Overview of Human Sexual Response and Taking a Sexual History Presenter: Rachel Needle, Psy.D. (4 CE Hours)

This workshop serves as an introduction and overview of human sexual response and taking a sexual history. This workshop will provide in depth understanding of the biopsychosocial model of assessment as it relates to sexuality including sexual function. Participants will learn how to take a comprehensive sexual history and understand all factors contributing to a client’s sexuality and functioning. Various models of sexual arousal and response will be taught.

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this workshop, participants will be able to:

• Describe the biopsychosocial model of assessment
• List six integral sexuality related questions to ask during conducting a sexual history
• Explain Masters and Johnson’s sexual response cycle
• Describe Rosemary Basson’s model of sexual response
• Explain the PLISSIT model
• Practice skills to take a comprehensive sexual history
• List 3 reasons therapists do not ask about sex
• Define sexual health
• List all of the DSM-5 male and female sexual dysfunctions, and explain the diagnostic criteria for each

Speaker Bio:

Dr. Needle received her M.S. and Psy.D. in clinical psychology from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She received her B.A. in psychology from Barnard College, Columbia University. Dr. Needle completed an internship in clinical psychology at University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Robert Wood Medical School in Piscataway, New Jersey.

Dr. Needle is a Licensed Psychologist and Certified Sex Therapist in private practice at the Center for Marital and Sexual Health of South Florida (www.cmshsf.com). She is also the founder and executive director of the Whole Health Psychological Center (www.wholehealthpsych.com) a comprehensive psychological practice with therapists with a broad range of specialty areas. She is the founder and CEO of the Advanced Mental Health Training Institute, which provides continuing education to Florida mental health professionals, as well as Psychologists and sex therapists across the world (www advancedmentalhealthtrainings.com). She has an ongoing blog and personal website (www.drrachel.com).

Dr. Needle is an Adjunct Professor of Psychology in the Department of Behavioral Sciences, in the Masters in Forensic Psychology, and in the Doctorate in Criminal Justice programs at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Dr. Needle’s clinical and research interests include sexual function and dysfunction, relationship concerns, sexual compulsivity, battered women, and trauma. She has a particular interest in working with individuals both during and following cancer treatment. Dr. Needle has presented her research and clinical work at national and international conferences. She has been quoted in a number of popular magazines such as Details, Glamour, Cosmopolitan, Cosmo Girl, and Shape, and has written several articles for Glamour Magazine’s online Blog: Smitten.