Healthy sexual intimacy is foundational to building trust, vulnerability, and connection in marriage, positively influencing families and communities. This workshop integrates faith-based teachings, relational principles, and evidence-based insights to address keys to intimacy in committed relationships. Drawing on over 50 years of clinical experience, the presenters will explore the roles and responsibilities of spouses in fostering mutual sexual fulfillment, emphasizing the importance of mutuality, pleasure, and intentionality in sustaining passion. Participants will also learn how to identify and address past hurts and sexual dysfunctions that may interfere with intimacy. Practical tools, such as “The Formula for Intimacy,” will equip psychologists, licensed mental health professionals, and ministry leaders to guide couples in creating deliberate, meaningful connections. This workshop provides strategies to help couples deepen their intimacy and strengthen their relationships through evidence-informed and biblically aligned practices for willing Chrisitan clients.
106 | Building, Maintaining and Rekindling Intimacy in Marriage
PRESENTERS
Clifford Penner, Ph.D., Joyce Penner, M.N., R.N.
CE CREDITS
1.25
Approved For CE
ASWB, NBCC, IBCC, Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling
Approved For CME/CEU
LEVEL
Beginner
Summary
Learning Objectives
1 Describe biblical teachings about male and female roles for intimacy with gender-related roles and responsibilities that promote sexual fulfillment verses patterns that interfere with mutual intimacy in marriage for willing Chrisitan clients.
2 Outline how mutuality is necessary for long-lasting intimacy in a committed relationship and can be attained as each spouse takes responsibility to do his/her part and releases responsibility to the other for their part.
3 Explain how passion in marriage will only last if the couple focuses on pleasure and enjoyment, not responses or results.