It’s Not About the Sex

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 infidelities. www.billherring.com or www.sash.net. 

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 viewpoint on CSBD and the healing direction for the future.

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 partners but can be relevant to all your relationships.  

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 websites at www.askaboutfood.com and www.theeatingdisordertrap.com or by phone at (310) 273-0413.

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 connections and you will feel more soothing whenever you can use a shoulder to lean on. 
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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.