Did you know that New York State and most other states do not require mental health professionals to have specific training in sexual issues? In fact, it is estimated that up to 95% of therapists do not have any specific sexual training. This can make it difficult for them to even discuss sex issues comfortably with clients.
My sex specific training started while in grad school for Mental Health Counseling at St John Fisher University where I completed 45 hours of training on issues like sexual anatomy/physiology, male and female sexual dysfunctions, gender identity, paraphilias (aka fetishes), and more. Since graduating I have maintained a commitment to learning more about sex and have taken many trainings over the years. I am an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist and most recently I graduted with my PhD in Clincial Sexology from Modern Sex Therapy Institutes.
Aside from my extensive, I bring a positive, respectful approach to sex. I believe everyone deserves to have pleasurable and safe sexual experiences free of coercion and discrimination. Sex, sexuality, and gender are all very important parts of not only our mental health but our overall wellbeing. It is important for me to help clients move towards positive sexual health. What does that mean? Simply put, I believe we should all be able to enjoy sex regardless of our orientation, gender, or interest/turn on.
In addition to being a Sex Therapist and Mental Health Counselor, Annette is the author of the soon to be published self-help book, Every Body Is a Sexy Body. For more information, click here.