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COUN 640 - HUMAN SEXUALITY
Fall, 2013 – Credit Hours 3 - (2-2-2 Format)
Master of Arts in Counseling
Department of Behavioral Sciences
Cincinnati Christian University
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Instructor: Marlene Estenson, Ed.D., PCC-S
Email: marlene.estenson@ccuniversity.edu
Office Phone: 513-244-8337
Cell #: (Given on first day of class)
Office Hours: By Appointment in the Counseling Center
Course Description
This course is an exploration of human sexuality development and transitions across the life span of
an individual within the context of cultural diversity and life style differences. Utilizing current
research, the assessment and treatment strategies for specific sexual disorders, identified in the
latest edition of the DSM, will be covered. Personal self-awareness of values will be emphasized as
students examine various topics. Ethical and legal considerations will be presented.
Course Rationale
CACREP- The course material in this elective class is designed to align with the Council on
Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs, curriculum standards for training
master level students: CACREP Section II. G.1j; G.2e; G.3a; G.3f; G.5b;
CMHC – A.2; C.8; D.3; E.2; E.3; G.3; K.1
Ohio - This elective course is in alignment with the Ohio Administrative Code requirements for training
counselors, specifically, 4757-13-01 (A-4-e & f, A-5-c, d-ii and iii, as well as A-5-e).
Indiana - Educational materials for this elective course are aligned with Indiana Administrative
Code 839 IAC 1-5-1 Sec.1(a)(6), as well as Indiana Code IC for eligibility for the LMHC credential: IC
25-23.6-8.5-3(1A, B, C, F, G, H, I, & K).
Kentucky – Materials in this elective class align with the Kentucky Laws & Regulations for eligibility
for becoming a professional counselor associate and later a professional clinical counselor,
specifically, 335.525 (1) (d) 1, 2, 6, 7, 8, & 9.
COURSE OBJECTIVES
1. Describe the stages of healthy human sexual development across the lifespan from a prevention
and wellness perspective, as well as recognizing pathology, trauma symptoms, and potential
medication interactions: CACREP II.G.3.a, f; CMHC D.3; CMHC G.3; MAC 2.b.
2. Assess, diagnose, and develop a treatment plan utilizing evidence based methods for sexual
disorders found in the latest version of the DSM and select appropriate intervention techniques
in response to the client’s needs, while considering cultural and environmental factors leading
to bias and institutional oppression: CACREP II.G.2.e; CMHC C.8; CMHC E.2; CMHC K.1; MAC 2.b.
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3. Gain awareness of one’s own sexual development and values, as it relates to the role of a
professional counselor, in ethically and legally treating a diverse population of individuals with
various lifestyles: CACREP II.G.1.j; CACREP II.G.5.b; CMHC A.2; MAC 1.
4. Identify professional organizations and competency standards for various populations and
ethically refer individuals to appropriate resources for treatment when outside of their training:
CACREP II.G.1.j; CACREP II.G.2.e; CMHC E.3; MAC 2.b.
Method of Instruction
As graduate counseling students it is expected that you will demonstrate both responsibility and
motivation consistent with that of a self-learner and maintain a professional attitude. This class will be
taught using a seminar style that encourages collaborative presentations and active participation of
each member. Learning will be facilitated via discussion of readings, application to cases, role-plays,
videos, and written assignments. Guest speakers may present some of the course material.
REQUIRED MATERIALS
Moodle and Email
All students enrolled in this course are required to check Moodle and their email weekly for the
duration of the course. Course announcements, changes to the syllabus, and memos from the
instructor will be distributed via Moodle and/or email. Students are responsible for all information
distributed in this manner.
Required Texts
Adams, T. (2011). Narrating the closet: An autoethnography of same-sex attraction. Walnut Creek, CA:
Left Coast Press.
Heitritter, L., & Vought, J. (2006). Helping victims of sexual abuse: A sensitive biblical guide for counselors,
victims, and families. Bloomington, MN: Bethany House.
Levine, S. B., Risen, C. B., & Althof, S. E. (Eds.). (2010). Handbook of clinical sexuality for mental health
professionals (2nd ed.). New York, NY: Taylor & Francis.
Please Note: The text material is selected to meet the Ethical Standards of the American Counseling
Association (ACA) and the ethical policies of the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage
& Family Therapist Board and may not reflect the value system of the instructor or always be in
agreement with the spiritual beliefs of CCU. Students are encouraged to integrate their own spiritual
beliefs with professional standards as the course material is explored through a Christian perspective.
Students will be asked to sign a contract of understanding on the first day of class.
Recommended Text
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders
(5th ed.). Arlington, VA; Author.
(During this year of transition from the DSM IV to the DSM – 5, differences in diagnostic criteria for
categorization will be discussed.)
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Grading/Evaluation
In accordance with rule 4757-3-01(J)(1) from the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage
& Family Therapist Board, you must receive a B- (83%) or higher in this course for it to count
toward your MAC degree or licensure.
Assignments
Points/Percentages
1. Chapter Questions
(30% of grade)
Read the Handbook of Clinical Sexuality for Mental Health Professionals (2nd ed.). As this is a 2-2-2
course, students will need to begin responding to the questions in a timely manner in order to cover
the 480 pages and write their responses to the questions. Specific questions to respond to will be
emailed early in the semester so students can begin the assignment. Please limit responses to no
more than 300 words for each chapter. No minimum word amount is required, but appropriate effort
in reading and reflection should be evident. Responses should be typed with double spacing. APA
style is not required for responses to the questions.
Due: Questions for Chapters 1 thru 8, 13, and 17 (September 26, 2013 at 10 am)
Questions for Chapters 14, 18, 19 thru 21, 24+25 (October 24, 2013 at 10 am)
Questions for Chapters 9 thru 12, 15+16, 22+23 (November 21, 2013 at 10 am)
Course Objective(s): 1,2,3,4
2. Book Report
(10% of grade)
Read Helping Victims of Sexual Abuse and write a 3-5 page book report. A brief summary should be
included. However, the focus should be on what the student learned, agreed or disagreed with,
emotional reaction to the book, and how the material can be utilized with clients. (APA writing style
required).
Due Date: September 26, 2013 by 10 am
Course Objective(s): 1, 2, 3, 4
3. Research/Integration Paper
(25% of grade)
A 10 page research paper on counseling LGBTQIQ individuals is required. Professional competency
standards and specific issues that individuals may face in terms of bias and oppression should be
discussed from a systems perspective. Material from reading the Adams book Narrating the Closet
should be included. Resources from class such as discussion, film presentation, and material from the
guest speaker may be utilized. A portion of the paper should address the student’s self-awareness;
showing an integration of understanding of LGBTQ issues, personal values, spiritual issues,
environmental factors and the professional role of a counselor. At least 2 additional professional
journal references should be included, as well as referencing the appropriate ACA ethical guidelines for
treatment. APA style of writing should be utilized. A rubric will be given on the first day of class.
Due date: December 3, 2013
Course Objective(s): 1, 2, 3, 4,
4. Class Presentation
(10% of grade)
Topics will be assigned on the first day of class from the latest version of the DSM addressing specific
sexual dysfunctions. Presentations will be made at the December class sessions.
Presentations should be original/creative and not consist of only lecture/power point. Be sure to
include:
- overview of the topic from the text and the DSM
- potential referral sources
-symptoms criteria and differential diagnostic issues
- treatment options
- bibliography for all members of the class
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Note: All films, tapes, speakers, and/or materials to be used must be approved by the Instructor one
week prior to the presentation. A rubric will be given out in class on the first day.
Due date: November 21, 2013
Course Objective(s): 1, 2, 3, 4
5. Video Assessment Reports
(10% of grade)
A total of 2 films (approximately one hour each) should be selected from the AACC Human Sexuality
Films, on reserve in the library. A worksheet should be completed and submitted with a detailed set of
notes attached. Keep a copy for your own records.
Due Date: December 3, 2013
Course Objective(s): 1, 2, 3, 4
6. Final Exam
(15% of grade)
The final will be a take home final consisting of two parts. Part 1 consists of matching specific
diagnostic criteria to the accurate diagnosis. Part 2 of the exam will consist of a case study that the
students will assess, diagnose, and develop a treatment plan for. A rubric for part 2 of the exam will be
given out in class.
Due Date: December 3, 2013
Course Objective(s): 1, 2, 3, 4
Important Notes
Attendance and Participation
Attendance of all 6 days of the 2/2/2 class is expected. Tardiness will be accumulated as an absence.
Emergency situations will be individually dealt with, and documentation may be required. All work
must be made up by the student by the next class period.
Late Assignments
The quality of all assignments should be that of a graduate level. Any work that does not meet
those standards will have points taken off, and the student will be expected to resubmit the work.
Late assignments will be accepted, but there will be a 5% penalty for the assignment per day. This
policy will be enforced to encourage students to make their education a priority.
Christian Component
Throughout this course students will be encouraged to evaluate the material presented from a
Christian perspective. All readings, assignments, discussions and lectures will be examined from a
Biblical viewpoint as we strive to integrate professional counseling resources.
Student Conduct
Students may use laptops for note taking purposes only. Students may not use laptops for
conducting research, entertainment, web browsing, online conversations, watching movies,
emailing or any other activity that distracts. Violations of this policy will result in laptops being
prohibited. All cell phones and pagers should be set to silent. Students are permitted to record
lectures for their own purposes. Audio or video copies of lecture material are not to be distributed
to non-class members without the written permission of the instructor.
Accommodations
Students who require academic accommodations due to any documented physical, psychological, or
learning disability should request assistance from the Academic Support Director, Marie Reeves,
within the first two weeks of class. The Academic Support Office is located in the lower level of the
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Worship and Ministry Building (room 153). You may also contact the office by phone (244-8420).
Please inform the Instructor of any needs you may have to ensure a timely and satisfactory
response.
Academic Dishonesty
Cheating or turning in work that is not your own will result in a 0 grade for the assignment. The
MAC staff may take additional action. Please, see the MAC Program Handbook for further
information on policies regarding plagiarism. Students should not turn in assignments from
previous classes to meet current requirements.
Ethical Requirements
All students are expected to follow the ACA Code of Ethics, AACC Code of Ethics and the State of
Ohio rules and regulations, as provided by the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, Marriage and Family
Therapist Board. See the MAC Program Handbook for additional information. Under no
circumstances should identifying information about clients ever be used in class. All case studies
should refer to general client type situations and avoid specific identifying information.
Personal Consideration
This class covers instructional material that some will find challenging. Alternative perspectives can
lead to reflection that may result in personal and professional growth. If you become distressed about
any material/discussions, please talk with the instructor and/or make an appointment to see a
counselor. You are responsible for not divulging any personal information that you would not want
shared. At the same time you are encouraged to take appropriate risks that could lead to insight and
growth. Information shared by other students or guest speakers should be respected and not shared
outside of class. Please keep in mind that some of the readings and speakers may challenge your
personal belief system.
Flexibility Clause
This syllabus is NOT a binding contract. The Instructor reserves the right to amend any part of this
course syllabus, as deemed necessary, to offer the best possible educational experience for
students. All modifications to the syllabus will be announced in class, on Moodle and/or by email.
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Date/Schedule
Session I
Day 1
9/26/13
Morning
10 am -12:30
Lunch (12:301:30)
Afternoon
1:30-5
COURSE SCHEDULE
2-2-2 Format
Topics
Introductions (syllabus & contracts)
Personal scripts and differences
Sexuality defined
Historical and cross-cultural perspectives
Research issues
Professional organizations
Anatomy knowledge
Sexual development across the life span
Wellness and prevention
Identifying pathology
Body Image issues
Presentation sign up
Discussion of text questions
Assignment/Readings
Due
Chapters 1 thru 8,
13, and 17
Book Report on
Helping Victims of
Sexual Abuse
Course Objective(s): 1, 2, 3, 4
Session I
Day 2
9/27/13
Morning
9 am -12:00
Lunch (12:001:00)
Afternoon
1:00-5
Sexual Trauma – System perspective on
individual, family, and community
Working with children,
adolescents and adults
Assessment, diagnosing and
Treatment
Group Facilitating
Legal and Ethical issues
Discussion of text questions
Review of next session
Course Objective(s): 1, 2, 3, 4
Session II
Day 3
10/24/13
Morning
10 am -12:30
Lunch (12:301:30)
Afternoon
1:30-5
Sexual Abuse – Individual and group
treatment
Evidenced based Interventions
Environmental and cultural
Considerations
Adult and adolescent offenders
Treatment
Prevention
Resources
Referral
Pornography
Sexual Addiction Cycle
Discussion of text questions
Course Objective(s): 1, 2, 3, 4
Chapters 14, 18,
19 thru 21, 24+25
Narrating the Closet,
by Tony Adams
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Session II
Day 4
10/25/13
Morning
9 am -12:00
Lunch (12:001:00)
Afternoon
1:00-5
Session III
Day 5
11/21/13
Morning
10 am -12:30
Lunch (12:301:30)
Afternoon
1:30-5
Session III
Day 6
11/22/13
Morning
9 am -12:00
Homosexuality
LGBTQ cultural and environmental issues
Professional Competencies
Guest Speaker
Current ACA ethical issues
Counselor self-awareness of values
Sexuality and physical illness
Sexuality and disabilities
Aging and sexual issues
Discussion of text questions
Review of next session
Course Objective(s): 1, 2, 3, 4
Birth Control choices and STI’s
Counseling the infertile individual/couple
Pregnancy issues
Conception/Birth
Presentation 1, 2, & 3
Paraphillias
Desire Disorders
Arousal Disorders
Chapters
9 thru 12,
15+16, 22+23
Presentations
Discussion of text questions
Course Objective(s): 1, 2, 3, 4
Presentations 4, 5, 6, 7
Orgasm Disorders
Pain Disorders
Gender Dysphoria
Healthy Sexuality from a Christian Perspective
Research/Integration
Paper
Discussion of text questions
Lunch (12:001:00)
Afternoon
1:00-5
Presentations
Review of the course
Evaluation
Course Objective(s): 1, 2, 3, 4
Video Assessment Reports - Due Date: December 3, 2013
Final Exam - Due Date: December 3, 2013