Healthy Relationships and Sexuality Education for People with Developmental Disabilities

Romantic relationships are a daily struggle for many of the clients that we work with. Navigating those relationships can cause frustration and anxiety as individuals process the emotions that they are feeling; and receive the messages that the other person is sending. Relationships and sexuality can be a confusing topic, and we have found that there is a need for continued education on the subject.

In October, an FSL parent recommended an event with Terri Couwenhoven, a Sex Educator that specializes in education for those with intellectual disabilities. Two of our staff members attended that workshop and were excited about the beneficial information that they received. They returned with a copy of her book, Teaching Children with Down Syndrome About Their Bodies, Boundaries, and Sexuality: A Guide for Parents and Professionals, and the enthusiasm to learn more.

FSL staff will be attending a three-day Developmental Disabilities and Sexuality workshop with Katherine McLaughlin in March. Katherine McLaughlin, M.Ed. is an expert on sexuality and developmental disabilities. At the workshop, staff will acquire the skills and resources to lead sexuality education classes and parent trainings.

​After this workshop we plan to provide opportunities to share information on this valuable topic within our community. FSL will be announcing dates for Healthy Relationship classes  in the near future. If you are interested in participating in a class, please use the form below to provide us with your email address. When we announce upcoming relationship and sexuality events, you will be the first to know!