‘Sexuality Counseling: Theory, Research, and Practice is an important resource for mental health practitioners. Sexuality is complex and rather than attempting to simplify, this book works within that complexity in a well-organized and comprehensive way.’
– Alexandra H. Solomon,
Northwestern University
Providing a comprehensive, research- and theory-based approach to sexuality counseling, this accessible and engaging book is grounded in an integrative, multi-level conceptual framework that addresses the various levels at which individuals experience sexuality. At each level (physiological, developmental, psychological, gender identity and sexual orientation, relational, cultural/contextual, and positive sexuality), the authors emphasize practical strategies for assessment and intervention. Interactive features, including case studies, application exercises, ethics discussions, and guided reflection questions, help readers apply and integrate the information as they develop the professional competency needed for effective practice.
Cuprins
Series Editors’ Preface: Introduction to the Series, by Richard Parsons and Naijian Zhang
Acknowledgments
About the Authors
Chapter 1: Addressing Sexuality in Professional Counseling
Defining Sexuality
A Comprehensive, Contextual Framework for Understanding Sexuality
Professional Issues in Sexuality Counseling
Professional Competence in Sexuality Counseling
Ethical Considerations for Sexuality Counseling
Interdisciplinary Collaborations for Sexuality Counseling
Overview of the Remainder of This Book
Chapter 2: Assessment in Sexuality Counseling
General Assessment Strategies
Dimensions of Assessment in Sexuality Counseling
Physiology
Appendix: Directory of Selected Instruments for Assessing Sexuality
Chapter 3: General Interventions and Theoretical Approaches to Sexuality Counseling
General Guidelines for Sexuality Counseling
Review of Approaches to Sexuality Counseling
Treatment for Specific Sexuality Concerns and Using Unique Treatment Modalities
Treatment Outcomes in Sexuality Counseling
Chapter 4: Physiology and Sexual Health
Overview of Physiology and Anatomy Related to Sexual Functioning
Safer Sex Practices
Physical Health Issues
Reproductive Health
Chapter 5: Lifespan Development and Sexuality
Sexuality Across the Life Cycle: An Overview
Sexuality in Childhood
Sexuality in Adolescence
Sexuality in Adulthood
Chapter 6: Sexuality and Mental Health
Sexual Decision Making
Sexual Implications of Mental Health Disorders
Substance Abuse and Sexuality
Sexual Dysfunctions
Sexual Trauma
Chapter 7: Gender Identity and Affectional/Sexual Orientation
Defining Gender Identity and Affectional/Sexual Orientation
Historical, Societal, and Cultural Context
Traditional Sexual Ideologies
Gender Identity
Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Affectional Orientations
Ethical Concerns in Working With LGBTIQQA Clients
Chapter 8: Sexuality and Intimate Relationships
The Dynamics of Couple Relationships
Integrating Sexuality Counseling With Couples Counseling
Sexuality Counseling for Specific Relationship Concerns
Chapter 9: Cultural and Contextual Influences on Sexuality
An Intersectional Approach to Understanding Culture and Sexuality
Religion and Sexuality
Race, Culture, Ethnicity, and Sexuality
Socioeconomic Status and Sexuality
Sexuality and Geographic and Regional Variations
Sexuality and the Media
Counseling Strategies for Addressing Cultural and Contextual Influences on Sexuality
Chapter 10: Positive Sexuality: A New Paradigm for Sexuality Counseling
Defining Positive Sexuality
Factors Supporting Positive Sexuality: Revisiting the Contextualized Sexuality Model
Benefits of Positive Sexuality
Counseling Strategies to Help Clients Foster Positive Sexuality
Epilogue: From the Author’s Chair
References
Index
Despre autor
Ben T. Willis is an Assistant Professor and co-Program Director of the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program at the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania. He regularly teaches and supervises master’s in counseling students in research methods, assessment and diagnosis, group process and practice, professional issues, practicum, and internship. Dr. Willis received his M.S. with a specialization in Couples and Family Counseling and his Ph.D. in Counselor Education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. He received his bachelor’s degree in biology from the UNC Chapel Hill. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in North Carolina as well as a National Certified Counselor and Approved Clinical Supervisor. He has experience counseling in community agency, private practice, and college university settings working with a variety of presenting concerns including mood, anxiety, identity, relationship, development and adjustment, sexuality, substance issues, child abuse/neglect, and health concerns. He has completed an externship in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and utilizes a developmental and wellness approach in working with clients and students. His research is focused around how people develop and change their self-conceptualization of specific identities as well as their general sense of self.