Presented by Evelyn A. Hunter, Ph.D.

Intimacy (including trust, openness, communication, and sexuality) is an important component of one’s relationships with self and others. Black/African American communities have unique expressions of intimacy that are culturally embedded in the many ways we engage in self-love, affectionate love, and romantic love. These cultural expressions of love in intimate relationships can be directly and indirectly impacted by multiple sclerosis. This presentation will provide an understanding of intimacy in the cultural context of Black/African American communities, as well as the corresponding emotional engagement that intimate partnerships require. Participants will learn about obstacles and strengths to developing intimacy in the context of multiple sclerosis.

Evelyn A. Hunter, Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Counseling Psychology
Auburn University
Department of Special Education, Rehabilitation, and Counseling
Owner, Auburn Psychological Wellness Center

Dr. Hunter is a Licensed Psychologist in the state of Alabama and received a BA in Psychology from Emory University and a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Auburn University. Prior to joining Auburn Psychological Wellness Center, she completed an internship in general and multicultural Psychology at the Georgia Institute of Technology and a post-doctoral fellowship in Health Psychology at North Main Counseling & Wellness/Premier Neurology. Her passion is to connect aspects of mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. In addition to clinical practice at Auburn Psychological Wellness Center, she is also an Associate Professor in Counseling Psychology.