260: Benefits of Reading Erotica with Avalon Lust

Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastSpecial Collections of the podcast:Increasing Desire EpisodesEroticism and Excitement EpisodesMy Favorite AuthorsHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: How to make sex easy and fun for both of you: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman discusses the impact of written erotica on mental stimulation and sexual desire with her guest, erotic author Avalon Lust. Avalon shares her journey from writing romance to focusing on erotica, and how it helped rejuvenate her own libido. They explore the benefits of erotica for individuals and couples, including mental visualization, tapping into fantasies, and offering quick yet engaging reads. Avalon also provides insights on where to find quality erotica and her process of creating stories that cater to different fantasies. The episode offers valuable advice for anyone looking to spice up their intimate life through the power of the written word.00:00 Welcome to Better Sex00:43 Introduction to Erotica with Avalon Lust01:22 Avalon's Journey into Writing Erotica05:11 Benefits of Erotica for Relationships09:56 Exploring Fantasies Through Erotica14:51 Where to Find and Explore Erotica18:23 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsInterested in the quiz? https://www.sexlifequiz.comBio:Meet Lust, the provocative name behind scorching hot erotica that ignites passion and desire.With a focus on short, tantalizing reads, Lust's stories are crafted to arouse and captivate, perfect for those seeking to spice up their intimate moments. But beware, these tales come with a trigger warning, ensuring readers are prepared for the steamy journey ahead. So, whether you're indulging alone or with a partner, dive into Lust's world and let your imagination run wild. Now, ENJOY!Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastSpecial Collections of the podcast:Increasing Desire EpisodesEroticism and Excitement EpisodesMy Favorite AuthorsHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: How to make sex easy and fun for both of you: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman interviews sex therapist Indigo Stray Conger about the impacts of anxiety on sexual experiences. They delve into the common sexual concerns clients bring, such as libido discrepancies, erection issues, and orgasm control, and explore how anxiety can exacerbate these problems. Indigo shares her expertise on using somatic, body-based approaches to manage and alleviate anxiety, emphasizing the importance of breathwork, mindfulness, and creating awareness of subtle pleasure cues. The discussion also touches on the significance of sexual health for overall well-being, the cultural taboos surrounding conversations about sex, and strategies for enhancing intimate connections with partners.00:00 Welcome to Better Sex00:46 Introduction to Anxiety in Sex01:31 Guest Interview: Indigo Stray Conger03:27 Common Sexual Concerns and Anxiety06:26 Somatic Approaches to Anxiety10:20 Practical Exercises for Couples15:03 Breathing Techniques for Relaxation21:13 The Importance of Sexual Pleasure22:40 Cultural and Educational Barriers24:55 Conclusion and ResourcesInterested in the special podcast collections? https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/collectionsBioIndigo has been a psychotherapist since 2008 and has over a decade of therapeutic training, including as one of the few AASECT certified sex therapists at a supervisory level. She trained as a therapist in San Francisco, a mecca for awakened sexuality and alternative lifestyles, before moving back to her hometown of Denver and co-founding Mile High Psychotherapy PLLC with her husband. Indigo holds a master’s degree in somatic (body integrated) psychotherapy. She addresses mental health and relational dynamics from the perspective of our embodied selves, utilizing applied neuroscience and mindfulness practices to soften protective defenses and re-inhabit physicality. Utilizing an attachment theory lens, Indigo guides her clients towards reclaiming the space between them as joyful and exciting. She is frequently consulted as a sexuality and open relationship expert in publications such as Women's Health, Mind Body Green, and The New York Times.facebook.com/MileHighPsychotherapy, website: milehighpsychotherapy.comwww.choosingtherapy.comWant to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastSpecial Collections of the podcast:Increasing Desire EpisodesEroticism and Excitement EpisodesMy Favorite AuthorsHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: How to make sex easy and fun for both of you: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

In this episode of Better Sex with host Jessa Zimmerman, sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman interviews Dr. Irwin Goldstein to discuss Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder (PGAD). They explore the history, symptoms, and numerous potential causes of PGAD, ranging from physiological to neurological issues. They also delve into various diagnostic methods and treatment options available for managing this often misunderstood and debilitating condition.00:00 Introduction00:42 Interview with Dr. Irwin Goldstein01:03 Understanding PGAD05:17 Initial Approaches to Treatment07:05 New Discoveries in PGAD Research22:08 Success Stories and Challenges30:13 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationInterested in Desire Discrepancy resources: https://www.desirediscrepancy.comIrwin Goldstein, MDDr. Goldstein has been involved with sexual dysfunction research since the late 1970's. He has authored more than 350 publications as well as multiple book chapters and edited 6 textbooks in the field. His interests include penile microvascular bypass surgery, surgery for dyspareunia, sexual health management post cancer treatment, genital dysesthesia/persistent genital arousal disorder, physiologic investigation of sexual function in men and women, and diagnosis and treatment of sexual dysfunction in men and women. Dr. Goldstein is Director of Sexual Medicine at Alvarado Hospital, Clinical Professor of Surgery at University of California, San Diego and practices medicine at San Diego Sexual Medicine. He is also Editor-in-Chief of Sexual Medicine Reviews and past Editor of The Journal of Sexual Medicine. He is a Past President of the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health and of the Sexual Medicine Society of North America. He holds a degree in engineering from Brown University and received his medical degree from McGill University. The World Association for Sexual Health awarded the Gold Medal to Dr. Goldstein in 2009 in recognition of his lifelong contributions to the field, in 2012 he received the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health Award for Distinguished Service in Women’s Sexual Health, in 2013 he received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Sexual Medicine Society of North America, and in 2014 he received the ISSM Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Society for Sexual Medicine. He is happily married to his college sweetheart Sue, and together they have three children and five grandchildren.Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastSpecial Collections of the podcast:Increasing Desire EpisodesEroticism and Excitement EpisodesMy Favorite AuthorsHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: How to make sex easy and fun for both of you: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman welcomes Ari Lewis to discuss the often conflated topics of consensual non-monogamy and compulsive sexual behavior. They delve into the misconceptions and stereotypes surrounding consensual non-monogamy, such as its conflation with sexual addiction and the perceived elevated risk of STIs. Ari explains the important distinctions between consensual non-monogamy and compulsive sexual behavior, highlighting key factors like informed consent, honoring values, mutual respect, and mutual benefit. The conversation also touches on coercive non-monogamy and the role of shame in driving compulsive sexual behavior, concluding with a proposed model for understanding and treating such behaviors.00:00 Introduction to Better Sex Podcast00:49 Exploring Consensual Non-Monogamy with Ari Lewis01:34 Distinguishing Non-Monogamy from Compulsive Sexual Behavior01:52 Ari Lewis on Personal Journey and Professional Insights11:07 Common Misconceptions and Stereotypes16:54 Coercive Non-Monogamy and Its Implications26:05 Understanding and Treating Compulsive Sexual Behavior32:31 Conclusion and Contact InformationWant to work with Jessa? https://www.intimacywithease.comBio:Ari Lewis, M.A.P.P., M.A., Ed.M., LMHC, is a licensed psychotherapist in NYC; an associate at the Sexuality, Attachment, and Trauma Project; and an adjunct professor of social work at Touro University. He earned a Master of Applied Positive Psychology (M.A.P.P.) studying positive sexuality at the University of Pennsylvania, and he earned two master's degrees in mental health counseling at Columbia University, where he also earned an Advanced Certificate in Sexuality, Women, and Gender focused on consensual non-monogamy. Ari has a chapter on treating compulsive sexual behavior coming out in the Routledge Handbook of Positive Sexuality, and his essay on distinguishing consensual non-monogamy from compulsive sexual behavior will be featured as part of the 2nd edition to Kathy Labriola's book, Love in Abundance. Ari has trained for over three years on working with compulsive sexual behavior under Dr. Michael M. Crocker, DSW, founder of the Sexuality, Attachment, and Trauma Project in New York City.Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastSpecial Collections of the podcast:Increasing Desire EpisodesEroticism and Excitement EpisodesMy Favorite AuthorsHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: How to make sex easy and fun for both of you: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastSpecial Collections of the podcast:Increasing Desire EpisodesEroticism and Excitement EpisodesMy Favorite AuthorsHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: How to make sex easy and fun for both of you: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman is joined by Dr. Steven Radowitz, a primary care doctor and ketamine clinic practitioner. They delve into the use of psychedelic drugs, particularly ketamine, in therapy and how it can positively impact mental health and relationships. Dr. Radowitz discusses how psychedelics help treat mental health conditions, the science behind ketamine's effectiveness, and the potential for its future use. He also explains the importance of integration and proper settings for these treatments, and how they can lead to profound personal and relational growth.00:00 Welcome to Better Sex00:42 Introducing Psychedelic Therapy00:58 Meet Dr. Steven Radowitz01:11 The Power of Psychedelics in Mental Health04:46 Ketamine: The Legal Psychedelic05:13 How Ketamine Works07:38 Applications of Ketamine Therapy10:32 The Future of Mental Health Treatment18:32 Ketamine and Relationships21:20 The Psychedelic Experience26:16 Accessing Ketamine Therapy31:19 Other Psychedelics on the Horizon34:29 Conclusion and Contact InformationWant to take the quiz - How big a problem is my sex life?https://www.sexlifequiz.comBio:Starting his career in New York during the peak of the opioid and AIDS crises, Dr. Steven Radowitz has a wealth of experience seeing the effects trauma and addiction can have on our physical health. Dr. Radowitz joined Nushama, at the intersection of science and spirituality, to oversee and develop treatment modalities. He believes psychedelic medicine’s framework of neuroscience, mystical experience, and integration therapy is the future of mental wellness, and current solutions often fall short, treating symptoms without addressing underlying issues. Known for his compassion, yet unafraid to be controversial, Dr. Radowitz sees the source of disease as a “dis-ease” that results from a misalignment of mind, body and spirit. He has a passion for preventive medicine, getting to the root of a health problem before it manifests. In contrast to traditional medicine, he views psychedelics as powerful tools to help us become aware of the origin of imbalance and guide us toward wholeness, health, and wellbeing, healing from within. He and the Nushama team have administered more than 10,000 ketamine journeys for mood disorders and are known to be best-in-class and most experienced globally.In addition to Nushama’s ketamine-assisted therapy protocol for mood disorders, he leads Ketamine for the Reduction of Alcohol Relapse (KARE), an innovative, highly efficacious protocol that clinical studies have shown to be 86% effective. Nushama’s team is the first to bring this revolutionary treatment to New York City, using the power of psychedelics to transform addictive behaviors. Prior, Dr. Radowitz worked at St. Vincent’s NYC Midtown medical center, where he was medical director of the inpatient alcohol and opiate detox and treatment unit. With a history of being part of the solution, he has been a DEA-licensed provider for buprenorphine maintenance treatment for opiate dependence for over a decade. He most recently co-authored the largest IV ketamine for PTSD study to date — available as a preprint and pending peer review. The landmark findings make the case for a psychedelic therapy paradigm as 75% of participants gained clinically meaningful improvements and 61% showed remission of symptoms.Coming from a sheltered Montreal community, Dr. Radowitz was not raised with a spiritual background but felt something was missing. Upon moving to New York, he explored the city’s culture and nightlife on a journey to expand his consciousness—the study of Kabbalah, Jewish mysticism, transcendental meditation, and various forms of yoga resonated deeply. After seeing significant improvement in some of his patients who chose to explore psychedelics for different medical and psychiatric conditions, he witnessed their profound transformation, serendipitously meeting Co-Founder Jay Godfrey and Richard Meloff, who invited him to join Nushama.Dr. Radowitz has been practicing internal medicine since 1998. He currently mentors master’s students attending the Columbia School of Social Work interning at Nushama for their field practicum, and prior, he supervised Columbia medical students and residents. He completed his Bachelor of Science in Anatomy and Cell Biology from McGill University and his medical degree at The Chicago Medical School with an internal medicine residency at Rush University Medical Center. Before Nushama, Dr. Radowitz also ran the primary care program at a number of top-tier investment banks for more than 10 years and held a private practice specializing in general medicine, HIV care, and preventive medicine. Overall, he saw the connection between chronic stress and health and wanted to make a difference, leading to his career transition to psychedelic medicine.Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastSpecial Collections of the podcast:Increasing Desire EpisodesEroticism and Excitement EpisodesMy Favorite AuthorsHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: How to make sex easy and fun for both of you: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

Join host Jessa Zimmerman on the Better Sex podcast as she converses with Dr. Ashley Staats about the challenges of maintaining intimacy after the birth of a child, particularly the first baby. The discussion dives into common myths, like the six-week readiness period, and details the emotional and physical complexities that couples face. They explore how to foster communication, manage expectations, and the significance of mutual support and understanding during this transformative life stage. The episode is packed with personal stories, expert advice, and practical strategies to help couples sustain a healthy intimate relationship post-childbirth.00:00 Introduction to Better Sex Podcast00:45 Guest Introduction: Ashley Staats on Sex After Birth01:08 The Myth of the Six-Week Window01:32 Ashley Staats's Journey into Sex Therapy03:10 Challenges of Sex After First Baby04:34 Impact of Birth Experience on Intimacy09:27 Role Changes and Communication Post-Baby13:55 Maintaining Intimacy and Connection26:00 Encouragement and Seeking Help29:34 Conclusion and ResourcesWant my special podcast collections?https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/collectionsBio:After years of dedicated work in private practice, Ashley Blu Staats, PhD and Certified Sex Therapist, recognized a growing need for high-quality sex therapy education and training. This realization led her to establish TalkSex Institute, a place where aspiring sex therapists can receive comprehensive, expert-level education to make a real difference in the lives of their clients.At TalkSex Institute, we're committed to providing top-tier education that positively impacts the field of sex therapy and mental health counseling at large.Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastSpecial Collections of the podcast:Increasing Desire EpisodesEroticism and Excitement EpisodesMy Favorite AuthorsHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: How to make sex easy and fun for both of you: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

In this episode of Better Sex, host Jessa Zimmerman speaks with Dr. Saida Désilets about women's sexual pleasure and the idea of sexual sovereignty. Dr. Désilets shares her personal journey starting from childhood, discussing the impacts of trauma, the cultural stigmas around female pleasure, and the importance of creating a safe space within one's own body. They delve into the physiological benefits of pleasure, breathing techniques, and practices to enhance sensual and sexual wellbeing. Listeners are provided with actionable tips to connect more deeply with their bodies and embrace their own sexual sovereignty.00:00 Introduction to Better Sex Podcast00:47 Interview with Dr. Saida Désilets01:32 Understanding Women's Sexual Pleasure03:20 The Impact of Trauma on Sexuality10:29 Exploring Sexual Sovereignty27:58 Practical Tips for Connecting with Your Body35:39 Conclusion and ResourcesWant Jessa's resources for either the higher or lower desire partner? https://www.desirediscrepancy.comBio:Dr. Saida Désilets wants to live in a world filled with audacious, sexually sovereign people, living life on their own terms. As a TEDx speaker, researcher, counter-culture creatrix, body-philosopher, and author, her work has touched the lives of millions globally. Dr. Saida's innovative approach to PsychoSexuality, desire, and pleasure invites both the public and professionals to better understand the importance of accessing their erotic genius. Her medically-endorsed method integrates somatic awareness, neural and cellular re-patterning and robust reframes of sensuality and sex which all work in harmony to support the erotic individuation process. This work is an essential part of a medical protocol to support sexual optimization as well as part of the BrainTap App. When not researching or creating transformational programs, Dr. Saida enjoys leading Wilderness Safaris in South Africa and swimming in the Aegean Sea.Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastSpecial Collections of the podcast:Increasing Desire EpisodesEroticism and Excitement EpisodesMy Favorite AuthorsHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: How to make sex easy and fun for both of you: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

In this episode, the host talks with Michael Crocker, Sean Peknic, and Ari Lewis from the Sexuality Attachment and Trauma Project (SAT Project) about issues related to shame, sex, and addiction. The discussion begins with introductions, highlighting their roles and the objectives of the SAT Project. The conversation delves into how they prefer the term 'out of control sexual behavior' over 'sex addiction,' focusing on promoting healthy relationships with one's sexuality rather than advocating for sobriety. They explore the impact of shame on individuals' sexual behaviors, the importance of addressing attachment trauma, and the role of curiosity in therapy. The episode also discusses societal impacts on sexual behavior, the influence of technology, and the nuances in gender responses to sexual issues. Finally, they touch on how partnerships often influence individuals seeking help and emphasize a de-shaming, harm-reduction approach that treats people, not problems.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions01:48 Understanding Out of Control Sexual Behavior13:03 The Role of Shame in Sexual Behavior20:42 Exploring the Cycle of Shame and Sexual Behavior25:36 Impact of Background and Upbringing28:26 Understanding Shame and Neglect in Sexual Behavior29:23 Empathy and Solutions for Shame-Driven Behaviors30:27 Exploring Definitions of Shame and Addiction31:11 Cultural and Religious Influences on Sexuality33:54 The Role of Technology in Sexual Behavior40:17 Fantasy vs. Behavior: Navigating Sexual Interests44:10 Gender Differences in Sexual Behavior50:13 Attachment Styles and Sexual Behavior52:21 Couples Therapy and Sexual Behavior56:40 Conclusion and Contact InformationWant to work with Jessa? https://www.intimacywithease.comBios:Michael Crocker, DSW, LCSW, MA As Founder and Clinical Director of the Sexuality, Attachment, and Trauma Project, Michael is a passionate advocate for shame reduction when treating out-of-control sexual behavior. At The SAT Project, they don’t judge or pathologize the sexual behavior of patients. His extensive research in childhood trauma informs his work with clients, as he has seen firsthand how emotional neglect impacts sexual behavior and relationships in adulthood. Trauma robs us of choice.Michael helps clients discover (or, sometimes, rediscover) their connection to joy, play, and intimacy. Shaun Peknic, MSW, MA Psychology Shaun is a therapist and the SAT Project’s Director responsible for client intake, staffing, operations, and educational programs for clinicians. He wears many hats and enjoys them all. For twenty years, Shaun explored the human condition onstage as a theatre director, developing work about queer identity, family trauma, and the subconscious. Now, he supports clients as they tell their own stories offstage. Learning to communicate needs effectively is essential in all partnerships. Shaun brings a deep knowledge of storytelling, communication, and relationship-building into work with individuals, couples, groups, and creative teams.Ari Lewis, M.A.P.P., M.A., Ed.M., LMHC, is a licensed psychotherapist in NYC; an associate at the Sexuality, Attachment, and Trauma Project; and an adjunct professor of social work at Touro University. He earned a Master of Applied Positive Psychology (M.A.P.P.) studying positive sexuality at the University of Pennsylvania, and he earned two master's degrees in mental health counseling at Columbia University, where he also earned an Advanced Certificate in Sexuality, Women, and Gender focused on consensual non-monogamy. Ari has a chapter on treating compulsive sexual behavior coming out in the Routledge Handbook of Positive Sexuality, and his essay on distinguishing consensual non-monogamy from compulsive sexual behavior will be featured as part of the 2nd edition to Kathy Labriola's book, Love in Abundance. Ari has trained for over three years on working with compulsive sexual behavior under Dr. Michael M. Crocker, DSW, founder of the Sexuality, Attachment, and Trauma Project in New York City.play assessment https://thesatproject.typeform.com/to/Sd2CbXuCWant to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastSpecial Collections of the podcast:Increasing Desire EpisodesEroticism and Excitement EpisodesMy Favorite AuthorsHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: How to make sex easy and fun for both of you: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass