Counseling Commons^™

Too Taboo?: Preliminary Explorations Of Counselor Experiences Of Client Sexuality, Molly R. Wilson

Journal of Counseling Sexology & Sexual Wellness: Research, Practice, and Education

For many years, researchers and clinicians have discussed the weakness in the counseling profession surrounding education and training specific to sexuality. Previous research has largely focused on quantitative approaches to explore why client sexuality is a source of discomfort for counselors. This study sought to explore the qualitative experience of two counselors to begin filling in the gaps left by similar quantitative research. Through narrative interviews, themes related to avoidance of and motivators for discussing sexuality with clients were identified. Results from this research can help influence counselors in practice, counselor educators and future areas of sexuality counseling research.