Homework: Seeing Progress
“To change a habit, make a conscious decision, then act out the new behavior.”
To help clients achieve the changes they are looking for, I may give homework assignments. Here are some general reasons why you it is beneficial to practice them at home:
Skill Development: I often teach clients specific skills, techniques, or exercises to address sexual concerns or enhance sexual well-being. Homework assignments provide an opportunity for you to practice and develop these skills outside of the sessions, allowing you to gain proficiency and confidence.
Application and Integration: Homework helps you apply the knowledge and strategies learned sessions to your real-life situations. By engaging in homework exercises, you can actively integrate new ideas and behaviors into their daily lives, fostering lasting change.
Reinforcement and Progress Monitoring: Homework assignments serve as a way to reinforce the concepts and strategies discussed in sessions. By completing assignments, you can reinforce their learning and progress, while I can help you track your progression over time and identify areas obstacles.
Behavioral Change: Many sexual and relational concerns involve modifying behaviors or establishing new patterns. Homework assignments offer an opportunity to practice new behaviors, monitor your progress, and make adjustments as needed. Remember that changing behaviors takes lots and lots of practice!
Communication Enhancement: Effective communication is often a key component of sexual well-being and relationship satisfaction. Homework exercises can involve practicing communication skills, such as active listening or assertive expression, to improve interpersonal dynamics and sexual communication.
Self-Exploration and Reflection: I may assign homework that encourages clients to explore their attitudes, beliefs, and values related to their sexuality. These assignments promote self-reflection, self-awareness, and personal growth, enabling clients to gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their sexual needs.
Empowerment and Responsibility: Homework assignments empowers you to take an active role in your own sexual well-being. By participating in homework, you can gain a sense of responsibility and agency.
I tailor homework assignments to your specific needs, goals, and preferences. You’d practice and home and we will explore in session your experience. There’s also no judgement when you don’t follow through! We’d explore what got in your way and whether your priorities have changed. The assignments are designed to support and enhance the process and encourage you to actively engage in your own sexual and/or relational growth and development.
If you’d like to request a session, click here.
I am a PhD in Clinical Sexology candidate at Modern Sex Therapy Institutes and have a Master of Science in Educational Psychology. I work with individuals, couples, non-monogamous relationships, and groups in topics related to sexuality, emotional regulation, communication dynamics, and changing behaviors.
