Clinical Mental Health Counseling in New England student Kyoko Robertson has been appointed as the graduate student representative for the Association of Counseling, Sexology, and Sexual Wellness (ACSSW). ACSSW’s core mission is recognizing the significance of acknowledging sexuality as a universal human experience and striving to establish a unified perspective within the counseling field. Robertson is also a proud and honored member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
“Kyoko is an extraordinarily talented student and a passionate advocate for social justice, particularly concerning understanding and awareness in sexuality education and training, as well as improving access to mental health services for individuals who have been marginalized or disenfranchised due to their sexuality or sexual identity,” says Devona Stalnaker-Shofner, Associate Professor and Associate Chair of the CMHC program. “I am confident she will excel in her new role and continue to advocate for more inclusive education and training practices for counseling graduate students.”
While Robertson’s main background is in physical healthcare, her role as a Clinical Team Lead at Planned Parenthood ignited her passion for the intersection of sexuality and counseling. Her ultimate aspiration is to become a certified sex therapist upon completing her degree.
Robertson’s specific emphasis centers on addressing pleasure disparities within marginalized communities that are often left out of conversations about sexuality and sexual expression. These communities include sex workers, individuals with disabilities, drug users, survivors of sexual assault and violence, LGBTQIA+ communities, and BIPOC communities, with a particular emphasis on supporting Black women.