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
Got Consultation? - Susskind & Merlino [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:48
In this up close and personal episode, Andrew and Sue explore the challenges associated with asking for help. Andrew reviews his 30-year journey of not only learning how to ask for help but becoming more and more comfort…
Reigniting Intimate Connection - Linda Landon, PCC [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:39
As a certified life and recovery coach, Linda works extensively with couples interested in revitalizing their intimate, sexual connection. With a focus on deeper contact to self and to one another, Linda shares her respe…
The MindTravel Experience - Susskind & Merlino [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:51
Andrew and Sue discuss their recent experience on Santa Monica Beach entitled “MindTravel”. In this episode, they re-visit the theme of forgiveness which was the focal point of this multi-sensory experience. Spiritual? M…
Sexual Integrity - Dr. Steven Davidson [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:34
In this episode we discuss sexual integrity based on Dr. Davidson’s book of the same name. We also take a fresh look at the depathologizing language of compulsive sexual behavior rather than sex addiction. Dr. Davidson s…
Positive Psychology and Coaching - Susskind & Merlino [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:46
Did you know that the term Positive Psychology was coined less than twenty-five years ago? Although it’s one of the newer additions to the mental health field, it has taken its place as a refreshing, optimistic approach…
Self-Compassion Break - Susskind [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 6:26
Mindful self-compassion has taken the world by storm as a power tool for wellness and self-acceptance. Borrowing from the Self-Compassion. Break developed by Chris Germer and Kristin Neff, Andrew walks you through this e…
Interview with Sue Merlino [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:19
To celebrate our 75th episode, we turn the tables on our podcast producer, Sue Merlino as we discuss her career which has involved several twists and turns but always comes back to both storytelling and connection. As a…
Gut Health and Addiction - Edison DeMello, MD [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:45
Dr. Edison DeMello, an integrative physician and author of the recent groundbreaking book Bloated? joins us for an informative, mind-body-spirit discussion about how addictive, compulsive behaviors can be related to the…
Brainspotting - Susskind & Merlino [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:47
Today’s episode entitled Brainspotting: A Step by Step Approach goes behind the scenes and into an actual session. Although it’s a worldwide phenomenon utilized in more than 70 countries, Brainspotting remains a mystery…