Dr. Turner is a lecturer at Western Sydney University in Community Welfare and Social Work. George teaches both undergraduate and graduate units. As a clinical social worker, George brings practice expertise to units such as: Human Sexuality, Practice, Multicultural Practice, Psychopathology, Interfamilial Sexual Trauma, and Psychopathology.
As a scientist-practitioner, George’s research interests are focused on collaborative, interdisciplinary opportunities that investigate cross-cultural understandings, practice implications, and policy development as it applies to the intersection of public health and sexuality specifically as it applies to women, chronic illness, body image, masculinity, individuals with intellectual disabilities, the LGBTQ community.
Awards
- 2015 Recipient: Pat B. Koch Award for Research Publication in Sexuality, Widener University
- 2012 Recipient: Outstanding Dissertation Award, Center for Education, Widener University
- 2012 Nominated: The William R. Stayton Award for Applied Leadership in Human Sexuality, Widener University
Prior Teaching
Dr. Turner was an Associate Professor of Practice at the University of Kansas School of Social Welfare (2013-16), and a visiting lecturer at Washburn University (2012-13) in the social work department.
Clinical Expertise
A certified sex therapist (AASECT), Dr. Turner operated a thriving private practice, Turner Professional Group, in Kansas City, MO. USA for fifteen years specializing in sexual health, personal wellness, and relationship enhancement. Dr. Turner’s work in classrooms, boardrooms, community centers, and media seeks to alleviate sexual health disparities. He delivers sex positive, medically accurate, comprehensive, age-appropriate sex education to individuals, couples, families and communities.
Dr. Turner has provided sexuality consultations to hospitals including: Children’s Mercy, St. Luke’s, and KU Med speaking (Kansas City, USA) to their psychiatry, OBGYN and urology departments on topics such as intersexuality, female sexual pain, and taking a sexual history. Additionally, George was a frequent speaker at non-profits such as PFLAG, the MS Society, KU Cancer Center, as well as graduate psychology and counseling programs.
Education
George earned a Doctorate of Education and MEd in Human Sexuality with a concentration in Sex Therapy from Widener University, as well as a Masters in Social Work from the University of Kansas. George has worked in social service non-profit agencies as a school counselor for youth, geriatric behavioural health counselor, Executive Director supporting individuals in recovery, and Program Director for adults with intellectual disabilities.
Personal
As a first-generation college student, Dr. Turner is also committed to mentoring individuals from marginalized communities and helping them navigate successfully through the Academy. George is a native of Kansas City, Missouri, USA. He enjoys running, time with family and travel.