Sexuality in Adult Survivors of Childhood Abuse

In this course, Anisa Varasteh (clinical sexologist; President, Society of Australian Sexologists) introduces the topic of sexuality by asking you to reflect on various aspects of sexuality, sexual attitudes, and sexual beliefs, explaining that the therapist’s values and attitudes toward sexuality affect the therapeutic relationship and the process of therapy. Of paramount importance in working with survivors of childhood abuse is that the client feel safe; Varasteh outlines techniques to foster safety in session so that sexuality-related issues can be explored. She discusses strategies to support survivor-clients with complex PTSD (C-PTSD) to experience fulfilling sexual relationships.