It’s Not About the Sex

Addict America: The Lost Connection - Dr. Carol Clark

Today’s podcast features Dr. Carol Clark, sex therapist, addictions specialist and author who discusses addiction as a universal problem. She also explores the intersection of sex, relationships and intimacy in the context of addiction recovery. You may contact Dr. Clark by email at counselor@drcarolclark.com or through her websites at www.drcarolclark.com and www.addictamerica.net.

Sex Addiction No More - Susskind and Merlino

In this podcast we take a closer look at the often-misunderstood term sex addiction in contrast to the  World Health Organization’s classification of compulsive sexual behavior. Through Andrew’s personal and professional experience, we discuss the historical context, the sexual health approach as well as the controversy over the conflicting language still at odds.

Polyvagal Theory & Internal Family Systems - Terra Holbrook, LCSW, CADC, CSAT

Today’s podcast features psychotherapist, workshop leader and speaker, Terra Holbrook, LCSW, CADC, CSAT who brings a unique healing approach to early childhood toxic stress. By utilizing Polyvagal Theory and Internal Family Systems (aka Parts Work), Terra focuses on the healing of deep-rooted intimacy wounds. You may contact Terra through her website at www.terraholbrook.com or email at terra@terraholbrook.com. Phone: (208) 520-5695

Fantasy as a Survival Strategy - Susskind & Merlino

In twelve-step programs such as SLAA, fantasy is often labeled as a problem. Yet, it may also be an adaptive way to cope with a complicated childhood or trauma. So how can fantasy be a pleasurable, liberating experience? Tune in to this episode to learn more about this expansive subject and see how building the capacity for healthy fantasy is a sure-fire sign of advanced recovery.

30 years in Review: 1991-2021 - Susskind and Merlino

This month marks thirty years since Andrew finished his graduate school experience at UCLA, and this podcast takes a clinical stroll down memory lane. From his roots in traditional talk therapy moving on to coaching, somatic therapies and group therapy, Andrew explores the evolution of the mental health field as well as his unexpected career path. Sprinkled into the conversation is his view on compulsive sexual behavior circa 1991 versus today.

Reimagining Midlife - Buck Dodson

In this podcast, we welcome an old friend and colleague, Buck Dodson who is a life coach and licensed psychotherapist passionate about helping clients share their gifts and activate their superpowers. Buck hosts the Gay Men’s Life Lab podcast and can be reached through his website at www.buckdodson.com.

Grounding Exercise

Many people find it challenging to start a meditation practice. In this “mini-meditation” Andrew will lead you through a brief Grounding exercise that takes less than 5 minutes of your time. Give it a try and see what happens.

Out of Control Sexual Behavior - Douglas Braun-Harvey MFT, CGP

In this informative podcast, we welcome San Diego-based sexual health author, trainer, and psychotherapist, Douglas Braun-Harvey. His recent book “Treating Out of Control Sexual Behavior: Rethinking Sex Addiction” sets the stage for a lively discussion about his sexual health model. Braun-Harvey offers us easy-to-understand ways of conceptualizing out of control sexual behaviors as a sexual health problem and not a disease or addiction. Tune in for this very educational and articulate conversation.

Taming the Inner Critic - Susskind and Merlino

Today we take a closer look at the inner critic that exists within each of us and often gets entangled with shame and perfectionism. Because you learned in childhood how to judge yourself, you can also learn to cultivate self-acceptance and self-compassion in your recovery today. By observing yourself with curiosity, you can explore how your inner saboteur might have served a purpose but has outlasted its welcome. Tune in to learn more about turning down the volume on the inner critic while practicing self-compassion. 

Straight Men Who Have Sex with Men - Dr. Joe Kort, Ph.D

In this podcast, we welcome Dr. Joe Kort, licensed psychotherapist, author, anda board-certified sexologist. He is the founder and director of the Center forRelational and Sexual Health in Royal Oak, Michigan. Dr. Kort discusses the often-overlooked topic of Straight Men Who Have Sex with Men and explores sexualfluidity, erotic vs. sexual orientation as well as the stigma associated with straight-identified men who enjoy specific sexual acts with other men. Join us for thisinformative and honest sexual health conversation.