New version of the workbook is nearing completion.

While the content is complete, I have about 2-3 more months of behind the scenes processing to complete before the new workbook is available. I'm surprised at how long it takes to actually publish the workbook.

The new intro

I wrote a new intro to the workbook.

Too many people are struggling to live a life they love. Consider the following conversations.

Me: Hello, this is Weston. How may I help you?
Client: Hi. I need to set up an appointment for therapy.
Me: OK. Can you tell me a bit to see if I’m a right fit?
Client: I keep having sex with a lot of people. I don’t seem to be able to stop.
Or,
Client: Yeah. My probation officer told me I had to see you because I was arrested.
Or,
Client: My partner is threatening to break up because I’m on the Internet too much.
Or,
Client: I went home with a sexual partner last night, and I think I was raped. I don’t know for sure. I can’t remember everything.
Or,
Client: I’m too scared to have any type of sexual contact.
Or.
Client: Can you help me find help for my partner? I just found out he’s been having sex with other people. I don’t know what to do.
And one more.
Client: Yeah, I just found out I’m HIV positive. I’ve been drinking, drugging, and having lots of sex.

My heart breaks at the frequency of these real conversations I have on a weekly basis. In the realm of sexuality, feelings of hurt and hopelessness abound. In my opinion, it is a courageous act to pick up a book on sexuality. Simply starting this workbook is movement toward healing. This workbook is committed to helping you move forward and address the issues related to problematic sexual behaviors. In the end, my goal is you will have the freedom to say, “I’m living a life I love.” Shall we begin?

Acknowledgements for the new workbook

All authors know “the truth” that a project of this type is only possible with the support of others. I never fully understood the reality of this truth – until now. As I finish this workbook, I find I am deeply moved by the journey. As the final pieces of the project came together, I literally found myself crying in a coffee shop because of the relief due to finishing amount of work, the level of hurt and frustration I see others experience, and the struggles that so many people have with hopelessness. And like the sunrise breaking the darkness of night, I experience the birth of hope in the middle of despair.
I want to acknowledge the following individuals who provided support throughout the years.
First, recognition goes to my clients. Your journey led to the project. Your struggles, needs, hopes and failures all point to a desire for sexual health. Your cries of “help” and the lack of information available are the inspiration for the workbook. I am grateful and humbled for your generosity by including me in your journey. I hope this is another step in your recovery and movement toward sexual health. The journey can be difficult at times and I acknowledge your courage to take one-step, one-day, and one-topic at a time.
The faculty at the University of Minnesota who served as colleagues and mentors deserve second recognition. I specifically mention Drs. Simon Rosser, Eli Coleman, Bean Robinson, and Mike Miner. These four, among many others, provided an avenue that started my journey in the field of sexuality, encouragement along the way, and the occasional “special support” when I was stuck. My respect for them has grown over the 15 years.
Next, I acknowledge four individuals who contributed to the workbook: Larry S., Amanda R., James S., and Erich A. who helped me in the layout, content, and editing. I cannot tell you how many times they listened to my excitement and frustration (and all for free!). I cannot count the number of drafts they reviewed. I am grateful.
Finally, to Luis who lovingly froze not understanding the intensity of my reaction that day in the coffee shop. Your presence was the support and love I needed.
Weston M Edwards
May 3, 2009