Sex Work is Work
Often referred to as “the world’s oldest profession,” sex work has been a controversial and misunderstood trade throughout human history. Sex workers face various forms of discrimination and life-threatening danger, compounded by the fact that many types of sex work remain criminalized in many countries. Without laws protecting their well-being, sex workers can become the victims of violence, abuse, hate crimes, and trafficking.
Supporting sex workers starts with embracing the reality in which these individuals live. We must be willing to question our assumptions, let go of our judgments, and learn the facts about sex work. Read more in our blog, Sex Work 101.
Support Group
Sex Worker Support Group
This online Zoom group is for current and retired *sex workers who are over 18 only. We share stories, support one another, problem solve and experience a safer space to express and explore needs. The space is sex positive, sex worker positive and also has space for people with any range of experiences within the industry.
Read more about the Sex Worker Support Group.
* Our definition of sex work includes phone sex, escorting, camming, sugaring, stripping, professional fetish/BDSM, other erotic labor.
Sex Worker Support: Reading, Resources, and Advocacy
We are proud to uplift our friends and colleagues who support and advocate for sex workers. Below are a few articles for clinicians about working with current/former sex workers, as well as links to external advocacy and support organizations.
For Current and Former Sex Workers
- Sex Workers Outreach Project Chicago (SWOP)
- Sex Worker Support Group, monthly online meetings
- National harm Reduction Coalition
- Pineapple Support: Mental health support
Advocacy
For Clinicians
- Equitable Care Certification
- Pederson, A. C., Stenersen, M. R., & Bridges, S. K. (2019). Toward Affirming Therapy: What Sex Workers Want and Need From Mental Health Providers. Journal of Humanistic Psychology, 0(0).
- Sawicki, D. A., Meffert, B. N., Read, K., & Heinz, A. J. (2019). Culturally Competent Health Care for Sex Workers: An Examination of Myths That Stigmatize Sex-Work and Hinder Access to Care. Sexual and relationship therapy : journal of the British Association for Sexual and Relationship Therapy, 34(3), 355–371.
Recent articles
View all sex work articles.
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