Learners in this self-access class gain important information about the different types of desire, how sexual desire discrepancy functions in a relationship and the impact it has, mitigation of sexual desire discrepancy and problematic sexual desire, and the mechanisms of change that a therapist can rely on for addressing these issues.
Sexual desire is a universally experienced sexual response and concerns with sexual desire, whether high or low, are common. Sexual desire discrepancy, where one member of the couple has higher or lower sexual desire relative to their partner, is one of the most frequently reported sexual concerns for couples and has been shown to be negatively associated with sexual and relationship satisfaction and overall well-being.
Maintaining sexual desire in long term relationships is a struggle for many and sexual desire discrepancy may be an inevitable occurrence over the course of a relationship. Given the overwhelming number of clinicians who see sexual desire issues arise in their therapy room, whether due to relationship issues, medication side effects, or other issues, it is crucial for clinicians to have an in-depth understanding of sexual desire and sexual desire discrepancy.
About the Trainer:
Kristen Mark, PhD, MPH is a Sex and Relationships Researcher, Educator, and Therapist. She has spent the past 8 years at University of Kentucky as a faculty member in health promotion and Director of the Sexual Health Promotion Lab. She is currently transitioning to the University of Minnesota Medical School as the Joycelyn Elders Endowed Chair for Sexual Health Education and Professor in Family Medicine and Community Health. She is affiliate faculty at the Kinsey Institute.
Dr Mark specializes in the sexual well-being of couples, with particular expertise in sexual desire and desire discrepancy. She holds degrees in psychology, family science, biostatistics, and public health and her research and therapeutic approaches are as interdisciplinary as her training. Dr Mark consistently publishes scientific research in top journals in sexual health and has presented her work at hundreds of conferences nationally and internationally. Additionally, Dr Mark is regularly relied upon as an expert to digest sex and relationship science to print, radio, and television media.
