The State of Current Science on the Biology of Sexual Orientation

Title of Event:The State of Current Science on the Biology of Sexual Orientation

Description of Event:

"Born that way" — it's a phrase that has shaped public discourse around sexual orientation for decades. But the scientific facts are a lot more complicated, and clinicians who rely on oversimplified explanations risk doing their clients a disservice. This one-hour live training offers a clear, accurate, and clinically empowering review of the current state of science on the biology of sexual orientation — equipping providers to give more honest, nuanced answers to clients who are curious about where their sexuality comes from.

Drawing from the most reliable genetic data now available — including a landmark 2019 study examining the genomes of over 450,000 individuals — Dr. Diamond will walk participants through the dramatic changes that have occurred in our understanding of biological influences on sexual orientation over the past several decades. The data show that same-gender sexuality is genetically influenced, but not genetically determined — a finding with profound implications for how clinicians discuss sexual orientation with clients. The training also examines why the "born that way" explanation is just as oversimplified as views that sexual orientation is a choice or a sin, and offers common-sense language for describing and interpreting these findings with clients who are questioning their sexuality or seeking to understand their own origins.

Date of Event: 8/24/26

Time of Event: 2:00 PM MST

Location: Online Synchronous

Sex Therapy (ST) Training: 

ST1. Theory and methods of sex-related psychotherapy, including several different models.

Presenter/Speaker: Dr. Lisa Diamond

Company/Organization Sponsor: The Healing Group Institute

Contact Name: Katie Potts

Contact Telephone Number: (309) 530-9375

Contact Email: katie@thehealinggroup.com

Event Website: thehealinggroupinstitute.com

AASECT Approved CEs: 1