International Symposium on Sex Therapy 2024

The First Annual International Symposium on Sex Therapy took place from May 20-22, 2024, in the picturesque city of Portimão, Portugal, drawing psychosexual therapists, researchers, and scholars worldwide. The event kicked off with an opening reception, allowing attendees to network and set the stage for a collaborative experience. The second day saw the presentation of five conference papers, highlighting recent advancements and new perspectives in sex therapy. Participants capped off the day with an optional group excursion to the famed Benagil caves, a scenic retreat in the Algarve that showcased the region’s natural beauty.

On the third and final day, four additional papers were presented, contributing further insights into the field. The IAPST Annual Member's Meeting convened, providing members with organizational updates and a vision for the future. This was followed by an engaging panel discussion featuring notable speakers Mark Yarhouse, Bat Sheva Marcus, and Wafaa Eltantawy, who discussed Caleb Jacobson’s book Sex Therapy with Religious Patients, a focal point for integrating spirituality with psychosexual therapy. The symposium concluded on a light-hearted note with an Ice Cream Social, offering participants one last chance to connect, reflect on their experiences, and say farewell to new colleagues and friends.