We’re thrilled to celebrate the work of Emma Myers, a doctoral student in Counseling Psychology and a member of the RQ Lab, who recently presented her research at the 2025 AASECT (American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists) Conference in Las Vegas.
Emma’s poster, titled “Exploring the Relationship Between Religiosity and Sources of Sexual Shame: A Sequential Mixed Methods Analysis,” investigates the nuanced ways religiosity may shape experiences of sexual shame — specifically moral, internalized, and non-moral sources of shame. Her work aims to clarify these complex dynamics and inform therapeutic practices for clinicians and faith communities working with individuals navigating sexual shame within religious contexts.
Reflecting on the experience, Emma shared:
“This was my first time attending and presenting at an AASECT conference, and I found the poster session both inspiring and affirming. Presenting my research was initially a bit intimidating, particularly discussing a faith-based topic within a diverse, liberal professional setting. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the genuine interest, meaningful questions, and thoughtful dialogue with experienced therapists and educators. The conversations highlighted a shared commitment to addressing sexual shame in nuanced, effective ways, reaffirming the importance of this research and its potential clinical impact within our field.”
Congratulations to Emma on this meaningful contribution to the ongoing conversation around sexuality, shame, and faith within the therapeutic community.
