It’s Not About the Sex

It’s Not About the Sex

Author: Westside Therapist Language: English Episodes: 100
Hosted by psychotherapist Andrew Susskind of Westside Therapist, It’s Not About the Sex explores the deeper emotional landscapes that often drive compulsive behaviors. While the title might suggest one topic, the conversations consistently move beneath the surface to examine core human experiences like shame, unresolved grief, and codependency. This podcast, an extension of Andrew's book, provides a thoughtful space where listeners can understand how out-of-control actions are frequently misguided attempts to mend a sense of broken-heartedness. Each episode breaks down complex psychological concepts into relatable discussions, making the journey toward self-improvement feel more accessible and less isolating. By framing issues of sexuality and relationships within the context of mental health and emotional fitness, the show offers a unique perspective on personal growth. You'll hear honest explorations of how patterns of narcissism and emotional dependency shape our lives, alongside practical insights for fostering healthier connections with oneself and others. Tuning in provides more than just information; it’s an invitation to reflect on the underlying narratives that influence daily choices, all from a place of professional expertise and genuine compassion. This is a podcast dedicated to the idea that healing begins when we look past the symptom to address the root cause.
Episodes
The ABC’s of Dual Diagnosis - Susskind & Merlino [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:11
Dual Diagnosis? Co-occurring Disorders? Today we explore how these terms originated and how they are commonly used within the medical model. Because they don’t take into account the complexities of trauma, nervous system…
Cutting-Edge Treatment for Chronic Pain - Dr. Mel Pohl [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:53
In this episode we welcome Dr. Mel Pohl, a seasoned addiction and chronic pain physician in the field for more than forty years. He is the Senior Medical Consultant at the Pointe Malibu Recovery Center, Clinical Assistan…
A Day at the Beach - Guided Imagery [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 7:47
Today Andrew offers a short, guided imagery called A Day at the Beach. Take this opportunity to give yourself a few minutes to visit a favorite place from your past—a mini-vacation of relaxation.
Demystifying Group Therapy - Susskind and  Merlino [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:20
In this episode Andrew and Sue travel behind the scenes of group therapy to take a closer look at the opportunity to learn about oneself side-by- side with others invested in growing together. Group therapy is one of the…
Chinese Medicine and Trauma - Dr. Lucy Postolov DACM, L.Ac. [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:50
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…
A Peaceful Place Guided Meditation - Susskind [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 8:35
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-…
Assessing Problematic Sexual Behavior - Bill Herring, LCSW, CSAT [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:33
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 appl…
Current Research Behind Compulsive Sexual Behavior - Dr. Shane Kraus [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:39
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 classi…
Examining the Five Love Languages [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:02
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…