Continuing Education Center

There is growing recognition that many adults with a sexual attraction for children are motivated not to cause harm. Referred to as minor-attracted persons (MAPs), these individuals have not committed sexual offenses and the primary goal is to provide support to help them remain free of offending. Yet, these clients, and those who treat them, face the additional challenge of apprehension among lay persons and other professionals who do not understand the complexities of this issue, conflating these well-intentioned MAPs with people who have harmed. Implementing the right treatment approaches is crucial in safeguarding children and helping clients build better lives for themselves.

This training explores how stigma, social norms, moral panic, and sexual attraction act as barriers to those seeking help in preventing themselves from committing their first offense. Dr. Spooner provides a comprehensive understanding of minor-attracted people, as well as the inaccurate narratives about MAPs that result in strained relationships between providers and clients. Lastly, participants are encouraged to identify and reflect on their personal biases, explore effective approaches to meeting the needs of MAPs, and consider alternative approaches to current practices.

This training offers an in-depth exploration of Motivational Interviewing (MI) strategies for identifying and exploring client motivations that may not seem evident, particularly among those who seem resistant to treatment. Presenter David Prescott reviews four micro-skills and specific techniques involving scaling questions and options menus for engaging clients and focusing on personally meaningful and relevant goals. Some of these skills review a new examination; this includes differentiating between simple and complex affirmations. Prescott also reviews the less-obvious ways that clients indicate that they are considering making changes to their lives and offers skills for strengthening commitment to treatment goals.

By effectively applying these MI principles and techniques, clinicians can significantly enhance treatment outcomes and empower clients to make meaningful and lasting life changes.

Across her 24-year career, presenter Katie Gotch has researched, assessed, and treated numerous men convicted of crimes related to sex trafficking. Katie developed this training to provide information on domestic and international human trafficking, with a focus on the perpetration of sex trafficking, followed by an overview of the current research related to perpetrators of domestic sex trafficking in the United States. The session also provides practical guidance and strategies for the assessment, treatment, management, and supervision of those who perpetrate domestic sex trafficking.