Getting Beyond Myths and Stereotypes

Tammy Nelson

Working with some clients’ edgy erotic behavior can challenge a therapist’s own values and deeply held beliefs about sex and relationships. This workshop will include videos, live demonstrations, and small-group discussion about unconventional sexual practices to help therapists face their own preconceived notions and countertransference issues around eroticism and intimacy. In this workshop, you’ll:

• Identify and work through your own sex-related stereotypes, resistance, guilt, and shame to create a safe, comfortable, and nonjudgmental environment for clients
• Explore such issues as alternative sexual practices, open relationships and non-monogamy, fetishes and paraphilias, BDSM and kink, cross-dressing, and a range of other behaviors
• Assess responses and any vicarious trauma that may be triggered by issues around pornography, unconventional sexual behavior, and other fringe erotic practices
• Expand your ability to communicate about sexual issues in the consulting room

Tammy Nelson, PhD, is a board-certified sexologist, certified Sex Therapist Supervisor, certified Imago therapist, licensed professional counselor, and author of Getting the Sex You Want and The New Monogamy.