It’s Not About the Sex

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 and recovery.
 
Music credit: Neil Freebern Freebernmusic.com

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 this refreshing conversation that de-pathologizes and humanizes the healing process.
 
Music credit: Neil Freebern Freebernmusic.com

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 listen and see that it’s never too late to become more fluent in the world of emotions and deeper contact with others.
 
Music credit: Neil Freebern Freebernmusic.com

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 understanding of one’s aliveness. For more details, visit www.katiegriffinconsulting.com
 
Music credit: Neil Freebern Freebernmusic.com

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 regulation. Check out these user-friendly ways to get to know your nervous system as part of sustainable recovery.
 
Music credit: Neil Freebern Freebernmusic.com

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, effective approach. Visit www.david-fawcett.com and check out his recent book Sex Under the Influence for more in-depth exploration.
 
Music credit: Neil Freebern Freebernmusic.com

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.com or actioninstitute@mac.com.
 
Music credit: Neil Freebern Freebernmusic.com

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 and recovery.
 
Music credit: Neil Freebern Freebernmusic.com