Healing Sols Podcast

This episode was previously recorded for “Mormon Sex Info” and is being refurbished here for your enjoyment. This is a conversation between prominent LDS therapists about the upcoming membership council Natasha Helfer is facing this weekend (April 18, 2021). To help keep Mormon Sex Info going past 2021, please donate at mormonsex.info.

This podcast episode was originally recorded for "Mormon Sex Info" Podcast. It's now being refurbished for your enjoyment here at the "Healing Sols Podcast." For more from Natasha Helfer, LCMFT, CST, CSTS, please visit https://www.natashahelfer.com. Natasha Helfer Parker interviews Aimee Heffernan, LMFT in regards to achieving what can at times seem like the elusive female orgasm. They cover all types of topics from psychological aspects that can get in the way of climax, to specific techniques that women and their partners can find helpful. What ruts can we get stuck in either in regards to sexual practice or sexual meaning? How does self-pleasure and self-exploration begin a self knowledge that can translate to orgasmic potential? How can using a vibrator help achieve orgasm? Does the G-Spot exist? What about multiple orgasms? What is squirting? How do we improve our communication skills around these types of conversations? Aimee Heffernan grew up in Salt Lake City in a very open-minded, unorthodox, feminist, Mormon home. She was raised with the beautiful aspects of Mormon theology balanced with the nuance and complicated parts church history. Aimee attended Western Washington University in Bellingham, WA before she went on her mission to Sendai, Japan. She graduated from the University of Utah with a degree in Sociology and with a masters degree from Seattle Pacific University in Marriage and Family Therapy. Aimee has a private practice in Redmond, WA, where she specializes in relationships, infidelity, sexuality, faith/spirituality crisis and transitions, mixed faith marriages, women's issues, self-esteem and identity. She is a trained educator for the Gottman Bringing Baby Home program. She is currently working towards becoming a certified sex therapist through AASECT. Aimee has presented for the NW Chapter of the Multiple Sclerosis Society, local schools, more church functions than she can count, and enjoys speaking about mental, emotional, and sexual health. Resources mentioned during the podcast: My Official Stance on Masturbation blog post by Natasha Helfer Parker How Can I Go to the Temple if I'm Still Masturbating blog post by Natasha Helfer Parker Kristin Hodson featured on Episode 1: Porn Addiction: Is It Real? LDS Female Sexuality with Jennifer Finlayson-Fife on Mormon Mental Health Podcast OMGYES Kinsey Institute Sex + w/ Laci Green Sexplantions with Dr. Doe Lovers Blue Boutique located in Salt Lake City Sex toy called Double Trouble Other Resources: Sex Smart Films: Promoting Sexual Literacy The Clitoris: A Complete Sex Guide Babeland

For more from Natasha, please visit: natashahelfer.com. Natasha Helfer interviews Michael and Carla Sommerfeld in regards to their experiences offering sexual education classes within religious/faith communities.   You can reach out to Michael and Carla here:   https://www.facebook.com/michael.sommerfeld.90   Or here:   https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/therapists/michael-sommerfeld-edmonton-ab/486518   To help keep Mormon Sex Info going past 2021, please donate at mormonsex.info.

For more from Natasha, please visit: natashahelfer.com. Natasha Helfer and Kristin Bennion discuss their concerns about what has been happening in the nation with the rise of conspiracy theories and their dangers from a psychological perspective. "The ‘Shared Psychosis' of Donald Trump and His Loyalists" https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/the-shared-psychosis-of-donald-trump-and-his-loyalists/?fbclid=IwAR2fwhFtvUalzsAQ8B5nKgK4_5XdgHLsbdA6Q8SWXtvn8_TxIzC7z9Uuqro For more on Kristin, you can visit: https://www.intimateconnectionscounseling.com/about/

On this episode of the Healing Sols Podcast, Natasha is joined by Sarah Bridges, a certified lactation counselor and founder of "Latch On, Latch Off." She has her own YouTube channel where she offers support to the many tricky aspects of being a parent of an infant:   https://www.youtube.com/.../UCOhcEuIjMmntSJoaE2g0isQ/about   Sarah describes many of the common challenges, misinformation and pressure/expectations that can cause unnecessary pain, self-blame, and relational/sexual problems. She does a lovely job of interweaving her own challenges and vulnerabilites as she faced being a new mother and offers some good suggestions on how to get the information and support needed to heal and empower yourself as a parent or a couple in regards to the very common life stage of "after the baby." Sarah offers online breastfeeding classes and other resources and can be reached at:   https://latchonlatchoff.wixsite.com/website   or latchonlatchoff@gmail.com   Great listen... please share with those you know may need support in this time of life which can be equally beautiful/difficult.   For more from Natasha, please visit: https://www.natashahelfer.com

This podcast episode was originally recorded for "Mormon Sex Info" Podcast. It's now being refurbished for your enjoyment here at the "Healing Sols Podcast." For more from Natasha Helfer, LCMFT, CST, CSTS, please visit https://www.natashahelfer.com. Natasha Helfer Parker interviews Dr. David Ley, author of The Myth of Sex Addiction, regarding the problems with the sex addiction treatment model and the conversations we should be having instead. He states that not only is this type of modality erroneous, but dangerous. They cover such issues as: How do shifting attitudes about sexuality force us to renegotiate how we see and define healthy sexuality? Why is sexual diversity easily pathologized? Why is it that there is not a single published study that sex addiction treatment makes a difference and yet treatment centers are growing in number at an alarming rate? Why are we abandoning people within a moral or social crisis, by focusing on things like a supposed pornography public health crisis? Are we aware that gay and bi men are three times as likely to be called “sex addicts?” Are we aware that the American Psychiatric Association has rejected the language of “sex addiction” for 40 years? Are we talking about the importance of sex education and regular dialogue? How can we help people explore morality in their sexuality as adults? How do we incorporate religious beliefs in ways that allow for normative sexuality? Dr. David Ley is a clinical psychologist in practice in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Philosophy from Ole Miss, and his Master's and Doctoral degrees in clinical psychology from the University of New Mexico. Dr. Ley is the Executive Director of New Mexico Solutions, a large outpatient mental health and substance abuse program in Albuquerque, NM. Dr. Ley has been treating sexuality issues throughout his career. He first began treating perpetrators and victims of sexual abuse, but expanded his approach to include the fostering and promotion of healthy sexuality, and awareness of the wide range of normative sexual behaviors. Insatiable Wives: Women Who Stray and the Men Who Love Them is his first book and won a Silver Medal in the Foreword Magazine Book of the Year contest for 2009. Dr. Ley wrote Insatiable Wives following two years of interviews with couples around the country. His controversial second book, The Myth of Sex Addiction was released in March 2012. Resources mentioned during the podcast: Defining “Normophilic” and “Paraphilic” Sexual Fantasies in a Population-Based Sample: On the Importance of Considering Subgroups by Christian Joyal Jason Winters (2010) published three studies on sex addiction, demonstrating that alleged sex addicts have as much (or as little) sexual self-control as anyone else, and that the identity of sex addict is predicated by a religious upbringing. Grubbs, Hook, Griffin and Davis (2015) published a review of the paucity of outcome data on sex addiction treatment in Current Addiction Reports. Work of Dr. Rory Reid Work of Stulhofer The Religious Institute

This podcast episode was originally recorded for "Mormon Sex Info" Podcast. It's now being refurbished for your enjoyment here at the "Healing Sols Podcast." For more from Natasha Helfer, LCMFT, CST, CSTS, please visit https://www.natashahelfer.com. Natasha Helfer Parker interviews Dr. Gina Ogden, PhD, LMFT on one of the most common complaints that get brought to sex therapists: low female sexual desire. Gina shares years of experience where she helps us ask pivotal questions to break this construct apart. What is it that we desire? Do women give themselves permission to experience pleasure? Gina instructs on her 4-dimensional model approach to what she calls the Integrative Wheel of Sexual Experience – where we delve into Body, Mind, Heart and Spirit. Walking through these four dimensions is an approach that allows one to take a holistic approach to such things as libido or erotic differences in partnerships. Gina has agreed to return to Mormon Sex Info for a “part 2” of this in-depth conversation of what it means to delve into the erotic space of desire. Gina Ogden is an award-winning sex therapist, family therapist, researcher, teacher, and author. She is founder of the Relational Sexuality Network, an international collaboration of practitioners whose mission is to expand the practice of therapy and sex therapy beyond limiting notions of function and dysfunction to include a wide range of diversity and experience. She conducts retreats and trainings internationally, lectures widely, leads tele-seminars attended by professionals all over the world, and has appeared in the media from talk radio to the Oprah Winfrey Show. She supervises and trains sex therapists, physicians, nurses, social workers, family therapists, and other health providers in the Four-Dimensional Wheel approach, to broaden their understanding of sexual experience. She conducted the only nationwide survey on integrating sexuality and spirituality. She is the author of ten books so far. Her most recent books for a general readership (all published by Trumpeter) are: The Return of Desire (2008) and The Heart & Soul of Sex (2006). The 3rd edition of Women Who Love Sex, was published in 2007. Her books for a professional readership (all published by Routledge) are: Expanding the Practice of Sex Therapy: An Integrative Model for Exploring Desire and Intimacy, (2012) and Extraordinary Sex Therapy: Creative Approaches for Clinician (2015)—an edited collection of innovative and creative approaches from colleagues in the US and the UK. Her 4-D Wheel workbook for clinicians is : Exploring Desire & Intimacy: Innovative Approaches, Practical Applications–due in September, 2016. Links to resources that are covered during the podcast: Lessons From Women Who Love Sex – Poster graciously offered by Gina Ogden The Return of Desire: A Guide to Rediscovering your Sexual Passion by Gina Ogden Exploring Desire & Intimacy: Innovative Approaches, Practical Applications (due out in September of 2016) Kristin Hodson of the Healing Group and author of Real Intimacy: A Couples Guide for Genuine, Healthy Sexuality The Chalice and the Blade: Our History, Our Future by Riane Eisler

This podcast episode was originally recorded for "Mormon Sex Info" Podcast. It's now being refurbished for your enjoyment here at the "Healing Sols Podcast." For more from Natasha Helfer, LCMFT, CST, CSTS, please visit https://www.natashahelfer.com. Natasha Helfer Parker interviews Alisha Worthington, SSW, a sexual educator, on the topic of providing healthy sexual education to our pre-adolescent children. How do we approach sexuality of children without projecting our own adult sensibilities? What do we teach about sexuality without even realizing it? What are the best ways to respond to things like masturbation/self-touch, pornography viewing, and experiences such as “playing doctor?” How do we talk to our kids about their body parts? How do we teach protective stances and boundaries, especially when it comes to the potential of child sexual abuse? How do we avoid shaming/fear-based sex education and embrace pleasure-based sex education, even when we want to reinforce concepts such as consent, appropriate boundaries and the risks associated with sexuality? And much more…. Alisha Worthington is an LDS Sexual Educator and has contributed to many media resources such as: FamilyShare.com and The Deseret News. She has been a regular contributor on the Radio From Hell show on x96 taking live calls on sex and intimacy and has been a guest on KUTV 2 morning news. She is an educator, group facilitator, and coach for The Healing Group, where she offers many workshops and services regarding women's health and sexuality, and co-author of the book Real Intimacy: A Couple's Guide to Healthy, Genuine Sexuality. She is also a member of the Mormon Mental Health Association. Links to resources that are covered during the podcast: Elizabeth Smart Foundation: Mission focused on preventing and stopping predatory crimes. Yes! You can talk to your kids about sex by Kristin Hodson and Alisha Worthington A Parent's Guide an LDS Manual Teaching Youths in the 21st Century by Elder M. Russell Ballard The Naked People in Your iPod by Paul Malan Where Willie Went by Nicholas Allan It's Perfectly Normal: Changing Bodies, Growing Up, Sex and Sexual Health by Robbie Harris and Michael Emberley For Goodness Sex by Al Vernacchio

This podcast episode was originally recorded for "Mormon Sex Info" Podcast. It's now being refurbished for your enjoyment here at the "Healing Sols Podcast." For more from Natasha Helfer, LCMFT, CST, CSTS, please visit https://www.natashahelfer.com. Natasha Helfer Parker interviews Shannon Hickman, LCSW, CST, an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, on the topic of understanding premature (or early or rapid) ejaculation. What is the diagnostic criteria for PE? Do people know how long most sexual experiences last? What types of myths and misconceptions abound about sexual expectations and what it means to have a successful sexual encounter that affect people's perspective about penile performance? What contributes to PE? What types of treatment can be helpful for PE? What role can the spouse play in treatment? What role does physiology play versus psychology? Shannon Hickman is a licensed clinical social worker with 12 years of experience in a variety of disciplines. She has worked in a variety of group and individual settings, including hospitals, clinics, and drug and alcohol treatment facilities, and now runs a private practice in Murray, Utah. Shannon is focused on individual and couples counseling as well as sex therapy. She received her undergraduate degree in 2004 in social work from the University of Utah and went on to receive her masters degree in social work in 2006 from Rutger's University. Links to resources that are covered during the podcast: DSM 5 International Society for Sexual Medicine She Comes First: The Thinking Man's Guide to Pleasuring a Woman by Ian Kerner Guide to Getting It On by Paul Joannides Stephanie Buehler author of Sex, Love and Mental Illness: A Couple's Guide to Staying Connected and A Heart-Pounding Guide to Passionate Sex Sensate Focus Sensate Focus Exercise: Non-Sexual Intimacy Flesh Light Product (some may find this site offensive) Coping with Premature Ejaculation: How to Overcome PE, Please Your Partner and Have Great Sex by Barry McCarthy and Michael Metz

For more from Natasha, please visit: https://www.natashahelfer.com

Natasha is joined by Dr. Jennifer Finlayson-Fife on this episode of Healing Sols Podcast. Dr. Finlayson-Fife was trained by the late Dr. David Schnarch so they discuss his methods and trainings, how he took what Murray Bowen taught with his Bowen theory and translated into the field of sexuality, and sex and anxiety. Natasha and Dr. Finlayson-Fife also discuss his 4 points of being well differentiated/balanced. For more on Dr. Jennifer Finlayson-Fife, you can visit her website:  https://www.finlayson-fife.com For more from Natasha, please visit: https://www.natashahelfer.com

For more from Natasha Helfer, LCMFT, CST, CSTS, including other solution focused tips, please visit https://www.natashahelfer.com.

This podcast episode was originally recorded for "Mormon Sex Info" Podcast. It's now being refurbished for your enjoyment here at the "Healing Sols Podcast." For more from Natasha Helfer, LCMFT, CST, CSTS, please visit https://www.natashahelfer.com. Natasha Helfer Parker interviews Richard and Lawrence Siegel, in the continuing discussion of why the framing of sexual issues as addiction is problematic. What are the neurological/medical explanations currently taking place within the sexual field? What are the diagnostic implications? What is the research that has been happening for the last 20 years on these issues? Is research interpreted and applied correctly? What do many of the terms being thrown around even mean? And can evidence-based/peer-reviewed research truly be found to support the addiction model for treating sexual problems? What happens when we look at our sexual behavior from the lens of it being broken, and even diseased? How does this affect such things as personal and relational trust? What are some of the issues that we should be talking or concerned about when it comes to sexual functioning? How should we treat and address sexual problems if we are not going to use an addiction model? Richard and Lawrence Siegel will be presenting at the University of Utah on April 22, 2016 for a training hosted by the Mormon Mental Health Association called: Challenging the Sex Addiction Model (meant for mental health practitioners but offering a rate for the general public). The Siegels often refer to the position the MMHA recently took sharing their concerns for the high frequency of sex addiction treatment being used to treat either unwanted sexual behavior (usually due to religious values) or sexual dysfunction within the Mormon population: Position on “Sex/Porn Addiction.” Richard M. Siegel, LMHC, CST is a Florida-licensed Mental Health Counselor, Director of the Modern Sex Therapy Institutes, a Florida Board Certified Sex Therapist and Qualified Supervisor, and an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, Supervisor of Sex Therapy, and Provider of Continuing Education. He has a rich experiential background, including over 20 years as a sexuality educator and fifteen years in private sex therapy practice. In addition to his private practice in Boca Raton, Florida, Mr. Siegel is an adjunct faculty member at Palm Beach State College and enjoys a national reputation as a respected trainer, supervisor and conference presenter. Lawrence Siegel, MA, CSE is a Clinical Sexologist and sexuality education consultant. He is the founder and serves on the Board of Directors of Sage Institute for Family Development, a non-profit training and counseling center in Florida. Larry sits on the faculties of several colleges, universities and training institutions, and is nationally recognized as a leader in the fields of sexuality, sexual development, sexual pharmacology, and medical sexology. Links to resources that are covered during the podcast: Eli Coleman of the University of Minnesota Everything You Think You Know About Addiction is Wrong: TED Talk by Johann Hari Mormon Sex Info Episode 4: From Sex Addiction to Sex Positivity featuring Joe Kort Marty Klein author of Sexual Intelligence, America's War on Sex and more Douglas Braun-Harvey author of Sexual Health in Recovery Raven James author of Sexuality and Addiction: Making Connections, Enhancing Recovery Russell Stambaugh, author of the blog: The Elephant in the Hot Tub: Kink in Context

This podcast episode was originally recorded for "Mormon Sex Info" Podcast. It's now being refurbished for your enjoyment here at the "Healing Sols Podcast." For more from Natasha Helfer, LCMFT, CST, CSTS, please visit https://www.natashahelfer.com. Natasha Helfer Parker interviews Kristin Bennion, CST, LCSW – an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist – on the important topic of understanding and treating female genital pain. What types of genital pain do women generally deal with and why? How do you go about making sure you are getting an accurate diagnosis? What assumptions and myths prevail when it comes to dealing with these types of issues? What role can a spouse play to be part of the solution instead of the problem? How can anatomy education play a role? What role does physiology play vs. psychology when it comes to genital pain (i.e. it's not “all in your head”)? What messages do we have within Mormonism that can both help or hinder the ways we deal with and navigate issues such as these? What types of treatment exist to help with genital pain? Kristin Bennion runs a private practice in Orem, Utah called an Intimate Connections Counseling. Areas she specializes in include: women's sexuality, desire discrepancies in couples, intimacy enhancement, intersection of faith and sexuality, out-of-control behavior, body image issues and eating disorder treatment. She has appeared on KSL television and local radio stations, has written a variety of articles for local media sources and has offered many community presentations. She is a graduate from BYU and works primarily with an LDS population.

For more from Natasha Helfer, LCMFT, CST, CSTS, including other solution focused tips, please visit https://www.natashahelfer.com.

For more from Natasha Helfer, LCMFT, CST, CSTS, please visit https://www.natashahelfer.com. Healing Sols Podcast episode #13: A Transgender Coming Out Story, with Mandy Lynn Danzig, LCSW, a social worker, musician and activist based in Salt Lake City. She is currently the director of HIV Case Management and Beahviroal Health Consulting at the University of Utah's Infectious Disease clinic. Mandy shares her story about growing up in a religioulsy conservative community and how that impacted & limited her ability to consider gender identity throughout her development into adulthood. She talks about her personal journey of transitioning, through the lens of a mental health clinician and best standards of care for the transgender community. We have the special treat of listening to a couple of original songs, as well as some education at the end on the current status of HIV statistics, treatment and its hopeful eradication. Super informative listen! Check out more of her music and information at https://www.mandylynndanzig.com

This podcast episode was originally recorded for "Mormon Sex Info" Podcast. It's now being refurbished for your enjoyment here at the "Healing Sols Podcast." For more from Natasha Helfer, LCMFT, CST, CSTS, please visit https://www.natashahelfer.com. Natasha Helfer interviews Isa Jones, a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Clinical Sexologist, on the importance of creating & claiming our sexual identities both as individuals and couples. What does this mean? For example, we often have clear ideas about many roles we play in our lives… who am I as a parent?… as a spouse?… as a business partner? But how many times have we thought about… who am I sexually? So, how do we go about claiming our own sexuality in ways that hold authenticity and internal authority? What sexual values do we hold – not just from our religious culture – but from the space of pleasure, consent, vulnerability, erotic experience, etc.? And then… how do we communicate these sexual spaces with our partners – especially when sexual tastes and preferences differ? Natasha and Isa discuss all kinds of helpful strategies, exercises and reframes that can help you find your erotic potential, manage libido differences and better negotiate sexual fantasy, desires and interests.  men and couples to live with more passion, self-confidence and joy for over 20 years. To get in touch with Isa visit www.ScottsdaleSexTherapy.com. Links to resources that are covered during the podcast: Esther Perel's Ted Talk – Mating in Captivity: Reconciling Intimacy and Sexuality & book Mating in Captivity: Unlocking Sexual Intelligence Gina Ogden, author of The Return of Desire: A Guide to Rediscovering your Sexual Passion, and Women who Love Sex: Ordinary Women Describe their Paths to Pleasure, Intimacy and Ecstasy and more… Barry McCarthy's book: Discovering your Couple Sexual Style: Sharing Desire, Pleasure and Satisfaction Tammy Nelson, author of The New Monogamy: Redefining your Relationship after Infidelity and Getting the Sex You Want: Shed your Inhibitions and Reach New Heights of Passion Together Janis Abrahms Spring, author of After the Affair and How Can I Forgive You?: The Courage to Forgive, the Freedom Not To

For more from Natasha Helfer, LCMFT, CST, CSTS, please visit https://www.natashahelfer.com. Healing Sols Podcast episode #11: Nuance in Considering Late Term Abortion with Analiesa Leonhardt who is a nurse midwife, has a doctorate as a nurse practitioner from the university of Utah and was a doula for five years prior. She recently wrote a facebook post - https://www.facebook.com/analiesa.leonhardt/posts/10164136788910007 - that caught Natasha's attention in regards to the current legislation trying to be passed in Colorado (prop 115) in regards to limiting abortion after 22 weeks. Analiesa does a phenomenal job educating us about the moral and ethical impications of such a measure in regards to a woman's ability to make decisions, especially when facing the devastating news that the fetus has medical complications that may not allow for the baby to live past delivery. She shares statistics and information that are important to consider as we all face the dilemmas around our views on abortion, and the consequences of the current polarized discussion on this topic. Her thoughtful language and approach to this topic has a profound impact on the listener. You will value the listen.

This podcast episode was originally recorded for "Mormon Sex Info" Podcast. It's now being refurbished for your enjoyment here at the "Healing Sols Podcast." For more from Natasha Helfer, LCMFT, CST, CSTS, please visit https://www.natashahelfer.com. Natasha Helfer Parker interviews Dr. Joe Kort, an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist on his latest Psychology Today article called, https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/understanding-the-erotic-code/201511/why-i-am-no-longer-sex-addiction-therapist. Why I am No Longer a Sex-Addiction Therapist (a great follow up to Episode 1: Porn Addiction: Is it Real?). They cover a wide range of topics, including: What is the history of the sex addiction model? Why (at least initially) can this model be helpful? What are some of the reasons why the sex addiction model does not offer long-term success for many? How do we go about defining and treating out of control sexual behavior? What role does past trauma play? What role does sexual shaming play? What role does secrecy play? What is the difference between secrecy and privacy? What role do other mental health diagnoses play? How do we go about supporting and defining healthy sexuality? How do we make room for our own and our spouse's erotic interests? How do we deal with the tension between religious values/teachings and the sexual desires/tastes/fantasies an individual or couple are experiencing? Be aware that Dr. Kort shares some frank clinical examples from his practice that include some sexual details. Dr. Joe Kort is a leading expert on sex and relationships. He specializes in Out-of-Control Sexual Behaviors, Relationship Problems and Marital Conflict, Sex Therapy, and Sexual Identity Concerns, Depression, Anxiety and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. His practice is located in Royal Oak, Michigan but he welcomes clients from all over the Metro Detroit area. Dr. Kort is also available for long-distance coaching and consultation. Dr. Kort graduated from Michigan State University with dual majors in Psychology and Social Work. At Wayne State University, he earned his Master's in Social Work (MSW), then a Master's (MA) in Psychology, and has received his Doctorate (Ph.D.) in Clinical Sexology from the American Academy of Clinical Sexologists (AACS). More about Dr. Kort: Teaching Faculty at University of Michigan Sexual Health Certificate Program Certified IMAGO Relationship Therapist Board Certified Sexologist Member of the Society for the Advancement of Sexual Health (SASH) Member of the Academy of Certified Social Workers Member of the National Association of Certified Social Workers Certified AASECT Therapist, Supervisor of Sex Therapy and Member of American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) Member of EMDRIA Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Basic Training Licensed Clinical Social Worker He has been featured in Huffington Post Live & Huffington Post, Psychology Today, The New York Times, and Woman's Day. Links to resources that are covered during the podcast: Treating Out of Control Sexual Behavior: Rethinking Sex Addiction by Douglas Braun-Harvey & Michael Vigorito The Erotic Mind by Jack Morin Sex Smart Films (might include material and images that some within the LDS population would not feel comfortable with) Sinclair Institute (might include material and images that some within the LDS population would not feel comfortable with) Imago Couples Therapy Approach  

For more from Natasha Helfer, LCMFT, CST, CSTS, please visit https://www.natashahelfer.com. Healing Sols Podcast episode #9: Being Resilient as an Individual and within Relationships with Christian Moore, LCSW, founder of whytry.org and author of The Resilience Breakthrough: 27 Tools for Turning Adversity into Action. Christian travels the world presenting to all kinds of organizations, specifically those serving underpriviliged youth, about rising above very challenging situations usually affected by learning disorders. We discuss the traits and behaviors that lead towards resilience minded frameworks and how these can benefit your life, mental and relational health. How do we better understand the differences of unconditional vs. conditional love and what they both reap? What is "street resilience"? What does a role of a mentor in our development offer? Are we really just supposed to be getting "rid" of negative feelings? What role can what are typcially labeled "negative feelings" play in empowerment and self-transformation? How can we get along with people who believe fundamentally different things than we do (super important part of the podcast given we are just days away from the US election)? Christian is a brilliant thinker who has put his own life experience to the test in regards to his theoretical framing. Transformative listen that I recommend going through at least twice!

This podcast episode was originally recorded for "Mormon Sex Info" Podcast. It's now being refurbished for your enjoyment here at the "Healing Sols Podcast." For more from Natasha Helfer, LCMFT, CST, CSTS, please visit https://www.natashahelfer.com. Natasha Helfer Parker interviews Dr. Neil Cannon, an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist and Supervisor of Sex Therapy, on the topic of Erectile Dysfunction (ED). They cover the many factors that go into the ability to get or maintain an erection for penetrative sexuality… but it doesn't stop there. They also discuss the many messages men receive about their sexuality, men's sexual health, what most people assume it means to be sexually successful, relational dynamics. Both physiological and psychological factors are addressed, including a discussion on the various ways ED can be successfully treated. Dr. Cannon has a private practice in Denver, Colorado, received his PhD in Human Sexuality, is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Clinical Fellow of AAMFT. Dr. Cannon teaches both graduate and post-graduate students of psychology, counseling and social work at The University of Denver, The University of Colorado, and Regis and Metropolitan State University. He is also an instructor at the University of Michigan, School of Social Work Sexual Health Certificate Program. The University of Michigan is known in the field of sex therapy for being one of the leading programs in the world for clinicians on a path towards becoming sex therapists. Dr. Cannon is a published author, professional speaker, supervisor, mentor, and nationally recognized expert on sex, intimacy and relationships. Links to resources that are covered during the podcast: Dr. Cannon mentioned some hypnotherapy audio resources that are available at: audiocounseling.com  

For more from Natasha Helfer, LCMFT, CST, CSTS, please visit https://www.natashahelfer.com. Healing Sols Podcast episode #7: Myths & Facts with Sex Trafficking of Minors with Allan Alexander, MFT who works as a Clinical Field Lead with San Diego Youth Services... in particular assessing for Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC) in the youth that show up in juvenile hall. Allan shares typcial myths about sex trafficking (i.e. this doesn't happen in my neighborhood, kids are kidnapped into sex slavery, this only happens to females, this only happens to poor people, drugs and mental health issues lead to risks, etc.). He also talks about risk factors we should be aware of such as lack of supportive adults in their lives, being a runaway or truant youth, being kicked out of your home (higher likelihood for LGBTQ+ kids), having domestic violence or other abusve dynamics in the home and lack of community resources. We answer questions like: What are the challenges that these minors are facing? How do we address sex trafficking from a systemic perspective? Who are the main consumers of sexually exploitative services? What kinds of conversations should you be having with your kids to help reduce risks? Important and informative listen!

For more from Natasha Helfer, LCMFT, CST, CSTS, including other solution focused tips, please visit https://www.natashahelfer.com.

This podcast episode was originally recorded for "Mormon Sex Info" Podcast. It's now being refurbished for your enjoyment here at the "Healing Sols Podcast." For more from Natasha Helfer, LCMFT, CST, CSTS, please visit https://www.natashahelfer.com. Natasha Helfer Parker interviews Alisha Worthington, SSW, a sexual educator, on the topic of sexual lubrication. This is a fascinating, educational podcast on such subjects as: How are our bodies designed to engage in sexual pleasure? What is the relationship between arousal and bodily fluids? What are the common myths and misconceptions about lubrication? What types of issues can get in the way of bodily function? What types of lubrication products exist? Which are good for you to use, and which can actually exacerbate problems? How do you define a good quality lube? Which kinds of lubes should you use depending on age, type of sex, use of sex toys or condoms, or even medications one might be taking? Where can you buy good lube? Alisha Worthington is an LDS Sexual Educator and has contributed to many media resources such as: FamilyShare.com and The Deseret News. She has been a regular contributor on the Radio From Hell show on x96 taking live calls on sex and intimacy and has been a guest on KUTV 2 morning news. She is an educator, group facilitator, and coach for The Healing Group, where she offers many workshops and services regarding women's health and sexuality, and co-author of the book Real Intimacy: A Couple's Guide to Healthy, Genuine Sexuality. She is also a member of the Mormon Mental Health Association. Links to resources that are covered during the podcast: Real Intimacy: a Couples Guide to Healthy, Genuine Sexuality by Kristin Hodson, Alisha Worthington, and Thomas Harrison Smitten Kitten Yes! Coconu

For more from Natasha Helfer, LCMFT, CST, CSTS, including other solution focused tips, please visit https://www.natashahelfer.com.

For more from Natasha Helfer, LCMFT, CST, CSTS, please visit https://www.natashahelfer.com. Informative discussion with Dr. Christine King Burke, pelvic floor physical therapist and clinical supervisor for the Hoag Pelvic Health Program in Newport Beach, CA. You will hear an educational conversation about the many reasons women in particular experience painful sex. It is disheartening to hear the statistics of how common it is for women to report painful sex, and how it is often normalized by our culture instead of understanding that there are reasons and treatments for issues such as vaginismus, vulvodynia, interstitial cystitis, endometriosis, and more.  Listening will help you understand what issues you or your partner may be experiencing so that you can be better prepared to advocate for your pelvic floor health with your medical providers. We answer questions like: Should everyone be doing kegel exercises? Are some penises just too big for some vaginas? Isn't it normal for sex to hurt the first time you have intercourse, after having a baby or after menopause? What about anal sex? What does a pelvic floor therapist do? Great listen!

This podcast episode was originally recorded for "Mormon Sex Info" Podcast. It's now being refurbished for your enjoyment here at the "Healing Sols Podcast." For more from Natasha Helfer, LCMFT, CST, CSTS, please visit https://www.natashahelfer.com. Natasha Helfer Parker interviews Kristin Hodson, LCSW, CST regarding the common use of the term “porn” or “sex” addiction within our Mormon culture. They cover limitations and issues when individuals, spouses, leaders or professionals pathologize unwanted sexual behavior – as well as cover more sex-positive approaches that are more likely to lead to the sexual health all parties are interested in achieving. Kristin Hodson is an LDS Certified Sex Therapist and has contributed to many media resources such as: Sheknows.com, Woman's Day Magazine, and The Deseret News. She has been a regular contributor on the Radio From Hell show on x96 taking live calls on sex and intimacy, has appeared on KSL's Studio 5, and has been a monthly guest on KUTV 2 morning news. She is the Founder and Executive Director of The Healing Group, where she offers many workshops and services regarding women's health and sexuality, and co-author of the book Real Intimacy: A Couple's Guide to Healthy, Genuine Sexuality. Links to resources that are covered during the podcast: The Healing Group Real Intimacy: A Couple's Guide to Healthy, Genuine Sexuality by Kristin Hodson, Alisha Worthington, and Thomas Harrison AASECT Passionate Marriage by David Schnarch The Truth by Neil Strauss Recovering from the Trap of Pornography by Elder Dallin H. Oaks Expanding Sex Therapy and Gina Ogden Mormon Porn Project  

Healing Sols Podcast episode #3: Sex after Pregnancy. Informative discussion with Dr. Stephanie Buehler, licensed psychologist and AASECT certified sex therapist and author of "Counseling Couples Before, During and After Pregnancy: Sexually and Intimacy Issues.” You will hear a comprehensive dialogue about the many hiccups couples often encounter after that sweet baby is born. From physical issues (i.e. painful sex), hormonal implications (i.e. mood swings/postpartum depression), psychological stressors and narratives (i.e. how do I feel about my sexuality as a parent?), gender role expectations (i.e. how am I supposed to be showing up as a mom or dad?), social stressors (i.e. opinions or pressures from well meaning family or friends) and body image frustrations (i.e. will I ever lose that baby fat!?). Having babies are usually a wonderful time in a couple's life... and yet, wonderful times can still be stressful. Listening will help you prepare for some things you may not currently be aware of as well as give you some ideas as to what you can do to remedy some problems you come across. It can also give you a sense of some things you may need to talk through years after baby making time to get your sex life back on track. Great listen!   https://www.amazon.com/Counseling-Couples-Before-During-Pregnancy-ebook/dp/B074QFJ5ZK/ref=sr_1_2?crid=3P3YQRFSZT2PJ&dchild=1&keywords=stephanie%20buehler&qid=1601353756&sprefix=Buehler%20step%2Caps%2C203&sr=8-2&fbclid=IwAR3jSGta4S2Y72mWgev8RTIZ6uUNALMszsh4druWKJqhLvmk73LmwIWSSnc   https://www.amazon.com/Every-Mental-Health-Professional-Second/dp/0826174442/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3P3YQRFSZT2PJ&dchild=1&keywords=stephanie%20buehler&qid=1601353756&sprefix=Buehler%20step%2Caps%2C203&sr=8-1&fbclid=IwAR1r363wkfr7l1XT_DtSg7cidTjwUcPbtRSVWOmWb0uRoMNn8cnmHrw_XvI   https://www.learnsextherapy.com/?fbclid=IwAR0fpU27LBi6KyIJMlZRpLs80pJBAlvfwiiyWJVnYGGIbeRl78Uw7Q-BEgc   https://thebuehlerinstitute.com/?fbclid=IwAR077yRl1SH7P41O-SjplQoRa16Tb6CQUoo1roVIOCec6y4hoyB8lC2_xVc

Healing Sols Podcast episode #2: Reconstructing Identity after Faith Transition & Spiritual Abuse. Open discussion with Julienna Viegas, political scientist, blogger and podcaster talking about her journey coming from a conservative religous background and how her identity has been challenged and rebuilt after her faith transition. You will hear an intersectional perspective on how her identity formation deals with her sense of self as a woman, as a black woman, as a non citizen US resident, her politics & values, her professional choices, her sexuality, and her thoughts of identifying as a spiritual abuse survivor. Julienna is a great example of exactly the type of journey we will often be addresing at the Healing Sols Podcast: Reimagining yourself after realizing the lens you were living through was not working. Great listen! https://www.spiritualabuseresources.com/conferencesevents/dallas-tx-event?fbclid=IwAR0F5PCv40uifLudz2rJ-XQv4JWnGUoy2G3E5IiM1F4GWQz7BJSiy0YuhvA https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-faith-transition-podcast/id1482991805 https://www.mormonstories.org/podcast/what-progressive-mormons-want-with-julienna-viegas-haws/

What is the Yes/And approach? A way to see things differently and change problems into solutions. For more tips, visit: https://www.natashahelfer.com

Waldinger's Contributions to Sex Therapy. Fascinating discussion with Dr. Jim Pfaus, researcher, neurobiologist, and sexologist currently based at Concordia University about the work of late psychiatrist, Dr. Marcel Waldinger and his significant contributions to the field of sex therapy. We better understand and conceptualize conditions such as Persistent Genital Disorder, Rapid or Premature Ejaculation, and Delayed Ejaculation/Orgasm as well as effects of SSRI's on sexual response due to his work. You will get a great anatomical lesson on how our bodies respond to sexual stimuli as well as a clearer understanding of how arousal and desire show up in human bodies and the many things that affect them.

What I have found in my work as a marriage, family and sex therapist is that I'm in the work of helping people heal from limiting, incorrect, and even harmful messaging. I've noticed over the years that I take a very solution focused approach to my work. And, in order to find solutions, we need information. This is why I love podcasting. It gives me an opportunity to interview so many amazing people who have something of value to share. Whether that's their story, their professional experience, their research, their art or their resources, you will find a wide variety of guests on the show. Which explains my choice of name: Healing Sols. It's a word play between "solutions" (things we want help with in our healing journey) and "souls" (the people who share of their energy and experience to help in that process.) Natasha Helfer, LCMFT, CST, CSTS natashahelfer.com