Sexuality and Substance Abuse

Description: Sex is keyed into our limbic systems, which controls our survival, our emotions, our reward system, and our memories. Our limbic system is vulnerable to the effects of substance use/abuse, since mind-altering substances such as cocaine, heroin, and hallucinogens first affect the reward system and then stores the pleasurable effects in memory, which leads to cravings and addiction. The intersection of sexuality and substance use occurs when we use drugs while having sex, which exponentially intensifies the pleasure of both; when we use drugs to a point where our ability to engage in sexual behavior is impaired; or when we use drugs to escape memories of traumatic sexual experiences. This workshop will explore and explain the many points of this intersection and describe interventions for developing healthy sexual feelings and behavior in recovery from addiction.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1190790

Learning Objectives:

1. Differentiate between the functions of the limbic system and the prefrontal cortex
2. Identify the effects of the major drugs of abuse on sexual functioning
3. Describe the effects of sexuality and substance use in the LGBTQ community.
4. Utilize strategies for teaching healthy sexuality to their recovering clients

Dr. Carol Clark is an educator and therapist, certified in Sex Therapy, EMDR, Addictions, and Transgender Care. She is the president of Therapy Certification Training, International Institute of Clinical Sexology, and president of the International Transgender Certification Association. Her books, Addict America: The Lost Connection and My Pocket Therapist: 12 Tools for Living in Connection, will help everyone to live in connection with themselves, others, and the universe.

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