The SIT Framework at the Christian Medical & Dental Association, Psychiatry Section
On Monday morning, May 7, I had the privilege of speaking to the Psychiatry Section of the Christian Medical and Dental Association about the Sexual Identity Therapy Framework. The Psychiatry Section of the CMDA always meets at the same time and place as the American Psychiatric Association conference, which met this year in Philadelphia. Thanks to Nadine Nyhus, section Chair, for the invitation.
Most of my time was spent presenting an update on developments regarding the SIT Framework since 2008. In May of that year, I was slated to be a part of symposium during the APA conference on therapeutic issues and same sex attraction. The panel was to be moderated by John Peteet with papers from Bishop Gene Robinson, David Scasta, Albert Mohler and me. The symposium was cancelled after Bishop Gene Robinson backed out. He had become convinced that somehow the panel would support reparative therapy. Of course, nothing could have been further from the truth. However, with his abrupt departure, the panel became the subject of intense controversy with gay advocates demanding that the APA to pull the plug, which they did.
The day after we were scheduled to present in 2008, I presented a talk, along with Rev. Mohler, to the Psychiatry section. My talk Monday picked up where I left off then and included a summary of the 2009 American Psychological Association Task Force Report. As we have pointed out here on this site, the SIT Framework was cited favorably in the APA report as a means of providing sensitive, affirming care for those who present with sexual identity conflicts.
The Power Point presentation I used can be viewed here.
Key Concepts Discussion at AACC
Dr. Mark Yarhouse will be presenting at the American Association of Christian Counselors World Conference in Nashville, TN, September 29, 2011. His workshop is on key concepts drawn from his research and clinical experience and tied to how he approaches sexual identity in clinical practice. These concepts include a three-tier distinction (between attractions, orientation and identity), weigthed aspects of identity (e.g., gender identity, biological sex, attractions, behaviors, etc.), and congruence (so that beliefs/values are reflected in behavior/identity). Dr. Trista Carr and Richard Morton will reflect on how they have experienced these concepts in practical ways in their work and ministry, as well as in their own lives.
Fall Training Announced
Dr. Mark Yarhouse is offering an all-day workshop on addressing sexual identity in clinical practice. The workshop will be held on the Regent University campus in Virginia Beach, Virginia. It will be held Friday, October 1st, 2010, from 9am to 4pm. On-line registration is now available here.
From the registration page:
This workshop will introduce participants to sexual identity issues often addressed in clinical practice. Participants will learn about professional and ethical issues in navigating sexual and religious identity considerations. Participants will also learn foundations for the practical applications of sexual identity therapy in their work with people who experience same-sex attractions.
The workshop is co-sponsored by the Institute for the Study of Sexual Identity and Genesis Counseling Center.
