George W. Turner Jr.

Biography

As an academic-practitioner, Dr. George Turner’s research interests are focused on reducing health disparities by advancing sexual health equity. His line of inquiry is framed by an interest in how systems of privilege impact the intersection of race, class, ability, gender, and sexual orientation within sexual health.

In this pursuit, George seeks collaborative, interdisciplinary opportunities that investigate cross-cultural understandings, practice implications, and policy development. Dr. Tuner’s research is grounded in a feminist and emancipatory paradigm, guided by queer theory in an effort to disrupt the discourse and explain how prejudice and oppression are created, sustained, and impact marginalised communities.

George’s goal is to illuminate the lived experiences of disenfranchised groups. It is this curated storytelling of lived experiences where he hopes meaning is exposed where little or none existed. His current research has two lines of inquiry: 1) the examination of adults with intellectual disabilities and sexual voice, and 2) sexual health as a practice speciality within social work.

Prior to coming to joining Western Sydney University, 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. George has taught both undergraduate and graduate units including: Human Sexuality, Practice, Multicultural Practice, Psychopathology, Interfamilial Sexual Trauma, and Psychopathology. A certified sex therapist (AASECT), Dr. Turner operated a thriving private practice in Kansas City, MO. USA for fifteen years specializing in sexual health, personal wellness, and relationship enhancement. This and his background in non-profit administration inform his teaching best practices in direct clinical services. Dr. Turner routinely provided sexuality consultations to Kansas City hospitals including: Children’s Mercy, St. Luke’s, and KU Med speaking 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.