An Introduction to Proposed Human Sexuality Counseling Competencies
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
6-1-2018
Abstract
The presentation of human sexuality information within counselor education programs seems inconsistent, leaving counselors typically underprepared to handle the sexuality-related components of many clients’ distress. Addressing this gap, the present article, using guidance from the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT), proposes 10 human sexuality counseling competency domains to aid counselors in working more effectively and comprehensively with clients. These domains are: Ethical/Professional Behavior, History and Systems, Anatomy/Physiology, Sexual Identity, Sexual Development, Intimacy and Interpersonal Relationships, Pleasure and Sexual Lifestyles, Sexual Functioning, Health/Medical Factors, and Sexual Exploitation. Clinical implications are discussed and include improved case conceptualization and developing counselor competence. Opportunities for future research are presented as they relate to counselor education and training.
Publication Title
International Journal for the Advancement of Counselling
Volume
40
Issue
2
First Page
105
Last Page
121
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
10.1007/s10447-017-9314-y
ISSN
01650653
Citation Information
Zeglin, Van Dam, D., & Hergenrather, K. C. (2017). An Introduction to Proposed Human Sexuality Counseling Competencies. International Journal for the Advancement of Counselling, 40(2), 105–121. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10447-017-9314-y