Andrew's Approach
Andrew is a Social Worker turned Sex Therapist. Working for many years in the sexual health public health system Andrew recognised a significant gap for individuals and couples when it comes to seeking support for issues relating to sexual function and relationships. Andrew created Staghorn Sexology to bridge that gap creating a non judgmental and professional Social Work counselling service that caters for all your sexological needs.
Andrew utilises an integrative counselling approach tailoring his use of theory and counselling style based on your needs. Andrew is versed in the following approaches:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (and Cognitive Behavioural Couple Therapy) (CBT/CBCT)
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Solution Focused Therapy (SFT)
- InterPersonal Therapy (IPT)
- Motivational Interviewing (MI)
- Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)
As a Social Worker Andrew is influenced by
- System Theory
- Feminist Theory
- Anti-oppressive Theory
Qualifications
- Masters of Science in Medicine (Sexual and Reproductive Health) in Psychosexual Therapy (University of Sydney, 2019)
- Bachelor of Social Work (Hons 1) (University of Sydney, 2009)
- Bachelor of Arts (Psychology/Film Studies) (University of Sydney, 2006)
Additional Education and Training
- Gottman Method Couple Therapy - Level 1 Training
- Gottman Method Couple Therapy - Level 2 Training
- Treating Affairs and Trauma: Helping Couples Heal and Rebuild Trust (Gottman)
- Couples and Addiction Recovery (Gottman)
- Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) Introductory Training (Therapist Training)
Employment
In addition to his private work Andrew is currently employed within NSW Health:
- Senior Social Worker, Nepean Sexual Health and HIV Clinic
Andrew is also a Lecturer at the University of Sydney's School of Medicine and supports the Psychosexual Therapy program.
Andrew has held the following positions:
- Social Work Team Leader, Western Sydney Sexual Health Centre
- Senior Social Work, Western Sydney Sexual Health Centre
- Social Work, South Western Sydney Local Health District HIV Community Team
- Social Work, Bigge Park Centre (Liverpool Sexual Health)
- Social Work, Chronic and Complex Care, Liverpool Hospital
- Social Work, Hep C/Liver Treatment Clinic, Gastroenterology Department, Liverpool Hospital
Professional Associations
Andrew is a professional member of the following associations:
- Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW)
- Society of Australian Sexologists (SAS)
Andrew is the current chairperson for the Sexual Health Counselors Association of NSW (SCAN) and the current NSW Branch President of the Society of Australian Sexologists (SAS). Andrew is the previous chairperson for Social Workers in HIV (SWHIV).
Andrew is currently working towards accredited clinical membership with SAS and toward Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with AASW.
Philosophy
Staghorn Sexology was born out of a desire to extend and combine multiple facets of sexual health under the one umbrella. Much of sexual health care is silo'ed in the public system. At Staghorn Sexology we aim to provide a holistic service by:
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exploring the biological, psychological, social and sexual roots of your problem
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working with you and your health care team to meet your needs
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providing non-judgmental care.
Many people ask us "What does Staghorn mean?" The Staghorn in our logo is symbolic of many things:
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Masculinity: Andrew has seen firsthand the impact of sexual dysfunction on men and the social shame around common issues such as erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation which are so often impacted by performance anxiety. Andrew has a keen interest in working with men around masculinity issues.
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Care: If you look closely the Staghorn looks like a pair of hands reaching out to support you
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Feminity and relationships: Staghorn also represents the Staghorn Fern (one of Andrew's favourite plants in nature) and is symbolic of femininity and relationships. The Staghorn Fern, much like the orchard, is a visual representation of the beauty of the vulva. The Staghorn's duality and reliance on a tree for growth and nutrience is symbolic of the balance we need in our relationships for sustainability and growth.
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Connection to nature: So much of nature is symbolic and beautiful and at Staghorn Sexology we try to balance our approach by being as eco-friendly as possible. Situated in the Blue Mountains it's hard not to be inspired by the richness of nature.