As a current second year in Regent’s Clinical Psychology PsyD Program, I have been a part of the CHERISH research group since it began in January 2024. I have found great interest in this research group because of my desire to work with couples. In couple's counseling, concerns with intimacy or sexual healing are common topics that may arise. So, having an opportunity to receive training and consultation on cases that revolve around sexual topics has been beneficial. Additionally, I believe that sexual concerns or sexual healing are not talked about enough. These concerns are likely more common than you think – maybe it is not yourself, but someone close to you or in your vicinity that has been affected by this.
This research team has provided a breadth of information and training specifically in this area that I would not have otherwise received. I have learned about sexual pain, sexual healing, desire differences, sex addiction, and about the role our Christian values can play in this. I have gained insight into what types of interventions can be utilized in the therapy room when these types of concerns arise. These teachings have enhanced my knowledge and confidence in discussing and working on these concerns with clients. The CHERISH research team also acts as a specialty clinic. This means that by being part of this group and receiving training on these topics, I get to receive clients (individuals or couples) who present to the Psychological Services Center with sexual-related concerns.
Our research group meets for one hour every other week. During these meetings, one or two clinicians who are actively seeing CHERISH cases, whether individual or couples therapy, present their case. We use this time to consult and discuss what is going on in the case and future directions to provide the clients with the best possible treatment. This also gives the clinician the chance to ask questions to the group, seek out guidance on other routes they may be able to explore and hear other perspectives on items that they may not have otherwise considered. This is beneficial for all clinicians and other members of the research group to learn and practice conceptualizing these types of cases. The CHERISH research team is a unique opportunity to learn about and work with distinct issues that many people deal with at some point in their lives. If you have even the slightest interest, I would highly encourage you to check it out and give it a try.
— Alexis Bonn, 2nd Year Psy.D. Student
Comentários