Differences in sexual desire are among the most common presenting issues in sex therapy - and also among the most misunderstood.
This training explores the systemic factors that shape how desire is experienced and perceived, helping practitioners move beyond pathologising or “fixing” desire discrepancies. Participants will learn therapeutic approaches that foster understanding, connection, and attunement, while challenging cultural attitudes that reinforce pressure, performance, and expectation in sexual relationships.
Course features include:
- Interactive quizzes to support learning and understanding
- Downloadable resources and assessment guides
- Case studies illustrating real-world clinical applications
- Self-paced lessons, so you can learn and reflect at your own pace
-
Live group supervision to connect with like minded peers and apply your understanding clinical examples
What is included:
- Access to online training modules - unlimited time
- Access to a 1 hour Zoom group supervision led by Dr Sarah Ashton, following completion of the course
- Downloadable sexual history guide
- Certificate of completion
Suitable for:
- Psychologists
- Social workers
- Counsellors
- Nurses
- Psychiatrists
- Sex therapists
- GPs
-
Students undertaking education in all of the above
Level of experience required:
- Undertaking or completed qualifications in psychology or above disciplines
-
No experience with sexual therapy necessary
Length:
- 2-3 hours, plus 1 hour group supervision
- CPD hours: 4
Duration of Access:
Unlimited. Once you sign up, you can take as long as you like to complete the course.
Curriculum
- The problem with 'fixing' desire differences (1:51)
- Individually: Building awareness - mapping factors that influence desire (1:12)
- Relationally: Building awareness - mapping factors that influence desire (0:54)
- Systemically: Building awareness - mapping factors that influence desire (0:39)
- Challenging assumptions (5:29)
- Understanding underlying needs (2:31)
- Re-creating the script (2:23)
- Evaluating priorities and the importance of sex and intimacy (3:06)
- Validation and exploration of individual differences (1:23)
- Worksheet for clients
- Quiz
- Section summary
Explore ideas via case studies
Learn to apply the course concepts to multiple case studies and consolidate therapeutic presentations and approaches.
Research-based
In this course Dr. Sarah Ashton draws on current research to inform inclusive practice and understanding.
Group supervision with peers
Each course includes a 1-hour group supervision following the completion of the content. Facilitated by Dr. Sarah Ashton, you’ll connect with other students, explore case studies, and gain a deeper understanding of the course application.
Hi, I'm your trainer Dr Sarah Ashton!
Sarah (she/her) is the Director and Founder of the first psychology practice dedicated to sexual health treatment – SHIPS and is the Founder and Lead Training Author of Sexual Health and Intimacy Psychological Training. Sarah is a registered psychologist (AHPRA), board approved supervisor (AHPRA), member of the Society of Australian Sexologists and has worked with clients in the sexual health field for over 15 years. She is the Coordinator for the Sexual and Mental Health Primary Health Network, and a Sessional Lecturer at RMIT University. She is a published researcher in The Journal of Sex Research, Porn Studies, Feminism & Psychology, and has written articles for The Conversation and Red Magazine. Sarah has been a guest speaker on Joy FM and ABC radio. Sarah brings a warm, down-to-earth, compassionate approach to therapy and leading her practice. She loves what she does and wants to share this important area of knowledge with emerging and established practitioners.
Other courses
ISHPA Blogs
ISHPA blogs support students and practitioners working at the intersection of sexuality, intimacy, and mental health.
SHIPS Clinic Blogs
Our affiliate clinic, SHIPS, publishes regular blogs written by practising psychologists, focusing on the issues clients commonly bring to therapy.
SHIPS Self-Help
SHIPS Self-Help offers inclusive, trauma-informed, and neuro-affirming resources and online courses for the general public to learn about sex, intimacy, and relationships.
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