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The Highs and Lows of Sensory Processing and Sexuality: What OTs need to consider
It's no surprise that as sexual beings we all have our own sexual preferences. Our likes, wants, and needs are unique to each of us and shape our sexual and intimate experiences. But what about our dislikes? Or aversions to certain stimuli? What if the enjoyment and pleasure of sex can quickly turn to pain and kill the mood. For some of us, this might be when our partner lightly touches our skin or grasps too firmly. What is this experience like and how can OT play a role in this??? Many of the clients I have work have sensory preferences and high/low thresholds, and this can be even more so for people with autism or sensory regulation difficulties.
A great research article discussing sensory features and sexuality was recently shared with me by one of the authors, Anne Kirby, so naturally I was excited about it and wanted to share it here with you!
Autistic Narratives of Sensory Features, Sexuality, and Relationships (full article linked here)
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Author
Kathryn Ellis (she/her)
Hi! I'm an Occupational Therapist, ASSECT Certified Sexuality Counselor, and pleasure enthusiast! Here to write about all things sexuality + OT related. If you're an OT looking to learn more poke around the website. If you think you'd like to work with me for sexuality counseling, check out www.drkathrynellis.com to learn more!
FREE CEU: This is How We Do It: Sexuality & Occupational Therapy
Approved Provider for .01 CEU/1 Contact Hour.
Recorded Course: OT and LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Practice
Approved Provider for .02 CEU/2 Contact Hour. 10% of sales from this course is gifted to The Network for LGBTQIA+ Concerns in Occupational Therapy to cover operational costs and scholarship funds.
