Reclaiming Passion and Sexual Pleasure through Somatics with Dr Holly Richmond

In This Body

Join Ailey Jolie and Dr Holly Richmond, a Somatic Psychotherapist, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT), Certified Sex Therapist (CST) and Certified Sex Therapy Supervisor, for this episode of In This Body. Dr Holly shares her experience at the Santa Barbara Rape Crisis Center which propelled her to pursue advanced education in somatic psychology and sex therapy. She discusses the importance of integrating somatic approaches with cognitive skills and education in therapeutic practices. Ailey and Dr Holly delve into the unique challenges faced by sexual trauma survivors, highlighting the need for specialized therapy. Dr Holly outlines several somatic interventions and how they aid clients in regaining control, experiencing pleasure, and fostering reconnection with their bodies. Ailey and Dr Holly discuss practical advice for both survivors seeking therapy and clinicians wanting to enhance their practice with somatic and sex-positive approaches.This is a fantastic episode that leaves no question unanswered. We hope you enjoy the episode.

In this episode:

01:04 Pursuing Somatics and Embodiment

02:09 Integrating Cognitive and Somatic Therapies

04:17 Understanding Different Therapy Specializations

07:10 The Importance of Pleasure in Therapy

08:58 Reclaiming Pleasure: A Guide for Survivors

10:37 Control, Pleasure, and Connection in Healing

15:08 Addressing Sexual Trauma and the Healing Journey

22:03 Navigating Sexual Frustration and Control

22:30 Understanding Somatic Awareness

22:55 Techniques for Body Awareness

25:50 Addressing Cultural and Psychological Barriers

26:35 Importance of Embodiment in Sexuality

28:07 Creating a Safe Environment for Healing

30:00 Mindfulness Alternatives to Meditation

31:30 Somatic Homework and Community Engagement

33:31 Clinician Challenges and Education Gaps

37:38 Addressing Sexual Trauma and Shame

41:19 Common Misconceptions About Sexuality

42:21 Final Thoughts on Body Awareness and Healing

You can read the show transcript here: https://share.descript.com/view/89k2OJy1MT7

To find out more about Holly:

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Learn more about Ailey Jolie:

• Find: Website
• Follow: Instagram
• Explore: Substack
• Experience: Online Course
• Email: [e-mail]

To follow along with the In This Body podcast:

• Follow: Instagram
• Find: Website
• Email: [e-mail]