Sexuality is about so much more than the genitals and hormones. It is the intersection of nature and nurture, physical body (genetics, hormones, genitals), mental health and behavior, trauma history, environment, relationship with body/self/partner(s)/family, creativity, spirituality, culture (as well as religious and political influences, including historical, and all the related social justice limitations here). It can incorporate relationship diversity too (ex. monogamy, ethical nonmonogamy, etc). Sexuality is fluid – it changes throughout our lives; influenced by our changing tastes, bodies, and understanding of ourselves and others, our sexuality will grow and change as we do.
Within this diversity and fluidity, sexuality is a central aspect of being human throughout life (see WAS, 2014), and as such, impacts health, quality of life, and wellness.
If you grew up in the US, we are faced with a sex-obsessed, shame-filled, and sex-negative culture, which makes it incredibly challenging to navigate our sexuality in a self-directed way. Further, our sexuality education in the US has been abysmal, and adults need on-going sexuality education that is accurate and not sensationalized or fictional (such as found on social media or as a part of lower quality adult entertainment).
But where can people get assistance with their questions and educational needs regarding sex? Sexuality educators, counselors, and therapists. I am a trained sexuality educator and counselor and am available for one-on-one and group sessions, including book clubs, discussions around pleasure, and workshops for the community. For more information, please see my Events page, Private Client Information page, and/or contact me at ignitewellbeing.naperville@gmail.com
……………………………………………
Information on complementary and integrative health and wellness modalities, specific to sexual well-being is listed below, as well as more information on how I became a professional in the field of sexology and sexual health. Please see the other main pages for information on additional modalities
– Do Better: https://ignitewell-being.com/do-better/
– How did I get here? https://ignitewell-being.com/how-did-i-get-into-sexuality-counseling-and-education/
– Myth-busting Monday: https://ignitewell-being.com/myth-busting-monday/
– New Moon Circles, Naperville: https://ignitewell-being.com/new-moon-circles-naperville/
– Pleasure Café: https://ignitewell-being.com/pleasure-cafe/
– Savor Book Club: https://ignitewell-being.com/book-reviews/
– Sexuality Counseling: https://ignitewell-being.com/what-is-sexuality-counseling/
– S e x-Positive Parenting (currently on hold): https://ignitewell-being.com/sex-positive-parenting/
– Working in Sexual Wellness: https://ignitewell-being.com/working-in-sexual-wellness/
– Yoga and Mindfulness for Sensuality (currently on hold): https://ignitewell-being.com/yoga-and-mindfulness-for-sensuality/
*Please note that none of the above information is specific medical advice, but are educational resources. If you have concerns about your health, please contact a trusted healthcare professional*
………………………………………………………………
The above content is written by Dr. Allison Mitch, PT (DPT), trained sexuality counselor and educator; copyright protected, please cite accordingly. The picture is from Pexels. To work with me or for more information, please email ignitewellbeing.naperville@gmail.com