It’s Not About the Sex

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 recovery.

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 film.

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 create a space to identify what you truly want and desire.
 
If you would like a copy of this exercise please send Andrew and email at: andrew@westsidetherapist.com

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 energizing discussion and begin to envision your trajectory. For more information about Jack Canfield's exercise email Andrew for more information: andrew@westsidetherapist.com

Beyond Anti-Depressants: TMS as an Alternative - Dr. Martha Koo

Today we welcome Dr. Martha Koo, Board Certified in Psychiatry andAddiction Medicine, who describes the treatment of depression withTranscranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Dr. Koo shares the history andcurrent usage of TMS with patients who have not responded effectivelywith antidepressants or ECT. This cutting-edge approach is a best-keptsecret in the mental health field so don’t miss this informative andresourceful episode.
https://neurowellnessspa.com/

Got Consultation? - Susskind & Merlino

In this up close and personal episode, Andrew and Sue explore thechallenges associated with asking for help. Andrew reviews his 30-yearjourney of not only learning how to ask for help but becoming more andmore comfortable seeking consultation from trusted friends, colleaguesand 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
professional experience, this conversation will take you up close and personal
toward the healing of sexual challenges.

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.