Overcoming Sexual Shame and Anxiety: A Sex Therapy Toolkit for Connection

Desert–CAMFT

presents

in collaboration with the Central Coast chapter

Overcoming Sexual Shame and Anxiety: A Sex Therapy Toolkit for Connection

with David F. Khalili, LMFT

Friday, September 25, 2026
9:30am-11:30am

Online Via Zoom

(link will be provided in confirmation and reminder emails)

2 CE Credits

Description

This workshop delves into the intricate dynamics of shame and anxiety and their influence on sex therapy practices across diverse genders, with a special focus on working with men, including trans men. By addressing these critical issues, therapists can empower their clients to tackle sexual and relational challenges more effectively. Guided by David F. Khalili, LMFT, from Rouse Relational Wellness and Rouse Academy, and author of The Mental Health Workbook for Men, this session promises engaging discussions, vivid vignettes, and practical tools for addressing sexual shame and anxiety in men. Whether you are an experienced sex therapist or don’t know how to talk about sex with clients, this training offers valuable insights and strategies to enhance your practice.

Education Goals

The program focuses on helping clients reduce anxiety and shame related to sex. Participants will acquire skills in utilizing practical assessment tools and techniques to effectively understand the impact of shame and anxiety on sexual concerns, leading to increased comfort discussing sex in therapy. Participants will also learn techniques to help clients address sexual anxiety and shame, and improve confidence in their sexual selves. This course is designed to appeal to clinicians at all levels of experience.

Learning Objectives

In successfully completing and attending this presentation, participants will be able to:

1. Identify four key principles of the biopsychosocial approach to sex therapy.

2. Name four techniques to help clients address sexual anxiety and shame.

3. State five reasons shame and anxiety impact sexual functioning.

4. Identify four strategies to empower clients to improve confidence in communicating about sex.

David F. Khalili, LMFT is a licensed marriage and family therapist, board-certified sexologist, and founder of Rouse Relational Wellness, a boutique couples and sex therapy center in San Francisco, and authored Mental Health Workbook for Men and Sex Worriers: A Mindfully Queer Guide for Men’s Anxiety to Sex and Dating. David pulls from many influences in the world of mental health and sexual wellness, as well as cultural and spiritual influences from his heritage from Iran. David aims to help those in the margins feel less lonely and more connected with their communities. Specializing in couples and sex therapy, David draws from his diverse background, which includes peer sex education, work in adult boutiques, and a Master's degree in Sexuality Studies from San Francisco State University. For more information about David's practice, visit rousetherapy.com.

Cost/Registration

$25 for Desert-CAMFT Members

$15 for Prelicensed Members

$35 for Non-members or Guests

Questions

Please email Chaundra Prehara, Director of Events at chaundraprehara@yahoo.com.