Rivka is an IAPST Certified Psychosexual Therapist, an IAPST Certified Psychosexual Supervisor, an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist Supervisor, a licensed clinical social worker, a Social Work Board Certified Supervisor, a Faculty Lecturer, a published author, a Harvard University research fellowship recipient, and an experienced lecturer. She is the owner and director of a group psychotherapy practice in Silver Spring, Maryland. She was personally mentored and was trained in sexual dysfunction and sex therapy from internationally renowned Dr. Laura Berman, Oprah’s relationship and sex expert, at the Berman Center in Chicago. In addition to her private practice, Rivka is an invited guest to train doctors, nurses, faculty, fellow therapists, and students at The University of Maryland. She is a Faculty Lecturer at The Integrative Sex Therapy Institute on topics which include female sexual dysfunction, sexual pain, vaginismus, sexual aversion, couples sexual issues, and performing sex therapy with diverse religions and cultures. She lives in Silver Spring with her husband and their five children.

Module 1 — Introduction to Sexuality During the Reproductive Years

5 minutes

• Overview of sexuality across pre-pregnancy, pregnancy, and the postpartum period
• Introduction to the physical, psychological, and relational factors that may affect sexual wellbeing

Module 2 — Pre-Pregnancy and Fertility-Related Concerns

8 minutes

• Sexual concerns associated with preparing for pregnancy
• The potential effects of difficulty becoming pregnant on sexual desire, intimacy, and the couple relationship
• Clinical considerations for supporting individuals and couples during fertility-related stress

Module 3 — Sexuality During Pregnancy

15 minutes

• Common sexual changes and concerns during the first, second, and third trimesters
• Physical and medical considerations related to sexual activity during pregnancy
• Psychological, relational, and body-image factors that may influence sexual functioning and satisfaction

Module 4 — Sexual Health and Safety Considerations

7 minutes

• General considerations regarding sexual activity during pregnancy and postpartum recovery
• Recognizing when medical consultation or referral may be appropriate
• Communicating about concerns, comfort, consent, and changing sexual needs

Module 5 — Sexuality During the Postpartum Period

10 minutes

• Physical and emotional changes following childbirth
• Changes in sexual desire, comfort, intimacy, and relationship dynamics
• Supporting the adjustment to new parental roles while maintaining emotional and sexual connection

Module 6 — Clinical Assessment and Intervention

5 minutes

• Assessing pregnancy- and postpartum-related sexual concerns in individual and couples therapy
• Clinical strategies for improving communication, reducing distress, and supporting sexual adaptation
• Integrating medical, psychological, and relational considerations into treatment planning

Required Post-Test

8 minutes

Course Evaluation and Completion

2 minutes

AASECT Knowledge Areas

This course addresses developmental sexuality; sociocultural and familial factors; intimacy skills; sexual and reproductive anatomy; health and medical factors; the range of sexual functioning and behavior; pleasure-enhancement skills; learning theory and its application; and professional communication and personal reflection.

May be used for applicable Sex Therapy Training competencies ST2, ST3, ST4, ST5, and ST7, subject to the requirements and approval of the relevant certification program.