Working with Sexual Disconnection, Desire Discrepancy, and Sexual Avoidance in Couples Therapy

working with sexual disconnection, desire discrepancy, and sexual avoidance in couples

Sexual disconnection and desire discrepancy are common in long term relationships and often carry shame, silence, and misunderstanding. Many clinicians feel underprepared to work confidently with sexual concerns or notice their own discomfort, assumptions, or limited language getting in the way. This training supports therapists to build confidence, expand their sexual vocabulary, and work with desire differences and avoidance in a grounded, respectful, and non pathologising way.

What you will learn

  • How desire discrepancy and sexual avoidance develop in long term relationships
  • Common patterns that maintain sexual disconnection
  • How values, stress, identity, and relationship dynamics impact desire
  • How to increase your comfort and language when talking about sex
  • How personal beliefs and judgements can shape clinical work
  • Key concepts from Emily Nagoski including accelerators and brakes and how to work with them clinically
  • How to support couples to talk about sex without pressure or blame

What is included

  • Case examples and clinical scenarios
  • Practical language and conversation prompts for sessions
  • Exercises to use with couples around desire, safety, and connection
  • Reflective activities to support therapist self development

Who is it for

Especially helpful for clinicians working with couples experiencing mismatched desire, sexual avoidance, loss of intimacy, or ongoing tension around sex.

Level of experience

Suitable for early career and experienced clinicians. Previous training in couples therapy is highly recommended.

This training is not a certification program or a replacement for supervision. It focuses on core clinical understanding and practical tools rather than advanced modality specific training.

Length

3 hours

Tags

Webinar
  • Date : 18 April 2026
  • Time : 9:30 am - 12:30 pm (Australia/Melbourne)
  • Venue : Online

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