Posts in Sexuality
Unpacking Consent: Insights from Dr. Betty Martin’s Workshop
Unpacking Consent: Insights from Dr. Betty Martin’s Workshop

As we continue to engage in conversations about consent, it’s crucial to remember that it begins within us. It is about understanding our bodies, respecting our feelings, and making choices that align with our true desires. I am grateful for the insights gained from this workshop, as they not only enhance my clinical practice but also contribute to a more compassionate and just society.

I encourage my fellow clinicians and practitioners to explore the concepts presented by Dr. Betty Martin and Dr. Roger Kuhn. By doing so, we can collectively work towards a future where consent is not just an agreement but a fundamental right—a practice woven into the very fabric of our interactions, both personal and societal.

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For Clinicians, LGBTQIA+, Sex Therapy, Sexology, Sexuality, Somatic Psychology, Trauma HealingDenise RenyeDr. Betty Martin, Dr. Roger Kuhn, marin county sex therapist, marin couples counseling, marin county sexologist, marin county couples therapist, marin county, psychologist, bay area psychologist, bay area sexologist, bay area sex therapist, bay area therapist
Bay Area Sex Therapist Reveals How Trauma Shapes Our Need for Connection
Bay Area Sex Therapist Reveals How Trauma Shapes Our Need for Connection

It’s incredibly difficult to unwind the knot of trauma and process these fears, especially when it seems like the solution is just to couple up. However, that doesn’t address the root cause, or help the inner child because really what that wounded self is looking for is a parent. That scared part wants someone to be with them all the time to love them and take care of them. Even the best partners are only capable of so much because they, too, are human.

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Sex Therapy, Sexology, Sexuality, Somatic PsychologyDenise Renye
Bay Area Sex Therapist Explains Aromanticism
Bay Area Sex Therapist Explains Aromanticism

Aromantics can also experience love even if they don’t fall in love. In my work as a Bay Area sex therapist, I remind folx that love comes in all forms – there’s love for family, friends, pets, nature, the self. . .Romantic love is not the end-all-be-all form of love that our society makes it out to be. Aromanticism challenges societal norms that prioritize romantic relationships and offers a valid and fulfilling way of connecting with others on different levels.

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LGBTQIA+, Sex Therapy, Sexuality, SexologyDenise Renyearomantic, aromance, aromanticism, aseual, asexual, asexuality, ACE, bi, bisexual, lgbtquia+, bay area therapist, bay area sex therapist, bay area psychologist, san francisco bay area PTSD treatment of dissociation
Healing the Wounds of an Absent Father in the Puella Archetype: A Bay Area Psychologist's Exploration
Healing the Wounds of an Absent Father in the Puella Archetype: A Bay Area Psychologist's Exploration

As I learned during Susan E. Shwartz’s lecture, the journey of the puella is one of unfolding. It’s about moving from a place of dependency and fear into a state of self-awareness, confidence, and emotional maturity. The absence of a father may have left a deep mark on the psyche, but through depth therapy, individuals can heal the father wound, reclaim their inner authority, and step into a more empowered version of themselves.

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Sexuality, Trauma Healing, Psychology and Spirituality, For CliniciansDenise Renyemarin county sex therapist, Marin county EMDR therapist, marin couples thearpy, marin couples counseling, marin county couples therapy, marin county psychedelic therapist, marin county sexologist, marin county psychologist, bay area sexologist, bay area sex therapist, bay area psychologist, bay area therapist
The Impact of Grohl’s Affair: A Bay Area Sex Therapist’s View
The Impact of Grohl’s Affair: A Bay Area Sex Therapist’s View

This dynamic reflects the patriarchal system that often prioritizes men's desires and choices over the emotional well-being of women. Under patriarchy, infidelity is framed as a man's lapse in judgment, and women are seen as “victims” or “homewreckers,” rather than fully formed humans with agency. Patriarchy perpetuates the belief that men can seek fulfillment outside their commitments while women are left to deal with the fallout.

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Couples Therapy, Sex Therapy, Sexology, Sexuality, Trauma HealingDenise Renyedave grohl, infidelity, bay area sex therapist, marin county sex therapist, marin county couples therapy, marin county sexologist, marin couples counseling, marin couples thearpy
Unresolved Trauma and Its Impact on Current Relationships: A Perspective from Marin County EMDR therapist
Unresolved Trauma and Its Impact on Current Relationships: A Perspective from Marin County EMDR therapist

Trauma, whether emotional or physical, leaves an indelible mark on the psyche. Emotional abuse can include verbal attacks, emotional manipulation, and neglect of emotional needs. Physical abuse encompasses acts of violence or physical harm, while neglect involves the failure to meet basic emotional and physical needs. When these experiences remain unresolved, they create deep-seated fears and defensive mechanisms that can persist into adulthood. These fears often include anxiety about pain, abandonment, and rejection—experiences that were once life-threatening or profoundly hurtful.

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EMDR, Trauma Healing, Sexuality, Sex Therapy, SexologyDenise Renyemarin county sex therapist, Marin county EMDR therapist, emdr, EMDR, trauma, ptsd
Bay Area Sexologist Unveils SSRIs Sexual Side Effects
Bay Area Sexologist Unveils SSRIs Sexual Side Effects

Managing SSRI sexual side effects involves a comprehensive approach that includes medication management, lifestyle adjustments, psychological support, and sexual health education. By addressing these aspects, in my work as a Bay Area sexologist I support my clients in maintaining both their mental health and their sexual well-being, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and balanced life.

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Sex Therapy, Sexuality, SexologyDenise Renyemarin, marin county sex therapist, marin county sexologist, colorado sexologist, colorado sex therapist, marin county, marin county psychologist, marin couples counseling, marin county couples therapy, marin county CA, marin premarital counseling, EMDR therapist Marin county
Understanding Sex-Positive Therapy: A Comprehensive Approach
Understanding Sex-Positive Therapy: A Comprehensive Approach

If you’re interested in exploring how sex-positive therapy can support your journey towards greater sexual well-being and fulfillment, I invite you to connect with me. Together, we can work towards understanding and embracing your unique sexual identity, improving your relationships, and navigating any challenges you may face. For more information or to schedule a session, please visit my website. I look forward to working with you on this empowering path.

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Couples Therapy, Psychology and Spirituality, Sex Therapy, Sexuality, Somatic Psychology, Trauma HealingDenise RenyeSex, marin county, marin couples therapy, marin county sex therapist, marin couples thearpy, marin county psychedelic therapist, marin county psychologist
The Challenges of Being a Partner During Gender Transition
The Challenges of Being a Partner During Gender Transition

If you’re navigating the complexities of being a partner during a gender transition and need support, I’m here to help. As a sex therapist, I specialize in guiding individuals and couples through these challenging times. Reach out here to set up an appointment.

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Couples Therapy, Gender Openness, Psychology and Spirituality, Sex Therapy, Sexuality, LGBTQIA+, EMDRDenise Renyemarin county sex therapist, Marin county EMDR therapist, marin county psychologist, maring couples therapy
Are You Practicing Outercourse? It Can Enhance Your Sex Life
Are You Practicing Outercourse? It Can Enhance Your Sex Life

If you're interested in exploring how outercourse and other aspects of sexual intimacy can enhance your relationship with yourself or your partner, I can help. As a sex therapist, I specialize in guiding individuals and couples through these important conversations and experiences. Reach out here to set up an appointment and start your journey towards a more fulfilling sexual and intimate life.

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Couples Therapy, Sexuality, Sex Therapy, Trauma Healing, LGBTQIA+Denise Renyemarin county sex therapist, Marin county EMDR therapist, marin county sexologist, marin county psychologist, maring couples therapy
Are More Men Scared of Intimacy Than Women?
Are More Men Scared of Intimacy Than Women?

As the patriarchy is crumbling and the divine feminine is rising, we’re seeing more public examples of men who are bucking the “traditional” masculine way of being that eschews vulnerability and intimacy. They are challenging the status quo perception of masculinity and that means their partners are forced to confront their own ingrained beliefs as well.

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Sex Therapy, Sexuality, SexologyDenise Renyemarin county sex therapist, marin county sexologist
Navigating Transitions: How Therapy Can Support You Through the Back-to-School Season
Navigating Transitions: How Therapy Can Support You Through the Back-to-School Season

As a Marin county psychologist and sex therapist, I encourage you to consider therapy as a valuable resource during this transitional time. Whether you're dealing with empty nest syndrome, relationship changes, or the stress of the season, therapy can offer the guidance and support needed to maintain emotional well-being, intimacy, and sexual health. Embrace these changes with confidence, knowing that you have the tools to navigate them successfully.

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Couples Therapy, Sex Therapy, SexualityDenise Renyemarin county sex therapist, marin, marin county sexologist, marin county psychologist, back to school, therapy back to school, back to school lonliness, parenting, good enough parent, empty nest syndrome
How the ‘Sexual Attitude Reassessment’ Shapes Competent Sex Therapists
How the ‘Sexual Attitude Reassessment’ Shapes Competent Sex Therapists

During my time at Widener, SAR was an integral part of the curriculum, providing an opportunity to confront personal biases, challenge societal norms, and explore the wide spectrum of sexual expression. The experience was both confronting and liberating as it pushed us students to recognize and dismantle any prejudices or discomforts we might have had around certain sexual topics or behaviors.

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Couples Therapy, Sex Therapy, Sexuality, LGBTQIA+Denise RenyeAASECT, sex therapist, marin county CA, marin county sex therapist, marin county sexologist, marin county psychologist, SAR, Sexual Attitude Reassessment
A Bay Area Sex Therapist’s Guide to Understanding Foot Fetishes
A Bay Area Sex Therapist’s Guide to Understanding Foot Fetishes

In a sex-positive framework, which I practice as a Bay Area sex therapist and psychologist, consensual adult sexual expressions are valid and worthy of respect. This means I view foot fetishes not as a disorder or abnormality but as a natural variation of human sexuality. The sex-positive approach is grounded in the belief that sexual diversity is a normal and healthy part of life. It challenges the notion that only certain types of sexual expressions are acceptable and encourages people to explore and express their sexuality in ways that feel authentic and fulfilling to them.

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Sex Therapy, Sexuality, SexologyDenise Renyefoot fetish, marin county sex therapist, bay area sex therapist, bay area therapist, bay area psychologist, Marin county EMDR therapist, fetish, kink, kinky sex
Bay Area Sex Therapist Unveils How Older People Can Embrace Sexuality Through Psychedelics
Bay Area Sex Therapist Unveils How Older People Can Embrace Sexuality Through Psychedelics

For older people who had psychedelic experiences in their earlier years, those memories can serve as profound touchstones for current self-exploration and healing. The essence of those experiences—whether a sense of unity, deep emotional release, or a transcendent connection to something greater—can be revisited and integrated into present-day life. This process can be particularly enriching when addressing aspects of senior sexuality.

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Body Movement, Couples Therapy, Sex Therapy, SexualityDenise Renyepsychedelic assisted therpy, psychedelic integration, psychedelics and sexuality, marin county sexologist, marin county sex therapist, marin county, marin county psychologist, marin county CA, psychedelics, seniors and sex, sexy seniors, sex over 50, sex over 60, sex over 70, sex over 80, sex over 90, older people and sexuality
Honoring Sex Therapist Dr. Ruth
Honoring Sex Therapist Dr. Ruth

It was in the 1980s when she became a celebrity, frankly discussing sex on her popular late-night radio show, Sexually Speaking. She was in her 50s at that time, a Crone. So often, women at that age and stage of life face ageism and are portrayed as asexual or “dried up.” When sex is discussed for elderly folx, it’s often as a punchline. Dr. Ruth showed that sex remains important in midlife and beyond.

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Sex Therapy, SexualityDenise Renyemarin county sex therapist, Marin county EMDR therapist, marin county sexologist, marin county psychologist, psychologist, sex therapist, colorado sex therapist, colorado sexologist, Dr. Ruth
Marin County Sexologist Reveals 8 Tips for Sex Positivity
Marin County Sexologist Reveals 8 Tips for Sex Positivity

We live in a society where trans folx are under attack just for being themselves which means there are unique challenges to exploring their sexuality such as body dysphoria, societal stigma, and limited access to affirming sexual health resources. As a Marin County sexologist, I’m an advocate for everyone having a healthy, satisfying sex life, and that includes trans folx. What follows are eight tips for how to do that.

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Sex Therapy, SexualityDenise Renyemarin county sex therapist, Marin county EMDR therapist, marin county sexologist, marin county, marin county CA, sexology, bay area sexologist, bay area psychologist, bay area therapist, san francisco bay area PTSD treatment of dissociation, trans rights, lgbtquia+
The Erasure of Bisexuality and Why It Matters
The Erasure of Bisexuality and Why It Matters

Promoting bisexual visibility is essential. Positive representation in media, literature, and public discourse can help normalize bisexuality and provide role models for those struggling with their identity. By seeing their experiences reflected and validated, bisexual individuals can gain the confidence to embrace their true selves.

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Bisexuality, LGBTQIA+, Sexuality, Sex Therapy, Trauma HealingDenise Renyebisexual, bisexuality, bi, biphobia, marin county sex therapist, marin county sexologist, marin county, marin county psychologist, maring couples therapy, Marin county EMDR therapist
Corporate Sponsorship vs. Genuine Support During Pride
Corporate Sponsorship vs. Genuine Support During Pride

LGBTQIA+ organizations must maintain their autonomy and grassroots connections while engaging with corporate partners thoughtfully. Consumers, in turn, can support businesses that demonstrate genuine commitment to diversity and inclusion beyond Pride Month. Far too many, like Target, are fair-weather friends.

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LGBTQIA+, SexualityDenise Renyemarin county sex therapist, Marin county EMDR therapist, marin county sexologist, marin county, marin county psychologist, maring couples therapy, marin county CA, EMDR therapist Marin county, couples therapy marin county, lgbtquia+, pride month 2024, pride
How to Add More Intimacy to Your Sex Life
How to Add More Intimacy to Your Sex Life

The key to a more intimate sex life is open communication, mutual respect, and a willingness to explore and connect with your partner on multiple levels. It's important to understand each other's needs and desires and to create an environment that encourages trust and vulnerability. 

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Couples Therapy, Sex Therapy, Sexuality, Somatic Psychology, SexologyDenise Renyemarin county sex therapist, marin county sexologist, maring couples therapy, marin county psychologist, marin county CA, marin premarital counseling, EMDR therapist Marin county, couples therapy marin county, marin county, healthy relationships, emotionally unavailable, emotional intelligence, emotional availability