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Helping Parents of Teens with Autism Talk about Dating and Sex: 5 Tips for Occupational Therapists
The topic of dating and romance can be quite difficult to initiate with parents of adolescent clients, especially those with autism. However, as an occupational therapist (OT), you can help parents create a safe, calm, and judgment-free space for their teens to freely express their desires.
Here are five tips to help you initiate a healthy conversation about dating and sex with parents of teens with autism:
- Use open & validating dialogue:Â Encourage parents to validate their teen's desires and create a safe and non-judgmental environment for open communication. Acknowledge the discomfort and awkwardness that parents might feel, and encourage them to persist through the discussions.
- Examples of things parents can say:“Yes, I know these feelings can be a little confusing or awkward," or  “It’s ok, you’re just learning how to date or ask people out.”
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Ask questions about your teen's dating interests: Use initial questions to help your teen think through their interest
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OT + Accessible Sexual Health Information: Sex Ed for Folks with IDD
One question I often get asked is, how should I address sexuality and intimacy with teens and young adults? And I get it... it sounds like it can be an uncomfortable conversation to have! But, I'm here to tell you it doesn't need to feel that scary. There are a handful of topics that fall within our scope of practice and relate to sexuality and intimacy. Â
If you haven't already heard of the podcast OT After Dark, it's another great resource for learning more about this niche world of sex, intimacy and OT. Episode 19, Accessible Sex Education: Addressing the Sexual Needs of Individuals with IDD (Intellectual and Developmental Disability) is a great listen and is available on Spotify and apple podcast!
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In this episode Dr. Elizabeth Schmidt, PhD, shares her dissertation research and current recommendations on how to address sexuality and intimacy with teens, young adults and more specifically individuals with IDD.Â
Individuals with IDD have greater rates of sexual abuse and assault...
"5 Clinical Conversation Starters"Â + be the first to know by getting the blog right to your inbox!
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.
