue panel presentation will explore human sexuality training in psychology graduate programs, queer and trans kink and BDSM, and the relationship between racial capitalism and transformative justice. Presentations include faculty, student, and therapist perspectives. Facilitated discussion will center how therapists and educators can use decolonizing pedagogies to radically transform queer and trans sexual health care. Panelists and audience members will engage in dialogue on how best to improve culturally responsive sexual health care to reduce health disparities.

Presenter

Tatyannah King, MSW, MEd

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

APA – 1

NASW – 1

NBCC – 1

Session Description

While physical and psychological factors are heavily acknowledged and identified within the biopsychosocial approach to sex therapy, the influence of social and cultural factors often receives less attention in clinical settings. In reality, our cultural upbringing sets the tone for what we value in regard to sexual values, from beliefs regarding conventional sexual behavior and appropriate expression of sexuality to decisions we make regarding mate selection. This panel presentation analyzes how sociocultural factors may influence sexual development, sexual relationships, and sexual function.

Presenter

Remi Newman (she)

Jason Villarin, PhD, DPT, FAAOMPT (he/him)

Jose Trejo, LCSW

Becky Lynn

Intended Audience

Educators, Counselors, Therapists, Medical Professionals

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

Session Description

Sexual health concerns often benefit from multidisciplinary treatment and care collaboration. This panel discussion will provide varied perspectives on common sexuality concerns from the lens of a medical doctor, a pelvic health physical therapist, a sex therapist, and a sexuality educator. We will discuss the ways we collaborate with colleagues to help individuals with a variety of sexual health concerns including challenges with erections and/or ejaculation, dyspareunia, vaginismus, libido concerns, anorgasmia, STI prevention and care, gender transition care and more.

Presenters

Kristen Lilla, LCSW, CST-S, CSE-S (she/they)

Shelley Stephens, LPC CST (she/they)

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

NASW – 1

NBCC – 1

Session Description

As sex educators, counselors, and therapists we work with a variety of people, many of whom are neurodivergent. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects millions of people and affects how a person focuses and what they focus on. How does ADHD affect interpersonal relationships? How does it affect sexual dynamics? How does ADHD disparage women and people of color in getting a proper diagnosis? This workshop will explore these questions and offer interventions and resources for clinicians, counselors, and educators to utilize.

Presenters

Julie Lehman

Anna Randall, LCSW, MPH, DHS (she/her)

Kristine Chadwick, PhD (she/her)

Iris Olson (they/them and he/him)

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

APA – 1

NBCC – 1

Session Description

Presenters will share original research exploring the conditions for healing from past trauma and flourishing via kink involvement, as well as possible alignment of AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy) to those conditions. Participants will be invited to discuss clinical implications of the study’s findings in small and large groups, and will leave knowing more about healing and flourishing with kink, about AEDP and how this clinical approach relates to kink, and with a fresh perspective in caring for kink-involved clients.

Presenters

Amanda Long (she/they)

Gretchen Schulthes

Gideon Litherland

Kirsis Dipre

Fallon Calandriello

Katherine Claire Boldt

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

APA – 1

NASW – 1

NBCC – 1

Session Description

Abortion care providers (ACP) are subject to layers of stressors that negatively impact their mental health, including the emotional toll of their jobs, professional stigma, unprecedented legislative hurdles in a post-Roe world, and clinical site violence and protests. Scant scholarship appears to focus on the mental health needs of ACP. This session will include a discussion of the mental health needs of ACP based on our scoping review research. Recognizing and addressing these needs, allows us to better support the professionals who play a crucial role in reproductive healthcare.

Presenters

Gabrielle Evans, PhD, MPH, CHES (she/her)

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

APA – 1

Session Description

Sexual health education programs should be trauma-informed and inclusive while reflecting one’s cultural values and traditional teachings to align with community assets and reproductive health values. Due to colonization, Native Americans face higher rates of sexual and reproductive health inequities. Therefore, this presentation will discuss sexual and reproductive health professionals’ perspectives on how collective trauma affects the sexual health of Native American older adolescents and young adult women between the ages of 15-25 years old.

Presenters

Jaimie Hileman, WPATH (she/her)

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

APA – 1

NASW – 1

NBCC – 1

Session Description

As AASECT educators and counselors working with and for Trans and gender expansive folk we have seen in 2023 unprecedented and vicious attacks on these communities as well as our ability to educate and advocate. As a Trans/LGBTQ+ cultural competency and DEI educator serving both sides of the Mississippi river in MO and IL in the St. Louis metro area, my practice has gifted me unique perspective on operating in both hostile and supportive states. These experiences inform this facilitation, offering practical application and solutions for maintaining educational/practice opportunities.

Presenters

Fariba Arabghani, BA, ABS (she/her)

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

APA – 1

Session Description

Despite sex work’s significant societal and historical relevance, the perspectives and knowledge of sex workers remains overlooked and excluded from sexological research, public health, education, and therapeutic practice. Drawing from the unique lens of a queer BIPOC sex worker-turned-sexologist and living with disabilities, this workshop underscores the untapped reservoir of culturally significant and important insights that sex workers can provide, creating more inclusive, effective, and empathetic care for all.

Presenters

Sheila Addison, PhD, LMFT, CST (she/her/hers)

Intended Audience

Therapists, Supervisors

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

APA – 1

NASW – 1

NBCC – 1

Session Description

Sex therapy demands nuanced, skillful application to address clients’ diverse and sensitive concerns. Training methods such as didactic lectures and case review with supervisors have limitations in building the clinical skills required for effective sex therapy. Deliberate Practice (DP), a method of specific, targeted skills improvement through iterative practice with immediate feedback, can significantly enhance therapeutic proficiency and client outcomes. This workshop will explore how DP can help sex therapists of all skill levels build more effective and empathetic sex therapy practices.

Presenters

Emily Nagoski, PhD (She/her)

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

APA – 1

NASW – 1

NBCC – 1

Session Description

Let’s take a whole-brain approach to ‘loss of desire’ and other changes in sexual responsiveness, by mapping our ’emotional floorplans.’ Grounded in affective neuroscience and applying lessons from the Polyvagal theory, the dual control model, and Internal Family Systems, this workshop will teach participants to ‘map’ the 7 primary process emotions and trace paths from the pleasure-adverse spaces where we get stuck, to the pleasure-favorable spaces that lead into a sexy state of mind – the LUST space. This is a practical tool for exploring how to greater create access to pleasure.

Presenters

Nomi Ostrander, PhD, MPH, LICSW, CST (she/they/fae/faer)

Jacinda Gardner

Taylor Grosse

Ashley Thompson

Intended Audience

Educators, Counselors, Therapists

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

APA – 1

Session Description

Research on mixed-sex threesomes (MSTs) has largely been limited to quantitative assessments of attitudes and interests. This study examined the ways in which MSTs are initiated and negotiated. To understand these processes 116 people were recruited through a popular mobile application focused on threesomes. The results demonstrate the amount of planning and forethought that often goes into MSTs. Furthermore, the participant insights provide practical guidance for sex therapists and sex educators who work with clients who participate in MSTs.

Friday, June 14, 2024, at 4:00 PM

Exhibitors may begin dismantling displays at 4:00 PM on Friday, June 14, 2024. We encourage exhibitors not to dismantle or remove your booth materials before that time.

If you have any questions regarding your exhibitor or sponsorship package or would like to add a tote bag insert or add to your package, please contact Annie Bournas – conference@aasect.org.

The mission of the AASECT Disability Justice Special Interest Group is to center the lived experiences and needs of disabled people in sex education and sexual wellbeing discussions. We seek to improve the accessibility of sex education and sexual health for all disabled people by accomplishing the following aims:

• Providing a forum for members to share knowledge about disability, sexuality, and disability justice organizing
• Organizing for accessibility within sex education, counselor, and therapy spaces
• Hosting continuing education opportunities to improve AASECT members’ knowledge about disability and sexuality, as well as improving accessibility of their own practices

CE Credit

Special Interest Group participation does not count toward CE credit.

Registration

This is an AASECT members-only event. Registration is not required.

This SIG is for all sexuality educators, or people who consider sexuality education as part of their career description, who want to be a part of a community of other educators. This SIG will provide support, share resources, learn from each other’s experiences and wisdom, discuss the issues that are important to us as educators, emphasize the importance of our work, and create a voice that defines our roles separately from therapists and counselors.

CE Credit

Special Interest Group participation does not count toward CE credit.

Registration

This is an AASECT members-only event. Registration is not required.

Presenter

Daniella Robinson

Catherina Blair (she/her)

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

APA – 1

Session Description

This fireside chat queries expectations for sex/consent education and its implementation, while imagining new possibilities for the field. Discussant one is a PhD in Human Sexuality Candidate, who supports Indigenous survivors of sexual trauma. Her study focuses on pleasure education, grounded in Indigenous epistemologies of pleasure and pedagogical approaches. Discussant two is a MA student in Social Justice Education, while also being the lead writer for a sexual violence prevention resource for students. Her study focuses on sexual and gender-based violence prevention in higher education.

The objective of the fireside chat is to have a rich dialogue about sex/consent education ‘is’ (expectations) and what is looks like in practice, in different spaces, from transdisciplinary perspectives. We want to complicate ‘buzz words’ (ie. consent, pleasure, education) and image new possibilities for sex/consent education with folks in different fields who are interested in creating change.

Presenters

Jessica Swanson

Jill McCracken

Emma Stevenson

Session Description

This presentation examines the impact of an evidence-informed sexual health education curriculum within the context of program evaluation and innovation. We describe an innovative, transdisciplinary, community-guided, trauma-informed sex education program that recognizes multiple systems of oppression and aims to decrease gender-based and sexual violence, medical racism and trafficking in the sex industry. We present findings from our federally-funded implementation and evaluation of this program and discuss lessons learned and best practices developed over the course of the funding period.

Presenters

Liana Cools, LMHC, CST (She/Her/Hers)

Session Description

This presentation explores the psychosexual development of Afro-Caribbean women in the English-speaking Caribbean. It investigates the complex interplay between cultural sexual messages conveyed through food, music, cultural events, and intergenerational wisdom. Through this examination, we aim to uncover the profound influence of these messages on the sexual beliefs and practices of Afro-Caribbean women. As we navigate this terrain, we seek to unveil the predominant cultural narratives that shape their sexual identities. This presentation provides a fresh perspective on the

Presenters

Brenda Babirye (She, Her, Has)

Session Description

Sexuality is a crucial aspect of human life, and understanding its expression is necessary for physical, emotional, and social well-being. Despite the significance of this topic, there is a paucity of research related to sex and sexuality among women of East African descent. Existing research has primarily focused on HIV/AIDS prevention and reproductive health, leaving the broader topic of female sexuality unexplored. This presentation aims to address this gap by exploring the diverse experiences of East African women in the US regarding their sexuality.

Presenters

Kam Barker, MS (she/her)

Session Description

Drag queen story hours, typically hosted in libraries for audiences of children to promote self-expression, acceptance, and community, have been receiving significant pushback from individuals, organizations, media companies, and lawmakers. This research examined perceptions of family friendly drag events through a Relational Density Theory framework using a multidimensional scaling procedure. Participants were asked to rate the strength of relatedness between words and phrases used in news coverage of family friendly drag events on both Fox News and CNN and from the Drag Story Hour website.

Presenters

Erica Czajkowski, MS, NCC (she/her)

Session Description

The importance of sex education has been supported for decades, however, sex education in the US is neither compulsory nor standardized, being left to states or school districts decisions on its delivery. By exploring and reviewing how other countries approach sex education and comparing rates of teen pregnancies we can expand our knowledge of which protocols work best. This information can be used to show how topics should be broached and in what format sex education should be delivered providing evidence for the need to standardize and mandate sex education.

Presenters

Katherine Arenella

Session Description

Asian Americans are less likely than other racial groups to seek mental health care, including sex therapy services. One important consideration in preparing sex therapists to work competently with Asian Americans is the topic of Parent-Child Sex Communication (PCSC). This poster will provide a detailed summary reviewing the research on PCSC trends in Asian American households, as well as the effects this has on Asian Americans and their sexualities. This poster will also address the cultural nuances that sex therapists and researchers should consider when working with this population.

Presenters

Kate Jansen

Session Description

The LGBTQ+ community has historically been blamed for the disproportionate rates of mental health concerns, including suicidality, observed within the community. However, the present study provides support to the argument that society is implicated in the rates of suicidality among transgender and gender-nonconforming (TGNC) persons, as opposed to inherent, preexisting psychopathology. As educators and clinicians, it is our responsibility to support TGNC clients and help shift conversations from what is wrong with TGNC persons to how their environments harm them and may better support them.

Presenters

Sara Oswalt, MPH, PhD, CSE (she/her)

Joleen Nevers

Heather Eastman-Mueller, PhD, CSE, CSES, CHES (She/her/hers)

Session Description

This poster shares results from a research study that examined how sexuality educators perceive the value of certification and for those who have sought certification, their experiences with the process. Results from certified and non-certified sexuality educators will be presented.

The mission of the AASECT Sexuality & Aging Special Interest Group is to enhance the sexual health, knowledge and well-being of people in mid- and later life by increasing the knowledge and skills of AASECT members who work with them and/or the professionals and caregivers who serve them.

CE Credit

Special Interest Group participation does not count toward CE credit.

Registration

This is an AASECT members-only event. Registration is not required.

The Sexuality & Religion SIG provides a way for members to connect and actively engage with one another. The mission of this group is to:

• Promote religious competency among clinicians, counselors, and educators.
• Encourage sex and sexuality training for clergy.
• Facilitate networking among clinicians, counselors, and educators working with religious clients.
• Offer events for religious clients to help foster healing and personal growth.

CE Credit

Special Interest Group participation does not count toward CE credit.

Registration

This is an AASECT members-only. Registration is not required.

The Somatic Sexuality Professional (SSP) special interest group seeks to create a space for professionals who utilize intimate touch in their practice. These professionals may include, but are not limited to: surrogate partners, somatic sex educators, clinical sexologists, and cuddilists. The goals of this SIG are to:

• Create open dialogue among SSPs in order to discuss professional and ethical boundaries or each modality, especially with respect to work that intersects with other AASECT professionals.
• Provide education to the larger therapeutic community regarding the theory, practice, and professional and ethical boundaries of various somatic sexuality professions.
• Aid in informed policymaking with respect to the collaborative practice between SSPs and the broader therapeutic community. 

CE Credit

Special Interest Group participation does not count toward CE credit.

Registration

This is an AASECT members-only. Registration is not required.

Presenters

Karen Caffee, PhD, LMFT, CST (she/her)

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

NASW – 1

NBCC – 1

Session Description

My research focuses on the clients’ experiences when discussing sex with their therapists. I surveyed folx that had attended therapy and attempted to discuss a sex/sex-related topic with their therapist. Participants responded about their perceptions therapy and the clinicians. Participants provided insight into helpful and harmful practices enacted in therapy by their therapist. Results show that some clinicians are navigating sexological topics well and others are not. Clinical implications include addressing social injustices and unethical practices for clinicians guided by clients’ voices.

Presenters

Nomi Ostrander, PhD, MPH, LICSW, CST (she/they/fae/faer)

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

APA – 1

NASW – 1

NBCC – 1

Session Description

Mainstream visibility of transgender individuals and their families has increased over the past decade. Popular media representations have trickled into US culture with stories detailing someone’s transition experience, along with the transition’s impact on their romantic relationships. Researchers have explored specific challenges for couples to navigate in this transition. This study, however, is the first to understand the transition process from both romantic partners. The results will help therapist understand the co-transitions that occur when one partner comes out as Trans.

Presenters

Rachael Gibson, PhD, MPH, MS, MEd (she/her/ella)

Intended Audience

Educators

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

APA – 1

Session Description

The goal of this workshop is to support sex educators in developing programs, curriculum, and partnerships with school-based health education teachers and administrators. Participants will learn the theoretical underpinnings of comprehensive, skills-based health education in the K-12 setting. This interactive session will guide participants in their development and integration of comprehensive sex education concepts and skills into health education lessons. Participants will leave this workshop with tangible resources and skills supporting the building of school-based partnerships.

Presenter

Tammy Fisher, MA, LPC-S, LMFT-S (she/her)

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

APA – 1

Session Description

Understanding the perspective of the ‘bull’ of color in cuckolding is not only significant but necessary. This dynamic, shrouded in uncomfortable racial undertones, has remained unexplored, casting a shadow over this specific kink. Is there an element of fetishization at play? Is there racism hidden beneath the surface excitement? Does this perpetuate harmful stereotypes for men of color? This research aims to delve into these questions, shedding light on the experiences and perceptions of the ‘bull’ of color.

Presenter

Tamara Welikson, PhD (she)

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

APA – 1

Session Description

This presentation will address the role of sexual dysfunction as an early indicator of psychosis risk symptomatology, and how to assess for and identify early psychosis experiences to prevent the development of serious mental health conditions. Due to symptom overlap and varied provider comfort levels working with individuals who experience psychosis or sexual dysfunction concerns, it is essential for early psychosis providers and sex therapists to collaborate, and for sex therapists to understand warning signs for psychosis risk, treatment approaches, and referral resources.

Presenter

Willow Rosen (they/them/theirs)

Intended Audience

All Audiences

CE Credits

AASECT – 1

APA – 1

NBCC – 1

Session Description

Mx. Willow has been working for over a decade in transgender and gender expansive healthcare support, education and training. Working to provide accurate, data informed education to the transgender and gender expansive community through workshops, classes, and resource sharing. Tackling change in health care systems through provider training, business consultation, and workplace culture shift programming. Their work has garnered multiple awards, including TIME magazine’s Innovative Teacher award in 2022.