Sexual wellbeing is an important aspect of overall health, identity, intimacy and relationships. For many people affected by epilepsy, however, sexual concerns can remain unspoken and unsupported despite having a significant impact on quality of life.
This self-access class is designed specifically for qualified Psychosexual and Relationship Therapists and explores how epilepsy-related factors may influence sexual wellbeing, confidence, relationships and intimate experiences. The training provides a practical understanding of how these concerns may present in therapy and how therapists can respond safely, ethically and effectively within the scope of their professional role.
This self-access class introduces the biopsychosocial factors that can contribute to sexual difficulties in people affected by epilepsy, including the potential impact of anti-seizure medication, fatigue, anxiety, identity, body confidence and relationship dynamics. Medication is discussed only in relation to how its effects may present within therapy. The training does not cover prescribing, medical management or clinical decision-making outside the therapist’s scope of practice.
Participants will learn how to conduct focused assessment, formulate difficulties using a biopsychosocial framework, adapt psychosexual interventions where appropriate, and identify when liaison with medical professionals or referral to other services may be beneficial.
Through practical examples, case studies and reflective exercises, this class supports therapists to work confidently with service users affected by epilepsy while maintaining clear professional boundaries and collaborative care pathways.
Session Structure
Module 1: Introduction to Sexual Wellbeing in Epilepsy Care
This module explores the relationship between epilepsy and sexual wellbeing through a biopsychosocial lens. Participants will consider the impact of epilepsy on identity, intimacy, relationships and confidence, alongside common concerns relating to medication, sexual functioning and fear of seizures during sexual activity.
Module 2: Psychosexual and Relationship Therapy Approaches
This module focuses on assessment and intervention. Participants will learn how to open conversations about sexual wellbeing, reduce shame, explore anxiety and avoidance patterns, adapt sensate focus approaches, and support service users experiencing changes in confidence, body image or intimacy. The module also explores couples work and trauma-informed practice.
Module 3: Case Formulation and Clinical Application
Using realistic case examples, participants will develop confidence applying biopsychosocial formulation to clinical practice. The module explores intervention planning, communication difficulties, intimacy concerns, referral pathways and collaborative working with healthcare professionals while remaining within professional scope.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this class participants will be able to:
- Understand how epilepsy-related factors may influence sexual wellbeing, intimacy and relational confidence
- Apply a biopsychosocial framework when assessing sexual concerns in service users affected by epilepsy
- Recognise when specialist Psychosexual or Relationship Therapy may be indicated
- Develop confidence in taking a focused psychosexual history when epilepsy is present
- Adapt therapeutic pacing and interventions appropriately
- Identify the psychological and relational impacts of epilepsy on sexual wellbeing
- Understand when liaison with medical professionals may be appropriate
- Clarify professional boundaries, referral pathways and collaborative working arrangements
- Strengthen safe, ethical and effective psychosexual practice when supporting service users with complex health needs
About the Trainer
Dr. Kahverry Rajeswaran
GP, Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist
Dr. Kahv is a General Practitioner and a specialised Psychosexual and Relationship Therapist. As the founder of Dr. Kahv Intimate Wellness, she bridges the gap between medical health and relational well-being, helping individuals and couples navigate intimacy challenges with compassion and clinical expertise.
A dedicated leader in her field, Dr. Kahv is a committee member of the British Society for Sexual Medicine (BSSM). She also contributes to cutting-edge clinical research, currently collaborating with St Mark’s Hospital on a Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) study examining sexual dysfunction in patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).
By integrating general medicine with psychosexual therapy, Dr. Kahv offers a holistic, evidence-based approach to the intersection of physical health, mental wellness, and relationships.
