Ruth Westheimer’s interest in human sexuality stems from a brief term working at Planned Parenthood.
WESTFIELD – Her frankness, her distinctive voice and yes, even her size, may well have been among the reasons Dr. Ruth Westheimer caught the public’s attention.
She continues to be one of the most recognized people in the world – known simply as “Dr. Ruth” – when it comes to matters of sex and relationships, and she’s still doling out advice into her 80s.
The world-renowned psycho-sexual therapist, author and media personality will be back at Westfield State University for a return engagement in the school’s annual Distinguished Speaker Series.
Westheimer will speak on April 13 at the Woodward Center.
Dr. Ruth Westheimer embraces Westfield State University President Evan S. Dobelle during her 2008 visit to the campus. Twice named “College Lecturer of the Year” Westheimer frequently lectures at colleges and universities across the country. Her column “Ask Dr. Ruth” is published globally.
Westheimer’s interest in human sexuality stems from a brief term working at Planned Parenthood. After working there, Westheimer furthered her education by studying under pioneer sex therapist Dr. Helen Singer Kaplan at New York Hospital-Cornell University Medical Center.
Westheimer’s radio show “Sexually Speaking” was the first of its kind to allow viewers to call in and have their questions answered about sexual concerns. The show quickly became popular inspiring several other radio shows and television programs, including “The Dr. Ruth Show” on the Lifetime TV network.
Westheimer first lectured at Westfield State in December 2008 and was awarded an honorary doctor of humanities degree by president Evan S. Dobelle.
She is the author of 35 books including “Guide to Married Lovers and Sexuality-Encyclopedia.” She is currently serving as the honorary president of the Council on Sexuality and Aging at the National Sexuality Resource Center.
A native of Germany and a veteran of Israel’s Jewish Freedom Fighters, Westheimer moved to the U.S. and obtained a master’s degree in sociology from the Graduate Faculty of the New School of Science Research and a doctorate of education from Columbia University Teacher’s College.