Intimate Relationships and Sexual Health: A Curriculum for Teaching Adolescents/Adults with High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorders and Other Social Challenges

INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP AND SEXUAL HEALTH is a comprehensive, practical, and step-by-step curriculum for teaching adolescents and adults about the multiple issues surrounding these sensitive, but critical topics. As everyday colleagues of Catherine Davies and Melissa Dubie, I know firsthand that this book is based on research of the literature, but more important, is based on the numerous concerned phone calls and requests they get from families and individuals. They have addressed these topics in a thoughtful and respectful manner. While some would like to avoid addressing issues related to intimacy and sexual health, supporting individuals in living a fulfilled life requires education and information. Davies and Dubie have provided the field with a valuable and long overdue tool. --Cathy Pratt, PhD, director, Indiana Resource Center for Autism

In one word: finally! When parents and professionals ask me if there is a comprehensive sexuality education curriculum for bright learners with ASD, I can finally say 'yes.' Davies and Dubie's exceptional program not only covers all the important topics that contribute to fostering healthy sexuality and personal safety, it is founded in evidence-based strategies for teaching learners with ASD. From assessment to teaching and evaluating progress, learners are engaged in role-playing, watching videos, small-group discussion, and reviewing social media. Davies and Dubie have created a jam-packed, yet easy-to-follow and well-organized complete package for addressing the sexual health needs of individuals with ASD. --Shana Nichols, PhD, owner and director ASPIRE Center for Learning and Development, co-author of GIRLS GROWING UP ON THE AUTISM SPECTRUM and FACING YOUR FEARS

INTIMATE RELATIONSHIPS AND SEXUAL HEALTH is an excellent and much-needed practical curriculum that provides educators and therapists with instruction and materials on teaching topics ranging from sexual anatomy to dating to intimate relationships, as well as guidelines for what constitutes abusive behavior. The format is easy to follow and provides instructions for use both in a group setting and for one-on-one use by therapists and parents. I highly recommend this book! --Chantal Sicile-Kira, founder of AutismCollege and author of AUTISM LIFE SKILLS and ADOLESCENTS ON THE AUTISM SPECTRUM

Catherine Davies, M.Ed.; M.Sc.; C.Psychol; LMHC; is an Educational Consultant at the Indiana Resource Center for Autism at Indiana University. She speaks regularly on the topics of Structured Teaching and Visual Supports emphasizing practical tips for educators and parents. Catherine has over 25 years experience working with children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and was a special education teacher, school psychologist and clinical psychologist in the UK. Since relocating to the US Catherine worked as a Psycho-educational Therapist in the TEACCH program supporting people with ASD and has had a private practice as an Autism and Structured Teaching Consultant.

 

Melissa Dubie, M.A. is an Educational Consultant at the Indiana Resource Center for Autism at Indiana University. She has worked in the public school system for 27 years with students with disabilities including ASD. During this time, she was a teacher, coordinator, coach and consultant for individuals from preschool through high school. Since joining IRCA in 2003, Melissa has guided families and professionals through the use of resources and information about issues related to puberty and sexual health.