Introduction to Alternative Sexualities and Working with Relational Transitioning(4 CE Hours)Presenter:Michael Aaron, Ph.D.

Description:

This class discusses how to work with relationships that are transitioning from “vanilla” heteronormative types of structures to more alternative relationship forms. We will discuss communication problems that may arise, differences in desire and wants and needs as they relate to relationships in transition, as well as specific kinds of transitions that are most commonly seen in clinical practice. This class covers coming out issues, revealing desires around kink/BDSM, transition in consensual nonmonogamy (CNM), as well as mixed orientation relationships.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify at least 3 types of common consensually nonmonogamous types of relationshipsand differentiate between their unique needs
• Identify at least 3 types of power dynamics commonly found in relationships and differentiateunique challenges that each may encounter
• Identify the various stages of partner differentiation
• Discuss attachment styles and how they play out in relationships

Activity Schedule:

Communication Problems (1.5 hrs):

• Didactic- conflict/avoidance, highly reactive partners, pursuer/distance dynamics
• Specific clinical interventions- collaborative communication, listening/feedback exercises
• Case Discussions

Desire Discrepancy (1hr):

• Didactic—reasons for discrepancy, types of desire, research on peak experiences, what makes sex good
• Specific clinical interventions- communicating around sex, sexual menus, planning time, negotiating needs

Relationship Transitions (1.5 hrs):

• Didactic- coming out issues, transitioning into CNM, mixed orientation relationships
• Specific clinical interventions- negotiating transitions, planning staged approaches
• Case Discussions

Speaker Bio:

Michael Aaron, Ph.D., is a psychotherapist, author, and speaker, specializing in the field of human sexuality. He is a recognized expert on a variety of sexuality issues, including sexual minorities, alternative/kink/polyamory lifestyles, sex workers, discordant desire and infidelity in couples, sexual dysfunction and anxiety, gender and orientation confusion, and sexual compulsivity. He has been interviewed in numerous media outlets, online podcasts, and magazines, such as the New York Times, Wall St Journal, CNN, Reuters, Huffington Post, Cosmopolitan, Men’s Health, Women’s Health, Men’s Fitness and Vice.com. He is a member of the Advisory Board of Men’s Fitness Magazine and blogs for Psychology Today. He is certified as a Sex Therapist by the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Sexology. His book Modern Sexuality is an Amazon bestseller in the category of human sexuality.

His website is www.drmichaelaaronnyc.com.