EP146: Anime and Adolescent Wellness: Using Modern Media to Build Rapport and Assess Sexual Risk

NASW Social Work Talks Podcast

Anime and Adolescent Wellness: Using Modern Media to Build Rapport and Assess Sexual Risk with April Ferguson, LCSW-C, Senior Practice Associate: Children and Adolescents at NASW & Jermaine Wall, LICSW-S, JSOCC Owner of Crescent Counseling Services Sponsored by Illiois Department of Children and Family Services

Anime is often viewed as harmless entertainment, but some content can include explicit sexual themes that influence adolescent development and mental health. In this episode, we explore with our guest Jermaine Wall, LCSW-S,  owner of Crescent Counseling why social workers and mental health professionals should consider digital media use as part of assessment and treatment planning.

We also discuss the complex intersection of anime, sexual content, identity development, and clinical practice through a research-informed, clinically grounded perspective.

Learn why digital media should be part of comprehensive psychosocial assessments, how anime and other online content can shape adolescent behavior and development, and what social workers, therapists, counselors, psychologists, and other mental health professionals should consider when assessing risk and developing treatment plans.


July 15, 2026

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Show Notes:

Anime Awakening: A space where anime is more than entertainment. Exploring purpose, identity, relationships, and healing through the stories that connect us:  www.animeawakening.org

Anime Awakening Substack: animeawakening.substack.com

Anime & Sexual Behavior Questionnaire (ASBQ): A three-instrument suite designed to help trained professionals explore how anime and related media intersect with sexual behavior concerns in youth. Contact  ASBQ@CrescentCounselingAL.com 

Anime's Hidden Harms: A-Z resource guide for professionals, Available by request: Jwall@CrescentCounselingAL.com

Connect with our guest, Jermaine Wall, LCSW Owner of Crescent Counselingon LinkedIn: 
linkedin.com/in/jermainewalllcsw

Episode Sponsor

DCFS Illinois Department of Children and Family Services

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