Sexuality and Individuals with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities

**Please note that attendance will be verified via Zoom. The number of CE credits earned will be based on length of time participant is logged in to Zoom. Attendance is verified via Zoom.**

Overview

Historically, the sexuality of individuals with IDD has been dismissed, neglected, and controlled. Though public perception has shifted to a somewhat more positive view, many underlying harmful beliefs remain. As a result, individuals with IDD often do not receive any sexual health education which can lead to severe consequences. This training will discuss the historical context that continues to influence the public perception of sexuality and IDD. Gaps in education and support, and the resulting consequences, will be explored. Models of disability will be discussed to help conceptualize the problem and identify possible solutions. Participants will discuss the tenets of comprehensive sexual education and explore various ways to individualize the content and teaching style to meet the needs of those with IDD. Finally, participants will explore how they can integrate the information and strategies into their work with clients.

Presenter

Maria Cowan, PsyD - Maria earned her Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology from the Wisconsin School of Professional Psychology. Maria has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of settings, though her passion is in community mental health. At Professional Services Group, she supervises doctoral students, provides individual therapy, and completes psychological evaluations. Maria’s therapeutic style is trauma-informed with a focus on attachment. She tends to use a humanistic and interpersonal approach to therapy, rooted in collaboration and empowerment. As a therapist, Maria strives to create a safe space for clients to explore and grow, where their unique identities and experiences are valued, respected, and celebrated.

Professional Services Group has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7066. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. Professional Services Group is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.

Professional Serivces Group, 6233 39th Ave, Kenosha, WI 53142.

262-654-1004, [email protected], www.psgcip.com

Host or Publisher Professional Services Group