I can help.
Want to experience more sexual pleasure and satisfaction? Are you concerned about your libido, desire, arousal, body image? Are you having an issue with sexual function such as erection, orgasm, pain during sex, or lubrication? Welcome to being a human! There’s nothing wrong with you and you’re not broken! Everyone has questions about sex, sexuality and sexual intimacy. These are integral parts of us that can be difficult to talk about. Sexual health incorporates all aspects of our sexuality including sexual interests, turn ons, erotic fantasy, relationship with our sexual selves, as well as STI risk, sexual identity, function and performance concerns, the list goes on. When we explore our sexuality, we understand ourselves in a holistic way. It offers an opportunity to more deeply connect with ourselves and our partners. I work with individuals and couples to navigate the often awkward, embarrassing and shaming conversations about sex.
Sex/Drug Linked Behavior, Chem/Sex Link
Have you ever used alcohol, marijuana, or other drugs to have sex? For some people this can be a pleasurable experience and for others it can be problematic and the only way they can have sex. People often have a complex relationship with chemical substance use and sex (chem/sex link or sex/drug linked behavior). Some people have sex while using alcohol or drugs because of a trauma history, shameful sexual and erotic interests, increased pleasure experience, abusive relationships, pain during sex, performance concerns, discomfort with body image, or disabilities (these are just a few). When this behavior is problematic, it interferes with our full understanding of sexuality.
Out of Control Sexual Behavior (OCSB)
Out of control sexual behavior (often referred to as sex addiction) is a term used to describe difficulty in regulating sexual behavior, thoughts, urges, and negative consequences. This can include porn or sexual imagery use, and other sexual behaviors that feel problematic or out of control. This is not a diagnostic term and is determined by the difficulty and distress in each individual’s life. Feelings of hopelessness can be overwhelming.
The Six Sexual Health Principles
The Six Sexual Health Principles, developed by Doug Braun-Harvey, offer us a guide in understanding, regulating, and managing our sexual behaviors, thoughts, and feelings. For more information, visit The Harvey Institute (https://www.theharveyinstitute.com/six-principles-of-sexual-health).
Consent
Non-exploitative
Honest
Shared Values
Protected from STI, HIV, and Unwanted Pregnancy
Pleasure
offering virtual and in-person sessions
I look forward to hearing from you! You're welcome to contact me, although I can't guarantee your confidentiality through email.