In this training featuring multiple instructors, participants will expand their couples therapy skills by taking a deep dive into differentiation work.
Join us via Zoom to view this training. Participants must register for class by 5pm the day before. In order to receive CE credits, you must complete the evaluation form that will be sent to you.
Participants who are enrolled in South Shore Sexual Health Center’s Sex Therapy Training Program should email info@ssshealthcenter.com to register for this course.
Training schedule (All listed times are Eastern Standard Time):
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Transforming Couples Relationships using Differentiation
Presented by: Paola Andrea Rodriguez, LMHC, CST
Differentiation creates a foundation for growth. Many couples get stuck in enmeshment, leading to avoidance, resentment, and sexless relationships. In this course, participants will learn to conceptualize differentiation and gain the tools to help clients balance emotional closeness with individual autonomy. Participants will also learn interventions to support differentiation across various relationship dynamics.
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM: 15 minute break
10:45 AM - 12:15 PM: Latino Couples in Therapy: Culturally Competent Differentiation
Presented by: Paola Andrea Rodriguez, LMHC, CST
Cultural competence is essential for effectively working with and supporting our clients. In this course, participants will explore the unique cultural dynamics that influence relationships and sexuality. Participants will comprehensively explore enmeshment patterns and the influence of gender roles in promoting enmeshment within Latino culture. This course will provide insights on how to apply culturally sensitive skills to work effectively with Latino couples.
12:15 PM - 12:45 PM: Lunch
12:45 PM - 2:15 PM: Differentiation and Disability
Presented by: Marissa Dungan, LICSW
In this session, participants will explore applications of differentiation work within couples impacted by disability and/or chronic illness. Relational dynamics around caregiving and impact on sexuality will be a crucial aspect of this discussion.
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM: 15 minute break
2:30 PM - 4:00 PM: Balancing Identification and Differentiation with the Person of the Therapist Training (POTT) Model
Presented by: Alba Niño, Ph.D., LMFT, Associate Professor, Couple and Family Therapy Programs, Alliant International University
In this presentation, we will discuss balancing identification and empathy with differentiation and maintaining a working distance in our clinical work. We will explore how the philosophy and practice of The Person of the Therapist Training can help clinicians connect with their clients on a human level while differentiating in a way that allows therapists to make informed clinical decisions. Additionally, we will examine how our own struggles can become assets in our clinical work and how self-attunement can help us better attune to our clients.
This 6 CE credit course meets the criteria for the following Sex Therapy Training Content Areas:
2 CE credits in Criteria Letter A (Theory and methods of sex-related psychotherapy, including several different models)
2 CE credits in Criteria Letter C (Theory and methods of approach to intervention in relationship systems experiencing sex and intimacy problems)
2 CE credits in Criteria Letter F (Ethical decision-making and best practice)
This program meets the requirements for the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) and is approved for 6 total CE credits. These CE credits may be applied toward AASECT Certification and renewal of certification. South Shore Sexual Health Center, LLC, Provider #15-784-S. Completion of this program does not ensure or guarantee AASECT Certification. For further information please contact ce@aasect.org.