Let’s Meet Our Current Sexologists
We are pleased to announce that Sexology appointments are now available to our student community! In this article, the Student Wellness Hub’s current in-house Sexologists, Maga-Li Monteilhet-Labossière and Julie Marceau discuss their roles, topics of expertise, and common misconceptions surrounding this valuable new service! To learn more you can visit our Sexologists page.
"People used to ask me when I was younger, 'what do you want to do when you grow up?' My answer was always, 'I want to help people!' How? I didn’t know yet.
When I had my first psychology classes, I fell in love with the human mind. I knew at that moment that my future career would be in the mental health field. I was lucky enough to study at the only Sexology department in North America at UQAM. Now, a couple of years later, I am proud to offer the very first Sexology appointments at the Student Wellness Hub."
-Maga-Li
“I was always very intrigued as to why sexuality was taboo. What was hidden underneath that we couldn’t talk about? Early on, I had questions, and little by little I started to understand that sexuality-related issues were often at the core of gender discrimination.
Subjects like sexual violence, sexual double standards, slut-shaming, marginalization of all kinds, deeply interested me. I loved analyzing how the personal is political and the political affects the personal. Animated with the optimistic conviction that I could change the world, I set out to do it through sexual education and counseling, helping people and communities connect to their power and agency.”
-Julie
What is the role of Sexologists at the Student Wellness Hub?
The role of a Sexologist at the Student Wellness Hub is to offer a judgment-free space where students can feel safe to talk about sexuality-related issues. Sexuality can be a tricky and uncomfortable topic for students to talk about because it is intimate and can feel very personal. It is normal to be shy (or uncomfortable!) when first addressing sexuality. Sexology is multi-faceted and a part of human nature. Our Sexologists understand and recognize this. Our sexologist can help you understand yourself better by supporting you through the discomfort.
What can students expect from a typical session?
To begin, the Sexologist will listen and explore the student’s presenting issues or questions. The Sexologist will follow up to assess the various dimensions affecting the individual. Dimensions can include beliefs about sexuality, relational history, sexual development, and more. The Sexologist will then help the student conceptualize what they are struggling with or navigating, and together, the Sexologist and student will develop a sexual wellness plan.
How do Sexologists differentiate from other mental health professionals?
Like other mental health professionals at the Hub, Sexologists offer one-on-one counseling appointments. What differentiates Sexologists is their expertise in sexual development and sexual behavior.
As a multidisciplinary and holistic practice, Sexology considers biological, psychological, sociocultural, interpersonal, ethical, historical, and emotional factors affecting sexuality.
What are common topics students address?
Here is a non-exhaustive list of reasons why students may consult with a Sexologist:
- Sexual Orientation (i.e. questioning one's sexual orientation/preference, coming out, unsupportive family or community)
- Sexual Identity (i.e. questioning one’s gender identity, dealing with different stages of transitioning)
- Sexual Violence and Harassment
- Questioning Socio-Sexual Norms (i.e. gender stereotypes, sexual double standards, slut-shaming)
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (i.e. coping with an STI, de-stigmatization, communicating to partners)
- Sexual Dysfunctions (i.e. Hyper/Hypo sexual desire; erectile dysfunction; vaginismus/dyspareunia)
- Fertility and Contraception (pregnancy, abortion, miscarriage)
- Socio-Sexual Development (i.e. first sexual experiences)
- Sexual Functioning and Erotic Skills (i.e. desire, sexual fantasies, orgasm, seduction, sexual pleasure, and interpersonal communication)
- BDSM Practices
- Sex Work
- Relational Configurations (i.e. polyamory, casual dating, marriage)
- Sexual Addictions / Paraphilias (i.e. sexual compulsions, fetishism, disturbing sexual fantasies)
What are some misconceptions about being a Sexologist?
Like most mental health professionals, individuals are often afraid of being judged when they come and consult with Sexologists.
One misconception stems from the belief that Sexologists will either expect individuals to have a very active sex life or will judge them if they do.
On the contrary, Sexologists will never impose a way of expressing your sexuality. They understand that each individual is different in their sexual needs. They are educators and mental health professionals who help demystify human sexuality, offer a safer space for people to share their concerns, and learn reliable information about sexuality (instead of learning through the internet or pornography). Sexologists can help students navigate through a wide range of emotions and struggles one’s sexuality can trigger.
How will inclusivity be promoted within Sexology appointments at the Hub?
The first step towards promoting inclusivity is to question ourselves and our practice. Like other mental health professionals, we as Sexologists are encouraged to reflect on our values and beliefs to minimize their influence when helping others.
Sexologists take everyone’s belief systems into account when considering counseling objectives. Furthermore, gender identity and sexual orientation/preference are specialties of Sexology, therefore, members of the 2S&LGBTQ+ community can feel safe coming to talk to us.
Sexologists believe that everyone deserves to thrive in all aspects of their lives including sexuality and relationships, no matter what their gender identity, culture, class, sexual orientation, or capacity. We have a vested interest in making our appointments as inclusive as possible. We are always open to improving and value your input as students.
