Counseling Commons^™

Psychosocial Effects Of Infertility, Elizabeth Kulikov

Showcase of Osprey Advancements in Research and Scholarship (SOARS)

Infertility, or the inability to conceive a child, is a symbolic loss that affects up to 20% of couples in the United States. A symbolic loss is a loss due to something other than death. Infertility has been described as a disenfranchised and anticipatory loss that can lead to complicated grief reactions. Disenfranchised losses are those wherein the grief often goes unrecognized, unacknowledged and misunderstood. Despite its prevalence and the severity of the grief and loss associated with infertility, academic literature examining the psychosocial effects of infertility is scarce. The purpose of this project was to investigate the existing literature …

Fall 2020 Full Issue, Journal Of Counseling Sexology & Sexual Wellness: Research Education, And Practice Jcssw

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

No abstract provided.

Implications For Supervisors And Counselor Educators In Human Sexuality, Reka K. Farago Dr.

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

This article reports a phenomenological analysis of 13 counselor educators about their supervision experiences with sexuality counseling topics. The eight resulting themes were managing conflicting emotions, creating conditions, values, advocacy, student focus, language, multicultural competency, and student autonomy. Findings suggested the importance of supervisors working with process rather than sexual content when supervising Counselors in Training (CITs) for sexual health topics they encountered during counseling training. Participant experiences and tools were discussed, such as allowing CITs personal processing, and teaching contextual understanding. Implications for supervision and future research shared.

Mental Health Workers’ Perceptions Of Risk Factors For Human Trafficking In Nairobi, Kenya: A Preliminary Qualitative Investigation, Stacey Diane A. Litam, Dakota King-White, Kathryn C. Maccluskie, Julia C. Phillips

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

The researchers of this pilot study conducted three in-depth semi-structured interviews with four mental health workers in Nairobi to obtain a deeper understanding of their perceptions of human trafficking in Kenya. Four themes that increased vulnerability for entrance into the human trafficking trade were identified. Individuals were at increased risk for forced labor exploitation due to socioeconomic factors, traditional African practices, cultural beliefs, and political risk factors. This article provides implications for practice and support for community mental health workers, counselors, and educators working with survivors of human trafficking. Implications for future research and practice are discussed.

The Influence Of Cyber-Sexual Assault On The Mental Health Outcomes Of Survivors, Kelley R. Holladay, W. Bryce Hagedorn, David Boote

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

Researchers examined data collected from the only national sample of cyber-sexual assault (CBSA) survivors (N = 97; 3.75\% response rate to the online survey) using three valid instruments that measure symptomology of sexual assault. We found that participants scored high across each of the inventories, indicating CBSA survivors respond in ways that are similar to sexual assault survivors concerning emotional dysregulation, depression, and post-traumatic stress symptomology, particularly if they had a history of sexual assault. Implications for counselors are reviewed, and clinical recommendations are offered.

“No One Can Make That Choice For You”: Exploring Power In The Sexual Narratives Of Black Collegians, Candice Hargons, Della Mosley, Carolyn Meiller, Jardin Dogan, Jennifer Stuck, Chesmore Montique, Natalie Malone, Carrie Bohmer, Queen-Ayanna Sullivan, Anyoliny Sanchez, Joseph Oluokun, Danelle Stevens-Watkins

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

Power is enacted to oppress others, pursue wellness, or resist oppression. For Black people, societal and relational oppression influences racialized and gendered expressions of power within sexual encounters. The current study analyzed power dynamics within Black university students’ first and most recent sexual encounters. Using narrative inquiry within a critical paradigm, five narrative strategies were identified within participants’ interviews: 1) Offering a Peek into Powerlessness, 2) Detailing Disempowerment, 3) Privileging Stereotypical Power, 4) Reclaiming Power, and 5) Emphasizing Empowered Sex. Racialized, gendered sexual socialization among Black students is discussed. Counseling considerations to increase sexual wellness for Black people are explored.

Counselors-In-Training Reactions To Clients Living With And Without Hiv, Melissa Zeligman, J. Richelle Joe

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

An estimated one million people are currently living with HIV in the United States. Therefore, an important question remains pertaining to professional helpers’ preparedness in working with people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). This study (N = 165) utilized an analogue design, with participants receiving one of four possible clinical case vignettes, to determine the relationship of client HIV status and race with counselor-in-training self-efficacy, multicultural competency, and empathy. Results revealed that client HIV status was predictive of counselor self-efficacy, and that self-efficacy held relationships with multicultural counseling competency and empathy. Findings suggest multicultural skills training may be particularly important to …

Fall 2020 Table Of Contents, Journal Of Counseling Sexology & Sexual Wellness: Research Education, And Practice Jcssw

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

No abstract provided.

Development Of The Comfort With Sexual Behaviors Scale, Molli E. Mercer, Shannon B. Dermer

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

The purpose of this study was to develop a valid, reliable scale to assess people’s comfort with sexual behaviors. The Comfort with Sexual Behaviors Scale (CSBS) was developed through multiple administrations. One factor, general comfort talking about sexual behaviors, accounted for 65% of the variance. The 30-item CSBS was a valid and reliable measure of comfort with discussion sexual behaviors.

Developing Lbgtgeqiap+ Allies For Action: A Developmental Counselor Training Model, Anita A. Neuer Colburn, Amy W. Upton Phd

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

The authors present a model for helping students and supervisees to move beyond competence and toward action-based advocacy utilizing the MSJCC (AMCD, 2015) and extant literature in counselor and ally development. Four developmental stages are posited based on the MSJCC domains, and various strategies for teaching competencies at each level are provided.

Sexuality Beyond Young Adulthood: Affordances And Barriers To Sexual Expression In The Nursing Home, Angela Schubert, Mark Pope

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

Human sexuality is part of life, regardless of age or where someone resides. Previous research on older adult sexual expression in nursing homes has primarily focused on staff perceptions – almost all of which was conducted using quantitative methods. This phenomenological study aimed to explore sexual expression as it was perceived, experienced, and practiced by ten older adults, ages 65 and older, residing in a nursing facility. This paper will explore themes associated with the self-perception of affordances and barriers to engage in sexual expression, and how we as mental health counselors may best serve the needs of older adults …

The Impact Of Relationship Wellness Checkups With Gay Male Couples, Mary Minten, Cass Dykeman

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

Relationship health impacts many other health outcomes, including physical and mental wellbeing and the health of children in the family system (Goeke-Morey, Cummings, & Papp, 2007; Jaremka, Glaser, Malarkey, & Kiecolt-Glaser, 2013; Jaremka, Lindgren, & Kiecolt-Glaser, 2013; Pihet, Bodenmann, Cina, Widmer, & Shantinath, 2007; Rappaport, 2013; Robles, Slatcher, Trombello, & McGinn, 2014). Despite the importance of relationship health, couples do not regularly seek support for maintaining their connection (Eubanks-Fleming & Cordova, 2012). Early intervention programs that provide support are a growing public health initiative (Cowan & Cowan, 2014). One brief early intervention program, the Marriage Checkup (MC), positively impacts …

Negotiating Sexual Values In Counselor Education: A Qualitative Case Exploration, Megan Speciale

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

The purpose of this qualitative case study was to examine the ways in which counselor educators acknowledge and negotiate their personal sexological worldviews in the teaching of sexuality counseling classes. Analysis of interview material, data mining, and member theorization of six participants (n=6) yielded four overarching themes: 1) centering self-awareness, 2) managing ethical bracketing, 3) affirming sexual diversity, and 4) teaching as a conduit for personal growth. Implications for educators and future recommendations for research are explored.

Counselors’ Knowledge About Hiv Transmission And Prevention, Joseph Campbell, Zachary Pietrantoni, Audrey Miller

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

This article presents the results of an online survey study of 80 counselors to explore counselors’ knowledge about Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) transmission, HIV prevention strategies, potentially related factors, and where counselors obtained their knowledge. Results show that approximately 90% of counselors correctly identified knowledge about HIV transmission, 68% correctly identified knowledge about HIV prevention strategies, and 64% reported receiving no education regarding HIV/AIDS in their graduate counseling programs. Implications for counselor training and professional development are discussed.

Triad In The Therapy Room - The Interpreter, The Therapist, And The Deaf Person, Miriam Levinger

Journal of Interpretation

The Deaf Community is increasingly aware of the possibility of receiving professional help in coping with normative developmental tasks as well as with more complex emotional and mental difficulties. This is partly thanks to the development of services that are accessible to this population and the introduction of sign language interpreters into the therapy room for deaf people who know sign language. Although the introduction of interpreters has greatly enhanced communication between the therapist and the recipient of therapeutic services, all three participants must contend with the unique dynamics of the triad thus formed. Using various models, including Bowen’s model …

Exploring The Relationship Between Diversity Training And Counselor Competence In Working With Cisgender Men Wearing Makeup, Brandi Velasquez Nash

UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations

The concepts of gender and sexuality within counselor diversity training continue to expand and change over time; therefore, it is essential that mental health professionals are knowledgeable of the challenges faced by gender nonconforming (GNC) individuals, specifically cisgender men who wear makeup. This includes being aware of the biases and stigmas that GNC individuals face and understanding how those barriers affect their mental health.

Elements that are applicable to this population include: (a) the historical significance and implications of cisgender men who wear makeup, (b) social media platforms where cisgender men showcase their makeup skills, (c) cultural experiences of GNC …

Using Surrogate Partner Therapy In Counseling: Treatment Considerations, Kelly Emelianchik-Key, Kimberleigh Stickney

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

When working with clients on issues of sexuality, clinicians often avoid the treatment approach of surrogate partner therapy due to lack of information and understanding. Surrogate partner therapy is a grey area within legal and ethical boundaries of various mental health professional associations. This article offers an intensive exploration of surrogate partner therapy, including its history, ethical considerations, benefits, and challenges. Best practices and treatment considerations when working with a surrogate partner therapist are discussed. Although there is a lack of research and evidence-based practice information, the available literature demonstrates that surrogate partner therapy is an effective intervention that can …

Sexual Wellness And Rare Disease Considerations: A Behavioral Case Conceptualization And Approach To Counseling Treatment, Jessica Z. Taylor, Chrystal L. Lewis, Leslie E. Davis

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

Sexual wellness is infrequently addressed with individuals with a rare disease. Counselors must be competent in working with sexual wellness issues, especially those related to medical conditions, since clients may not share those concerns with healthcare providers. This article presents a case scenario involving a client living with a rare disease called Hereditary Angioedema, the symptoms of which present challenges to her intimate and sexual relationship with her partner due to unpredictable and painful swelling. A behavioral theoretical lens is used to conceptualize the case scenario and inform treatment. Implications for counselor competency, interdisciplinary collaboration, and client empowerment toward advocacy …

Clinical Implications In Vaginal Orgasm Response, Lindsey M. Brown Mccormick, Sherry Todd, Laura Schmuldt, Kathryn Russ, Cristen Wathen

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

Previous research has shown that counselors feel uncomfortable addressing clients’ sexual concerns due to a lack of education on topics related to human sexuality. Various studies have attempted to identify the characteristics of vaginal orgasm, including whether women and other people with vaginas (PWV) can achieve different kinds of orgasms. The current study examines responses to participants surveyed across the United States on their orgasm response and compares responses of participants who achieved orgasm through masturbation and those who achieved orgasm through sex with a partner to determine whether PWV experience one kind of orgasm during masturbation and experience a …

The Use Of Technology In Sexual Exploration Among A Rape Culture Youth, Kelley R. Holladay, W. Bryce Hagedorn

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

The present investigation sought to address the gap of research surrounding rape myth acceptance attitudes and cyber-sexual assault (CBSA). Researchers examined data collected from a college sample of 94 undergraduate psychology students. The purpose of this investigation was to explore whether this sample of college students reported any potential stereotypes pertaining to cyber-sexual assault victims and whether the college students utilized technology for sexual exploration (e.g., creation, distribution, and receiving of sexually explicit material). In addition to identifying cyber-sexual victims, this study explored the correlation of gender with those responses. Results are reported, and suggestions for counselors are offered. The …

Full Issue, Journal Of Counseling Sexology & Sexual Wellness Jcssw

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

No abstract provided.

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.

Lgbtq* Responsive Sand Tray: Creative Arts And Counseling, Melissa Luke, Harvey C. Peters

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

This article builds upon a heuristic framework for sand tray in supervision, multicultural focus areas, and the supervisory roles of teacher, consultant, and counselor to propose a framework for LGBTQ* responsive sand tray. This proposed framework provides supervisors with a creative arts-based structure to assist both counselors-in-training and practitioner supervisees in working with LGBTQ* persons, in a way that is culturally responsive and affirmative of their LGBTQ* identity. This article provides a group supervision case example and discussion to highlight to enactment and process of utilizing the proposed creative-arts framework.

A Population At Risk: Counseling Sexual Minorities With A Serious Mental Illness, Anthony Zazzarino, Corinne W. Bridges

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

Sexual minorities are at a greater risk for experiencing a serious mental illness (SMI) compared to heterosexuals, and sexual minorities suffering from a SMI experience stigma and discrimination that leads to a greater need for counseling services. Current research does not address the needs of sexual minorities with a SMI and how to prepare counselors to work with this population, as most sexual minorities with a SMI find that counseling services do not meet their unique needs. The purpose of this transcendental phenomenological study, grounded in a Husserlian philosophical and minority stress model conceptual framework, was to explore the experiences …

Counseling The Kink Community: What Clinicians Need To Know, Stephanie M. Yates, Anita A. Neuer-Colburn

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

Recent media portrayals of Kink are prevalent, but not always culturally accurate and can perpetuate a stigma that impacts the therapeutic environment when working with Kink-oriented individuals. Misunderstanding the culture can increase prejudice, misdiagnosis, and maltreatment of Kink-oriented clients. The authors provide readers with an introductory primer on language used within the Kink culture, avoiding the pathology of cultural and personal preferences, and myths associated with Kink community practices. Implications for best practices are offered.

Letter From The Editors, Robert J. Zeglin, Jason Patton

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

This issue is the inaugural issue of the Journal of Counseling Sexology & Sexual Wellness: Research, Practice, and Education (JCSSW), the official journal of the Association of Counseling Sexology & Sexual Wellness. We are very excited about this new resource in the counseling field that is dedicated to advancing the research related to human sexuality and sexual wellness, especially as it concerns the work of counselors and other helping professionals. This letter from the editors is designed to welcome readers to the journal, share a bit of the history of the journal, and to thank the many people and …

Spring 2019 Table Of Contents, Journal Of Counseling Sexology & Sexual Wellness Jcssw

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

No abstract provided.

Opioid Use Disorder: The Ugly Return And Treatment Effectiveness Of Heroin Use, Antwana L. Drayton

UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Relationships among demographic, socioeconomic and person factors and Opioid Use Disorder diagnosis, treatment, and recidivism were explored. Data from a sample of 4,860 adults with substance use difficulties were analyzed. A program evaluation was conducted on Gateway Community Services to explore the use of Medication Assisted Treatments (MATs) and Psychosocial (PS) treatments to address Opioid Use Disorder. Using archival data, a chi-square analysis and independent sample t-test was performed. The results expressed that a relationship among race, type of substance use diagnosis, and treatment type and recidivism rate was found. While White/Non-Hispanics adults were more likely to use heroin than …

Unheard Voices: Black Adolescents' Perceptions Of Mental Health In Urban Communities, Brian James Ludden

UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Mental health in the United States is a rising concern. More concerning still is the growing number of children and adolescents with serious depression and other mental health disorders (SAMHSA, 2009; Merikangas et al., 2010). Despite a growing list of proven and best-practice prevention and intervention initiatives that have been made available to children and adolescents, 80 percent of children and adolescents with a diagnosable mental health disorder will not receive services for their associated mental health concerns (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 1999; Cummings 2014). Children and adolescents with mental health disorders are faced with an ever-increasing …

Jealousy: Its Emotional Components And Its Relationship To Situational Versus General Needs., Yola Harrison

UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Male and female emotional reactions to jealousy arousing situations were investigated. These reactions were studied with relation to subjects ' general and relationship needs. Subjects ' expressed emotions, their general needs, and their relationship needs were measured. The results indicated that: 1) Females express stronger emotions in a jealousy situation, however, the range of expressed emotions for both males and females is similar. 2) Although relationship needs correlated more strongly, than did the general needs, with the expressed emotions, R* values were not high enough to permit understanding or prediction of these emotions through relationship needs.