Lisa Chism, DNP, APRN, NCMP, FAANP, clinical director of the Women’s Wellness Clinic at the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, has received her certification as a sexuality counselor from the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT), the main certifying body for sexuality counselors.
The certification required Dr. Chism to obtain 90 continuing education credits at the University of Michigan’s School of Social Work, and perform 30 hours of clinical supervision with a certified sexuality therapist. It took her approximately three-and-a-half years to complete the requirements for certification.
“Attaining AASECT certification was a huge commitment but one I felt was worthwhile,” said Dr. Chism.
Sexuality counselors help patients or clients resolve concerns through the introduction of problem-solving techniques of communication. They also teach them how to express their concerns, as well as provide information and suggestions of specific exercises and techniques in sexual expression. Sexuality counseling is generally short-term and patient-centered, focusing on an immediate concern or problem.
Many patients undergoing cancer treatments or with a history of cancer may experience symptoms related to menopause and/or sexual health concerns. Dr. Chism helps manage these issues through comprehensive evaluation, counseling, education and treatment.
“The education and training I completed as requirements for AASECT certification allowed me to develop a deeper understanding and ability to counsel cancer patients,” Dr. Chism said. “I was trained by experts in mental health and I have a much greater sense of how to relate to patients as a counselor than I did before. This has not only impacted my patient care related to sexual health issues but patient care overall.”
Dr. Chism said that she is grateful for Karmanos leadership in supporting her efforts to achieve certification and to develop this sexual health and menopause specialty through the Women’s Wellness Clinic, which she maintains at Karmanos’ Detroit and Farmington Hills locations.
“My goal is to continue providing excellent care to our patients and to continue to educate others on topics related to menopause, sexual health and cancer, nationally and locally,” she said. “Improving patients’ quality of life is so rewarding. While my wonderful colleagues at Karmanos treat patients for cancer, I can help patients by caring for their menopause and/or sexual health issues.”
Founded in 1967, AASECT is devoted to the promotion of sexual health by the development and advancement of the fields of sexual therapy, counseling and education. AASECT's mission is the advancement of the highest standards of professional practice for educators, counselors and therapists.