Sexuality Counseling

Catalog description

This course introduces counseling issues related to sexuality and gender in contemporary society. Through course readings, experiential activities, and asynchronous class discussions, students will critically examine their own comfort levels in discussing sexuality, analyzing challenging topics that may arise in client sessions. Students will develop an awareness of societal issues pertinent to individuals with diverse genders and sexualities and demonstrate knowledge of counseling approaches and interventions specific to the lived experiences of these populations. This course encourages students to explore how their views on gender and sexuality have been shaped by historical and sociopolitical contexts, as well as by their own lived experiences. Students will evaluate sexuality development across the lifespan, distinguishing developmentally appropriate issues from sexual disorders and mental health concerns to inform case conceptualization and treatment. Additionally, this course addresses ethical and cultural considerations essential for working with clients on sexuality-related issues, with particular attention to applying these principles in practice. Topics include biopsychosocial development; cultural factors affecting gender socialization; sexual and affectional orientation; social and family systems considerations; and aspects of gender and sexuality in mental health. An intersectional approach, which includes awareness of multiple social locations (e.g., gender, race, class, ethnicity, religion, age, affectional/sexual orientation, ability, size, immigration status, etc.), will be central to all discussions.