Sexual Difficulties Following Childhood Sexual Abuse and Trauma

Dr. Mark Schwartz’s webinar explores the complex relationship between sexual trauma, dissociation, and adult sexual functioning through the lens of sex therapy, trauma recovery, and attachment theory. Drawing from decades of clinical experience, Dr. Schwartz discusses how childhood sexual trauma can contribute to challenges such as sexual avoidance, hypersexuality, emotional numbing, dissociation, intimacy difficulties, and disrupted connections between the mind and body. The presentation highlights the importance of addressing sexuality as part of trauma recovery and provides clinicians and advocates with strategies for supporting survivors in rebuilding safety, bodily awareness, healthy relationships, and a sense of intimacy. Topics covered include treatment considerations after sexual trauma, dissociation and sexuality, somatic approaches, attachment patterns, sexual difficulties, and ways to promote healing and connection.