It’s Not About the Sex
This podcast is based on the book 'It's Not About the Sex'. Psychotherapist Andrew Susskind discusses shame, grief, narcissism, and codependency. He explains how out-of-control sexual behavior often serves as a way to cope with emotional pain. The show offers insights into the psychological roots of such behavior.
Episodes
Guided Meditation: Compassion for Self and Others
Compassion lives inside each of us but often gets muted in our daily routine. Give
yourself a few minutes to focus on compassion and you’ll establish deeper contact both
with yourself and others. Stay curious and away from judgment and watch your heart
open and soften. (4 mins)
Guided Meditation: Mindful Self-Compassion
We all struggle with self-critical thoughts, self-judgment and shame at times. Kristin Neff
and Christopher Germer developed this simple 3-step approach utilizing their elements
of Mindful Self-Compassion: mindfulness, common humanity and self-kindness.
Whether you’re going through a crisis or some type of health challenge, relationship
conflict or work stress, give this sequence a try and see how
Guided Meditation: Encountering Your Grief
A tender, contemplative meditation adapted from Joan Halifax's work that gently guides you through the difficult terrain of loss and sorrow. This practice invites you to sit with your grief compassionately, using reflective phrases to open to pain, find inner resources, and practice self-forgiveness for things left undone or unmet needs. Rather than avoiding or rushing through grief, this meditati
Guided Meditation on Grief
We all experience loss in one form or another throughout life. In this mindfulness meditation we will focus on grief and loss as opportunities to live with loss rather than “getting over it.” Check it out and see how grief can be your teacher.
Gratitude & Goodbye - Susskind & Merlino
After 6 years, 128 episodes and 60 guests, the podcast is winding down. It’s a bittersweet moment to say goodbye and to express gratitude to everyone involved in this collaborative experience. Although the podcast is ending, it will be available indefinitely on most platforms as well as www.westsidetherapist.com. Andrew and Sue thank all of you from the bottom of their hearts, and don’t forget, to
Revitalizing Sexual Health - Susskind & Merlino
In Chapter 10 of Andrew’s workbook he investigates sexual health through a non- pathologizing, destigmatizing lens. Themes include: defining sexual health, reviving pleasure and fantasy as an ally. This candid conversation takes a look at the intersection of 12 step recovery and sexual health as we open up a larger dialogue to exploring your authentic sexual self. Give yourself a few minutes to li
Coaching & Clarity: The Power of Clear Pathways - Sue Merlino, CADC
In this episode we turn the tables on our podcast producer, Sue Merlino to discuss her services called Clear Pathways. With a combination of coaching and organizing one’s physical space, Sue describes the valuable benefits to all of us, including those struggling with addiction or emotional challenges. In addition to walking clients through organizational skills, Sue also provides time management
Receiving Love - Susskind & Merlino
If you scratch the surface of compulsive sexual behavior, you’ll find intimacy avoidance. In this powerful episode, Susskind and Merlino look through the lens of attachment as they discuss the challenges and opportunities related to truly receiving love in recovery. With a focus on avoidant and anxious attachment styles they discuss the often-misunderstood term love addiction as well as the possib
The Necessity of Shame - Stefanie Klein, LCSW
In this podcast we welcome Stefanie Klein, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, NARM Master Therapist, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and Consultant based in Los Angeles who shares a refreshing take on shame through the lens of the Neuro-Affective Relational Model (NARM). You will learn about shame as a verb rather than an emotion and how it functions as an adaptive process. Because shame is univ
Restoring Purpose - Susskind and Merlino
Following the subjects from Chapter 8 in The It’s Not About the Sex Workbook, Andrew and Sue explore themes of long-term recovery including purpose, spirituality and legacy—all in the context of Positive Psychology and deeper soul-searching. How do spirituality, religion and purpose intersect with one another? Or not? Asking the bigger questions and staying away from exact answers is where the int
Redefining Recovery Through Connection and Purpose - Tim Harrington
Tim Harrington, founder of Family Coaching Services joins the podcast as he addresses the following topics: building a meaningful life post-recovery, especially by emphasizing healthy relationships, self-discovery and aligning actions with deeper values. Based on a depth of personal and professional experience, Tim offers practical steps for creating a more satisfying and purposeful recovery as we
Cultivating Contentment - Susskind & Merlino
In this episode we take a closer look at Chapter 7 of Andrew’s workbook and examine some of the essential ingredients of contentment including gratitude, connection and unconditional love. Distinctions are made among the terms joy, happiness and contentment as we discuss core values, visioning and purposeful goals. Listen to this optimistic episode as you choose to enhance contentment in your life
A Gestalt Healing Perspective - Rafael Cortina, MFT
Rafael Cortina, a San Diego-based therapist joins the podcast to discuss some of his valuable and wise perspectives on healing from addictive, compulsive behaviors. He shares the following themes: the functional understanding of addiction, the interwoven nature of trauma and addiction, the necessity of curiosity from both the therapist and client as well as “relational space healing”. Check out th
Feeling the Feelings - Susskind & Merlino
During this conversation Andrew and Sue take a deeper dive into Chapter Six Feeling the Feelings from The It’s Not About the Sex Workbook. Maybe it looks simple on the surface, but Andrew highlights the sustainable benefits of deeper emotional awareness and expression. With an emphasis on anger, hurt, fear and loneliness, we explore the feelings language that is often missed in childhood. Take a l
Sexual Identity Development - Katie Griffin, CGP
In this episode we welcome Katie Griffin, a nationally-recognized group consultant and leader in the field. She brings her passion and enthusiasm to other practitioners and believes firmly in the power of group to help individuals become more fully alive. In this candid and revealing conversation Katie takes a closer look at sexual identity development in sustainable recovery as a portal to deeper
Regulating the Nervous System - Susskind & Merlino
Andrew and Sue discuss Chapter Five, Regulating the Nervous System from Andrew’s recent workbook. Beginning with a memoir snapshot and ending with practical strategies and action steps, they explore the following themes: following the rhythm within, identifying regulation and dysregulation, utilizing the Window of Resilience, and naming attachment styles and how they correlate with nervous system
Problematic Sexualized Drug Use - Dr. David Fawcett
In this episode we welcome Dr. David Fawcett, a clinical social worker, sex therapist and two-time author specializing in chemsex and problematic sexualized drug use. Often a misunderstood form of suffering, David disentangles the complexities of these intertwined behaviors. With effective clinical strategies and decades of experience, David helps us understand a path to recovery based on a clear,
Moving Beyond Narcissism - Susskind & Merlino
Today’s episode focuses on Chapter Four of Andrew’s workbook as we explore the healthier side of narcissism, other-centeredness, generosity of spirit as well as longing and belonging. Beneath narcissism is broken heartedness so tune in to understand the deeper healing and trajectory from this complicated survival strategy.
From Vocal Coach to Recovery Coach - Arnold McCuller
In this episode we welcome Arnold McCuller, interventionist and recovery coach based in Southern California. Learn about his extensive career working as a professional vocalist which has taken a later-in-life shift toward interventions for those in the entertainment industry and beyond. Arnold can be reached at www.arnoldmcculler.com.
Music credit: Neil Freebern Freebernmusic.com
Psychodrama 101: It’s All About the Warm Up - Jean Campbell
Today we welcome Jean Campbell, the CEO of Action Institute of California to talk with us about psychodrama, sociometry, resourcing, and Somatic Experiencing—all in the context of compulsive sexual behavior, addictions in general as well as trauma. With 30 years of expertise, Jean brings together groups of people to heal from their broken-heartedness. She can be reached at www.theactioninstitute.c
Turning Down the Volume on Shame - Susskind & Merlino
In this episode we examine Chapter Three of Andrew’s workbook as we encourage curiosity and non-judgment about shame. Although shame never goes away entirely, you can respond to it differently. In this discussion we explore the following: building shame resiliency, taming the inner critic and practicing mindful self-compassion. Tune in to see how shame can be normalized and diminished in your life
Attachment Assessment DIY - Joni Lavick, LMFT
On today’s episode we warmly welcome back clinical psychologist Joni Lavick, who is a seasoned expert on attachment theory and its applications. In this informative conversation we cover the following: the history of attachment theory, misconceptions, how to understand your own patterns, and the correlation between attachment strategies and addictive behaviors and more. Please tune in to this user
Living with Loss - Susskind & Merlino
Grief and loss is often overlooked or avoided in our society. Andrew and Sue take this opportunity to delve into this often-misunderstood topic of grief and loss and its implications on long-term recovery from sexual compulsivity. Andrew shares a “memoir snapshot” as well as specific practices to consider using toward living more peacefully and openheartedly with the inevitable losses that come wi
A Grief Memoir - Jen Davis, MA, CLC
In this intimate conversation, Jen Davis takes us on a journey that most of us avoid. From her own transformative experiences with grief, Jen shares the curiosity, the wonder and the ultimate path to living a fuller life. Through a lens of self-compassion, honesty and forgiveness we explore the limitless possibilities and challenges that go along with grief recovery. Co-collaborating with grief an
Emotional Resilience - Susskind & Merlino
Today’s episode featuring Andrew and Sue focuses on Emotional Resilience, the lead chapter of Andrew’s workbook. In the original book, the first chapter explored Emotional Sobriety, but the word resilience is more aligned with Andrew’s current focus on regulating the nervous system. This episode kicks off a monthly spotlight on each workbook chapter.
Music credit: Neil Freebern Freebernmusic.com
Sexual Recovery: From a Nightmare to a Love Story - Steven Wolt
Today’s episode is Sexual Recovery: From a Nightmare to a Love Story. We welcome Steve Wolt, founder of Valor Recovery, a peer-based recovery coaching and support system to help men overcome porn abuse, sexual compulsivity and intimacy challenges. By discussing the promises of sexual recovery, Steve offers hope and inspiration to his clients and our listeners. He shares the differences among coach
Virtual Book Launch Celebration - Susskind and Merlino
Andrew’s latest release The It’s Not About the Sex Workbook: Moving from Isolation to Intimacy after Sexual Compulsivity (Routledge Press, 2024) is now available for purchase on Amazon, and he and Sue wanted to take this opportunity to explore Andrew’s journey with his three books from 2004 to 2024. Andrew shares the opportunities and challenges that go along with the writing process and the publi
Lovingkindness Meditation - Susskind
At this time of unrest in the world, it’s even more important to focus our attention on lovingkindness toward self and others. Adapted from a meditation developed by the Mindfulness Awareness Research Center (MARC) at UCLA, this timely exercise provides an opportunity to carve out some time to cultivate the love and kindness within.
The Over-Controlled Temperament - Dr. Tom Murray
We welcome Dr. Tom Murray, author of Making Nice with Naughty which explores the intricate dynamics of self-control and its impact on sexual and intimate relationships. During this provocative conversation, issues related to the over-controlled temperament, monogamy and the wanting vs. willing dynamic in sexual relationships are explored fully. Tune into this very relevant and overlooked theme.
M
Visioning 2024 - Susskind
Adapted from Jack Canfield’s book The Success Principles, this visioning exercise gives you an opportunity to envision the coming year without limiting yourself. By examining the seven areas he developed, this will invite you to open the aperture to the limitless possibilities ahead of you. It’s not that anything has to happen, but simply what could happen – Dr. Sam Foster
Consensual Non-Monogamy - Mellissa McCracken, CADC, CSAT-C
Mellissa McCracken is a trauma informed substance abuse counselor working in an acute treatment setting in Los Angeles. In this episode we explore consensual non-monogamy, polyamory, and open relationships all in the context of sexual recovery and more. Mellissa
brings her expertise and wisdom within the LGBTQI+ community into this valuable conversation. Please join us to learn more about these of
Holiday Tips - Susskind & Merlino
Andrew and Sue offer an abundance of tips to help navigate the 2023-
2024 holidays and beyond. Borrowed from Andrew’s new book, The It’s
Not About the Sex Workbook (Routledge Press, February 2023), these tips
are part of the practices outlined at the end of his workbook. Take a
listen and try out a few tips that resonate for you.
Porn Literacy - Diane Gleim, LMFT
Porn has inadvertently become a form of sex education in our culture, but it’s actually entertainment. Diane Gleim is a psychotherapist as well as a certified sex therapist who brings her seasoned perspective and wisdom to this often-misunderstood topic. In this conversation she helps us explore the ambiguity of porn, the suspension of disbelief, moral incongruence as well as erotic conflicts. Joi
Guided Breathing Meditation - Susskind
How often do we forget to simply breathe? Listen to this guided meditation as an opportunity to take stock of your breath non-judgmentally and with curiosity. In this brief exercise you will build body and breath awareness and see where this moment of relaxation may take you. This exercise has been modified from a meditation originally developed by the Mindfulness Awareness Research Center (MARC)
Understanding Motivation for Change - Michael Vigorito, LMFT, CGP, CST-S
In this episode we welcome psychotherapist, sex therapist, author and trainer, Michael Vigorito as we
discuss the motivation for change through a sexual health lens. He is the co-author of Treating Out of Control Sexual Behavior: Rethinking Sex Addiction with Douglas Braun-Harvey, a refreshing, non-
pathologizing and research-based text. Take a listen to this informative sexual health conversation
Navigating Depression - Susskind & Merlino
In this episode Andrew and Sue examine the differences between clinical depression, seasonal
mood changes and generalized sadness. Depression sometimes shows up side-by-side with
sexual compulsivity, but how do you know how to tackle these complicated issues? Listen to
the many ways that depression manifests and some practical tips you can try at home.
Becoming an Executive Coach - Klifton Fehr, LMHC
In this episode we welcome Klifton Fehr, a counselor based in South Florida who works extensively within the corporate sector as a coach and trainer. With a focus on inspirational influences, we explore the many directions mental health and group therapy has taken him through the years. Learn about the differences between counseling and coaching as well as the avenues he continues to develop. Visi
Five Years Later - Susskind & Merlino
Andrew and Sue take a look at the past five years since the original book It’s Not About the
Sex was born. In this episode Andrew reveals the big news about his companion workbook
to be released in the Spring of 2024 (Routledge Press, New York City). We discuss the
evolution of thinking that has accompanied this process as well as the many influences of
this latest project. Listen to this lively r
Happy, Silly, Wise - Claudia Lewis, LMFT
This episode features psychotherapist and spiritual seeker, Claudia Lewis, LMFT as we discuss her recent provocative book entitled Happy, Silly, Wise: Creating a Magical Life in Challenging Times. Themes such as “not enough-ness”, human being vs. human doing, letting go of seriousness and cultivating creativity are just some of the topics explored. Contact Claudia at www.claudialewistherapy.com.
Guided Meditation for Working with Difficulties - Susskind
In this meditation we focus on the possibility of holding both pleasant and unpleasant feelings/
sensations simultaneously. Borrowed from the Mindful Awareness Research Center (MARC) at
UCLA, this mindfulness exercise allows you to feel your capacity to hold whatever life has to
offer you. For more information and mindfulness resources, visit www.marc.ucla.edu.
Moving from Suffering to Savoring with Carlos Canales, Psy.D.
As a bilingual, bicultural clinician, Dr. Carlos Canales comes to us from Des
Moines, Iowa with an open heart and a clinical wisdom that transcends traditional
recovery. In this stimulating conversation, he discusses the “many necessary
recoveries” every person needs to engage in for well-being. With an emphasis on
the vulnerability and courage it takes to seek growth in recovery, Dr. Canales
offe
Window of Resilience - Susskind & Merlino
In this episode Andrew and Sue explore the Window of Resilience, originally
coined by Dr. Dan Siegel as the Window of Tolerance. Building somatic awareness
is part of long-term, sustainable recovery, and this descriptive diagram illuminates
the contrast between regulation and dysregulation. Learn simple strategies to
move toward resilience and embodiment including conscious breathing,
grounding, o
The Role of Community in Recovery - Nate Larkin, M.Div
In this episode we welcome Nate Larkin, founder of a mutual aid society for Christian Men called the Samson Society and co-host of two podcasts, The Pirate Monk and the Positive Sobriety Podcast. Nate brings his salt-of-the-earth approach to 12 step recovery as we discuss the movement from isolation, loneliness, and resistance to humility, intimacy and deeper connection. Don’t miss this open-heart
Receiving Love - Susskind and Merlino
Andrew returned from his annual pilgrimage to the American Group Psychotherapy Association (AGPA) conference feeling well-fed and fortified with the love around him. AGPA has become a staple of love for both Andrew’s professional and personal life so tune in to learn more about how “receiving love” is a necessary component of long-term sustainable recovery. Andrew and Sue explore the ways love is
Core Roots & Sustainable Healing - Mariya Javed-Payne, LCSW
In this episode Mariya Javed-Payne, LICSW visits with us from her program located in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. Not only does she share valuable and comprehensive information about healing from ritualized self-soothing activities but she also embodies a heart-centered, relationship-focused approach. Mariya is a Brainspotting trainer as well as owner of Awaken Consulting Services and co-owner of In
The Mystery of Men’s Group - Susskind & Merlino
Susskind and Merlino explore the sacred nature of men’s therapy groups and the lasting benefits such as shame resilience, self-compassion, empathy and emotional risk-taking just to name a few. Listen to this episode and learn how men’s groups can be a catalyst for sustainable healing from both addiction and trauma recovery.
Practical Psychotherapist - Joni Lavick, LMFT
Practical Psychotherapist Joni Lavick, LMFT joins us today on the podcast as we discuss Assets-based Therapy and The Elusive Nature of Feeling Good About Yourself. In this episode, Joni walks us through the correlation between Attachment and Addictions and also illuminates what she calls assets-based therapy. Tune in to this refreshing, positive conversation regarding sustainable addiction recover
Mission: Joy-Finding Happiness in Troubled Times - Susskind & Merlino
The Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu visited together for five days in 2015 resulting in a book and a documentary developed from their conversations of inspiration and wisdom. Andrew and Sue discuss the profound nature of their brief visit and the depth of their spiritual leadership. In this episode we try to capture just a little bit of the joy and compassion that were exuded in this extraordinary fil
Vision Exercise - Susskind
Andrew leads you through a personal favorite, a Visioning exercise adapted from Jack Canfield’s book The Success Principles. It’s not about getting caught in the “supposed to’s” or what others think is best for you. Instead, it’s an opportunity for soul-searching and expansiveness as you consider the limitless possibilities ahead of you. As you listen to this guided visioning exercise, you’ll crea
Visioning - Susskind & Merlino
In this New Year’s episode Andrew and Sue discuss the Visioning exercise originally developed by Jack Canfield. Playing with the possibilities, asking yourself what you truly want and desire and giving yourself the freedom to unlock your twelve-month vision. Often utilized by coaches, visioning allow you to take a closer look at where you are and where you want to be in the future. Join this energ
Beyond Anti-Depressants: TMS as an Alternative - Dr. Martha Koo
Today we welcome Dr. Martha Koo, Board Certified in Psychiatry and
Addiction Medicine, who describes the treatment of depression with
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Dr. Koo shares the history and
current usage of TMS with patients who have not responded effectively
with antidepressants or ECT. This cutting-edge approach is a best-kept
secret in the mental health field so don’t miss this
Got Consultation? - Susskind & Merlino
In this up close and personal episode, Andrew and Sue explore the
challenges associated with asking for help. Andrew reviews his 30-year
journey of not only learning how to ask for help but becoming more and
more comfortable seeking consultation from trusted friends, colleagues
and mentors.
To contact Andrew please do so through his website: https://westsidetherapist.com
Reigniting Intimate Connection - Linda Landon, PCC
As a certified life and recovery coach, Linda works extensively with couples
interested in revitalizing their intimate, sexual connection. With a focus on
deeper contact to self and to one another, Linda shares her respectful approach
to couples in recovery including somatic tools, mindfulness and “homeplay” that
she suggests for practice between sessions. With many years of personal and
professio
The MindTravel Experience - Susskind & Merlino
Andrew and Sue discuss their recent experience on Santa Monica Beach entitled “MindTravel”. In this episode, they re-visit the theme of forgiveness which was the focal point of this multi-sensory experience. Spiritual? Metaphysical? Psychological? All of the above were present during this highly-creative experiential evening.
Sexual Integrity - Dr. Steven Davidson
In this episode we discuss sexual integrity based on Dr. Davidson’s book of the same name. We also take a fresh look at the depathologizing language of compulsive sexual behavior rather than sex addiction. Dr. Davidson shares his direct, psycho-educational approach to working with couples to help them expand their capacity for discussing and exploring sex in safe and productive ways.
Positive Psychology and Coaching - Susskind & Merlino
Did you know that the term Positive Psychology was coined less than twenty-five years ago? Although it’s one of the newer additions to the mental health field, it has taken its place as a refreshing, optimistic approach to life fulfillment. In today’s episode we take a look at its connection to coaching as well as a comparison with the Twelve Steps and psychotherapy.
Self-Compassion Break - Susskind
Mindful self-compassion has taken the world by storm as a power tool for wellness and self-acceptance. Borrowing from the Self-Compassion. Break developed by Chris Germer and Kristin Neff, Andrew walks you through this exercise which provides a valuable way to speak to yourself kindly and mindfully.
Interview with Sue Merlino
To celebrate our 75th episode, we turn the tables on our podcast producer, Sue Merlino as we discuss her career which has involved several twists and turns but always comes back to both storytelling and connection. As a close friend and collaborator for the past 37 years, Sue and Andrew take a stroll down memory lane as well as a mindful chat about purpose and direction.
Gut Health and Addiction - Edison DeMello, MD
Dr. Edison DeMello, an integrative physician and author of the recent groundbreaking book Bloated? joins us for an informative, mind-body-spirit discussion about how addictive, compulsive behaviors can be related to the gut. He normalizes the shame often attached to painful gastrointestinal issues while offering practical healing strategies. Listen to Dr. DeMello’s depth of expertise and refreshi
Brainspotting - Susskind & Merlino
Today’s episode entitled Brainspotting: A Step by Step Approach goes behind the scenes and into an actual session. Although it’s a worldwide phenomenon utilized in more than 70 countries, Brainspotting remains a mystery to many. In this episode Andrew and Sue offer a step by step demonstration of the standard sequence used in this healing process.
Psilocybin? Ketamine? MDMA?: Cutting-Edge Therapeutic Approaches - Dr. Eva Altobelli
Today we welcome Dr. Eva Altobelli, a Santa Monica-based addiction psychiatrist and psychedelics expert who speaks openly about the therapeutic use of psilocybin, ketamine and MDMA. This discussion clarifies both the controversy and the research-based direction the clinical community is moving.
The ABC’s of Dual Diagnosis - Susskind & Merlino
Dual Diagnosis? Co-occurring Disorders? Today we explore how these terms originated and how they are commonly used within the medical model. Because they don’t take into account the complexities of trauma, nervous system regulation and attachment ruptures, these terms are limited in their scope and relevance. Tune in to this honest conversation about the multi-faceted, multi-layered approach to tr
Cutting-Edge Treatment for Chronic Pain - Dr. Mel Pohl
In this episode we welcome Dr. Mel Pohl, a seasoned addiction and chronic pain physician in the field for more than forty years. He is the Senior Medical Consultant at the Pointe Malibu Recovery Center, Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Nevada and author of two valuable books focusing on pain management. Together we discuss the challenges and opportunities related to chronic pain r
A Day at the Beach - Guided Imagery
Today Andrew offers a short, guided imagery called A Day at the Beach. Take this opportunity to give yourself a few minutes to visit a favorite place from your past—a mini-vacation of relaxation.
Demystifying Group Therapy - Susskind and Merlino
In this episode Andrew and Sue travel behind the scenes of group therapy to take a closer look at the opportunity to learn about oneself side-by- side with others invested in growing together. Group therapy is one of the most cost-effective and underutilized forms of deeper healing. Join this vital conversation to get a glimpse into this often-misunderstood therapeutic experience.
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Unresolved Trauma and Sexualized Drug Use - Mellissa McCracken, CADC-II
Today we welcome Mellissa McCracken who brings an elegant combination of experience, expertise, compassion, and clarity to this complicated subject with a focus on men who have sex with men. Utilizing a practical, harm-reduction approach, clients benefit from an open-minded, holistic method to establishing longer-term recovery and healing.
Chinese Medicine and Trauma - Dr. Lucy Postolov DACM, L.Ac.
Today’s episode features Dr. Lucy Postolov who discusses how trauma is treated through Chinese Medicine. Lucy talks about the art and science of Chinese Medicine and acupuncture and how she conceptualizes and treats both physical and emotional trauma. With thirty-five years of experience, Lucy brings an extraordinary depth of experience to this episode as well as to her colleagues and patients.
A Peaceful Place Guided Meditation - Susskind
Today Andrew offers a short, guided visualization traditionally called A Safe Place which he renamed A Peaceful Place. Take this opportunity to give yourself a few minutes to visit a favorite place from your past—a mini-vacation of relaxation.
Assessing Problematic Sexual Behavior - Bill Herring, LCSW, CSAT
On today’s episode psychotherapist Bill Herring joins us from Atlanta as he introduces us to the Problematic Sexual Behavior (PSB) framework he developed. Bill explores a non-pathologizing, refreshing perspective he applies to all sexual behaviors that have become problematic. Tune in to understand the five concise components often related to compulsive sexual behavior, porn struggles and chronic
Current Research Behind Compulsive Sexual Behavior - Dr. Shane Kraus
Today’s episode features Dr. Shane Kraus, a clinical psychologist and Assistant Professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Shane was instrumental in the development of the World Health Organization’s recent classification of Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder (CSBD). In this conversation he also shares his perspective on “moral incongruence”. Tune in to hear a research-based, grounded view
Examining the Five Love Languages
Another Valentine’s Day, another opportunity to re-visit our blueprints of giving and receiving love. In this intimate conversation, Andrew and Sue examine their love languages derived from the bestselling book, The Five Love Languages. Take the brief quiz at www.5lovelanguages.com which reveals how you feel most loved and desired. Keep in mind that these languages not only apply to romantic partn
Gratitude Guided Imagery
Nowadays you hear more and more about gratitude, but how do you integrate it into your daily life? In this episode Andrew leads you through a 5-minute guided imagery focusing on appreciation of life, yourself and loved ones. This may be a valuable reminder or possibly a kickstart for a gratitude practice.
The Eating Disorder Trap - Robyn Goldberg, RDN
Today we welcome Robyn Goldberg, RDN, CEDRD-S, registered dietician and author who helps us understand eating disorders and disordered eating in a friendly, easy-to-digest manner. With more than two decades of experience, Robyn brings a rare depth of experience as she discusses the profound suffering sometimes associated with food, body image and intimacy issues. Robyn can be reached on her websit
Lonely for the Holidays - Susskind and Merlino
Loneliness is everywhere. It’s a form of invisible suffering that is a universal part of being human. It’s also a trigger toward compulsive sex and possibly the fantasy to be rescued. We’re all lonely at one time or another, but how we respond to the loneliness is the key. Responding with acceptance, understanding and compassion will ease the pain inside. Cultivate emotionally-dependable connectio
Guest Podcast: Healing Early Trauma Through Somatic Experiencing and Brainspotting with Andrew Susskind
Today, Duane talks with Andrew Susskind about his book, It's Not About the Sex: Moving from Isolation to Intimacy after Sexual Addiction. They go into depth about attachment, emotional regulation, the need for reliable people to heal your traumatic wounds, and how we can do that when we're in recovery and still struggling with internal chaos.
Intimacy Avoidance - Susskind and Merlino
Scratch the surface of compulsive sexual behavior and you’ll find intimacy avoidance. Andrew and Sue take a closer look at what is often referred to as love avoidance (aka avoidant attachment pattern) which acts as a survival strategy but eventually outlasts its purpose. Tune in to discover how this attachment style may apply to you.
Porn Brain Rewire - Dr. Trish Leigh and Andrew Susskind
Porn Brain Reboot podcast: Andrew is a featured guest as Dr. Trish Leigh focuses this interview on his book It’s Not About the Sex with a special emphasis on the chapters related to shame, grief, narcissism and codependency.
The Curious Voyage - Cynthia Schwartzberg, LCSW
In this podcast we welcome Cynthia Schwartzberg who is a licensed clinical social worker and Brainspotting trainer based in Atlanta. She is the author of The Curious Voyage: A Rule-Breaking Guidebook to Authenticity which provides powerful exercises and insights that will strengthen your connection both to your truest self and to others. www.cynthasis.com or (917) 816-3534.
The Opposite of Addiction - Susskind and Merlino
Based on Johann Hari’s Ted Talk, Andrew and Sue explore the premise that “The opposite of addiction isn’t sobriety. The opposite of addiction is connection.” Andrew believes that emotional sobriety and nervous system regulation are pillars of connection and sustainable recovery. Listen to this episode as you put together the triad of connection for yourself: connection to self, connection to other
Sex, Money and Power - Debra Kaplan, MBA, CMAT, CSAT-S
Today’s podcast features psychotherapist and certified sex addiction therapist, Debra Kaplan who passionately discusses her work with couples on issues of “relational currency”, sexual and financial health and imbalances of power. Her recent book “Battle of the Titans: Mastering the Forces of Sex, Money and Power in Relationships” provides a basis for a lively exploration of how these elements mak
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