Oct. 1, 2027
10-12:45 p.m. PT (includes one 10-min. break)
$225

2.5 AASECT CEs

Facilitator: Paula Leech, LMFT, CST, CSTS

Whether we choose to work with youth, or we find ourselves consulting or collaborating with those that do, having an expansive understanding of youth sexuality is an invaluable tool for sexuality professionals. Youth Sexuality and Pleasure is a course for progressive clinicians who want to build a more informed, bias-aware understanding of youth sexual development so they can better support the young people - as well as parents and caregivers - in their professional lives.

What’s the difference between “normal” and “problematic” sexual behavior for kids, and how can I tell in a clinical context? Is it harmful or helpful for a therapist to discuss pleasure with youth? How young is “too young” for someone to engage in sexual expression, and who decides? How do I work with adults who are outraged or disgusted? What do I do when I feel uncomfortable or uncertain about how to proceed?

This course is open to all sexuality professionals. It is required for those completing the EDST Sex Therapy Certification.

By the end of this course, attendees will be able to:

• Define “adult supremacy” and its impact on youth sexual development

• Critique common clinical protocols used for evaluating “normal” and “healthy” with regard to youth sexual expression

• Recall common ways that youth sexual development can be sexualized in therapeutic contexts

• Apply harm reduction tools and strategies for working with youth engaging in sexual behavior deemed as “problematic”

• Evaluate personal biases related to youth sexuality

This course meets the requirements of the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) and is approved for 2.5 CE credits. These CE credits may be applied toward AASECT certification and renewal of certification. Completion of this program does not ensure or guarantee AASECT certification. For further information please contact info@aasect.org.