What is Encircling Sexuality?
Encircling Sexuality is an 8 session psycho-educational curriculum on how trauma affects female sexuality. It is based on the Advocates for Youth, Circles of Sexuality, with the inclusion of the Intentionality Circle developed by the author. The first version of this curriculum, Demystifying Sexuality and the Impact of Trauma, was developed in 2009. The author/facilitator used the curriculum with paying individual clients as well as facilitated it pro-bono on the group level in recovery houses and drop-in centers.
A published summary of this curriculum can be found in the Summer 2012 issue of the International Psychology Bulletin (an APA publication) under the authorship of Latisha Ferrara. It was also presented during an International Women's Day Conference in NY in March 2012. Lastly, the author presented at the 2013 Widener University's Careers in Sexuality Conference. In 2019, an international student intern, originally from Iceland, who attended Widener University's Human Sexuality program (Educational Track) updated the curriculum with the latest research in heterosexuality.
Each session is arranged in a systematic format to create brave spaces for women to share. The components of each session include: Developing Ground Rules, Meditation Moments, Jumping Off Points, and Reflections, to name a few. The first and last sessions include pre and post tests as well as introductions and a presentation of Certificates of Completion.
Encircling Sexuality is an 8 session psycho-educational curriculum on how trauma affects female sexuality. It is based on the Advocates for Youth, Circles of Sexuality, with the inclusion of the Intentionality Circle developed by the author. The first version of this curriculum, Demystifying Sexuality and the Impact of Trauma, was developed in 2009. The author/facilitator used the curriculum with paying individual clients as well as facilitated it pro-bono on the group level in recovery houses and drop-in centers.
A published summary of this curriculum can be found in the Summer 2012 issue of the International Psychology Bulletin (an APA publication) under the authorship of Latisha Ferrara. It was also presented during an International Women's Day Conference in NY in March 2012. Lastly, the author presented at the 2013 Widener University's Careers in Sexuality Conference. In 2019, an international student intern, originally from Iceland, who attended Widener University's Human Sexuality program (Educational Track) updated the curriculum with the latest research in heterosexuality.
Each session is arranged in a systematic format to create brave spaces for women to share. The components of each session include: Developing Ground Rules, Meditation Moments, Jumping Off Points, and Reflections, to name a few. The first and last sessions include pre and post tests as well as introductions and a presentation of Certificates of Completion.
Who is the target population?
The target population is adult women over the age of 18 who have experienced sexual trauma or who want to learn more about sexuality. For sexual trauma thrivers, this curriculum is developed to be an educational tool used in conjunction with psychotherapy. It is strongly recommended for women to have previous therapeutic experiences before participating as an individual or in a closed group.
The target population is adult women over the age of 18 who have experienced sexual trauma or who want to learn more about sexuality. For sexual trauma thrivers, this curriculum is developed to be an educational tool used in conjunction with psychotherapy. It is strongly recommended for women to have previous therapeutic experiences before participating as an individual or in a closed group.
How does group level interventions work?
For group level interventions, no less than 5 and no more than 10 participants are included. Once a group begins, no new participants will be added. All group level interventions are closed and weekly participation is expected for the 8-week duration. Schools/universities, places of worships, women's groups and community-based organizations are welcomed to schedule an 8-week cycle.
For group level interventions, no less than 5 and no more than 10 participants are included. Once a group begins, no new participants will be added. All group level interventions are closed and weekly participation is expected for the 8-week duration. Schools/universities, places of worships, women's groups and community-based organizations are welcomed to schedule an 8-week cycle.
Can couples receive this service?
The Encircling Sexuality curriculum can also be modified for engaged and married couples. Each couple's experiences are unique. Participating in Encircling Sexuality will help couples gain a deeper awareness of the multidimensional aspects of sexuality and enhance the sexual intimacy within the relationship.
The Encircling Sexuality curriculum can also be modified for engaged and married couples. Each couple's experiences are unique. Participating in Encircling Sexuality will help couples gain a deeper awareness of the multidimensional aspects of sexuality and enhance the sexual intimacy within the relationship.