For Immediate Release
Media inquiries: Amy Tucci, atucci@hospicefoundation.org
Registration questions: Educate@hospicefoundation.org
 
HOSPICE FOUNDATION OF AMERICA TO HOST WEBINAR ON INTIMACY AND SEXUALITY
Upcoming Program airs live via Zoom at 1 p.m. ET on September 24, 2020

Washington, Sept. 14 – Intimacy and sexuality—“taboo” topics missing from conversations around terminal illness and loss but of paramount importance to those affected – are the focus of a continuing education program hosted next week by Hospice Foundation of America (HFA).

“In my years of end-of-life counseling education, intimacy and sexuality were rarely addressed,” said program panelist Kenneth Doka, PhD, MDiv, senior bereavement consultant to HFA. “It is time they ceased to be taboo and that we begin to acknowledge them as human needs.”

The two-hour live event on Thursday, September 24 will air on Zoom and will be moderated by Frank Sesno of The George Washington University. In addition to Dr. Doka, panelists include: Carrie Arnold, PhD, FT, MEd, RSW, CCC, Assistant Professor, Thanatology, King’s University College at Western University (Canada); Alua Arthur, JD, death doula, attorney, and the founder of Going with Grace; and John Cagle, PhD, MSW, Associate Professor, University of Maryland School of Social Work.

Topics that will be covered in the webinar include:

• What is the difference between intimacy and sexuality?
• How should health and social service professionals ask patients and clients about intimate and sexual needs?
• What techniques can be suggested to help patients whose illness has impacted their ability to engage in an intimate or sexual relationship?
• Can barriers to intimacy be overcome during COVID-19?
• How can loss affect intimacy and sexuality?
• What ethical issues should healthcare and grief professionals be aware of when helping clients and patients meet intimate and sexual needs?

Two hours of continuing education credit is included with an individual registration; unlimited CEs are included with organizational registration. Registration includes a companion book with chapters written by program panelists and other experts. Credit is available through September 23, 2021. Register here.

This program is part of the Living with Grief® educational series, now in its 27^th year. On-demand program viewing and continuing education will be available after the live event.

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