My practice will continue operating virtually under all circumstances.
I work primarily with couples. My areas of interest in working with these populations are: recovery from infidelity, male sexual health, consensual nonmonogamy, same-sex relationship challenges, and other sexual health matters. I also understand the importance of how trauma can impact a relationship, and have incorporated the trauma-informed concepts into my practice. The goal is to help people move past physical and emotional challenges to have a satisfying relationships and pleasurable sex lives.
I consider much of my work Relationship Expectation Management challenges like those connected with infidelity, kink, ENM, and deployment. I do also provide relationship coaching strategies for dating, self-esteem, social skills and transitioning from divorce. I assist couples when there are problems with sexual dysfunctional, like libido problems caused by sexual trauma. The interventions I use are solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, and narrative. I assign homework and recommend specific readings, so that clients can engage in the personal development process. I believe that when you are a whole healthy person, you are able to contribute to a healthy relationship.
So what is "Sexual Health Coaching or Consultation"?
It's like any other consultation or coaching except it is limited to sexual health matters, and is non-diagnostic (meaning that there is no serious medical or mental health condition being addressed). Sexual health matters are treated by talking through experiences, worries, and feelings. Together with the therapist, the client works out coping mechanisms to help improve responses in the future to promote a healthier sex life.
What is the first session like?
During an initial appointment, the therapist reviews a set of both mental health and sexual health assessments with the client(s), and may talk with just one client or with the partner together. The therapist is there to guide and process current challenges. The assessments are done prior to the session.
What is the subsequent process for sex health?
The professional does not take one person's side or persuade anyone. Also, everyone will keep their clothes on. The sexual health professional will NOT be having sexual relations with anyone or showing anyone how to have sex. With each session, the sexologist will continue to push clients toward better management and acceptance of concerns that may be leading to sexual dysfunction. All interventions are both supportive and an educational. They are meant to provide comfort and encouragement for change. Clients will likely leave the sessions with assignments and work to do before the next appointment. It is non-diagnostic from a mental health perspective, and NOT COVERED BY INSURANCE or EAP (employee assistance program).
If the sexologist suspects the dysfunction is the result of a physical or nutritional concern, there may be a referral to a medical doctor, or dietitian. Other referral resources may also be suggested to assist in meeting therapeutic goals. There is collaboration with team members (i.e. Sexology Institute) to make sure that you get the best possible results. You may also be referred to a trauma specialist.
Training:
Gottman Institute (Communication skills)
Imago Therapy (Communiation skills)
Sex Hacker Pro, by Kenneth Play (Intimacy and Sexual Pleasure)
DomSubLiving, by Alessandra (BDSM and Relationship Power Dynamic)
BDSM, Consent, and the Law
Erotic Adventures at Play: Injuries, Medical Complications, and
Navigating Health Care Encounters (Kink safety)
Shibari Study (Kink safety)
Open Smarter, by Dr. Zhana (Consensual Non-monogamy)
Sex Coaching program with the Sexology Institute
Contemporary Treatment of Male Sexual Dysfunction
Sexual Attitude Reassessment training
PTSD and Sexuality
Regular collaboration with Dr. James Wadley, Ph.D. Licensed
Professional Counselor (PA & NJ)
Regular collaboration with Yana Tallon-Hicks, LMFT
Regular collaboration with Melissa Jones, Sexologist and Executive Director of the Sexology Institute
I lead monthly group discussions for the sex coaching students for case studies, and specialized topics associated with alternative lifestyles, sexual pleasure, ethical matters, etc.).