Teens, sex, and physical disability: Practical strategies to support client goals related to sexual expression (December 3, 2024)

Presented by: Amanda Landry & Charise MacDonald

Sexuality is an underexplored topic between health care professionals (HCPs) and young people with disabilities and/or chronic conditions (Lung et al., 2021). HCPs report a lack of adequate resources to explore the topic of sexuality with clients, leaving them feeling unprepared to engage in these discussions (Engelen et al., 2020; Lung et al., 2022; Streur et al., 2019). Teens, Sex, and Neuromuscular Conditions: A Practical Guide for Clinicians (Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, 2023) was created to support Canadian HCPs in addressing client goals related to sexual expression and sexual health for youth with neuromuscular conditions. This resource includes information and handouts that can also be applied to a more diverse group of clients who have physical disabilities and goals related to occupations around sexual expression.

This webinar will explore strategies for addressing topics including friendships, relationships, and sexual expression with clients who have physical disabilities. Considerations and strategies related to energy conservation, supportive positioning, and toys and tools will be discussed.

After taking part in this webinar, participants will be able to: 

1. Describe the importance of providing clients with the opportunity to address goals related to sexual expression.
2. Apply practical strategies in conversations around friendships, relationships, and sexual expression.
3. Identify factors that impact participation in sexual expression for individuals with physical disabilities. 

Level  Beginner (0-2 years of experience in this specific practice area) 

Area of practice Advocacy, Caregiver/Family Education, Chronic Disease Management, Generalist, Health Promotion & Wellness, Independent Living & Housing, MSK Rehabilitation, Occupational Therapist Assistants, Pediatrics, Primary Care, Sexuality & Gender 

Client age group Adolescents (13-19 years old), Adults (20-64 years old)