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
Gratitude Guided Imagery [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 5:39
Nowadays you hear more and more about gratitude, but how do you integrate it into your daily life? In this episode Andrew leads you through a 5-minute guided imagery focusing on appreciation of life, yourself and loved o…
The Eating Disorder Trap - Robyn Goldberg, RDN [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:26
Today we welcome Robyn Goldberg, RDN, CEDRD-S, registered dietician and author who helps us understand eating disorders and disordered eating in a friendly, easy-to-digest manner. With more than two decades of experience…
Lonely for the Holidays - Susskind and Merlino [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:14
Loneliness is everywhere. It’s a form of invisible suffering that is a universal part of being human. It’s also a trigger toward compulsive sex and possibly the fantasy to be rescued. We’re all lonely at one time or anot…
Intimacy Avoidance - Susskind and Merlino [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:17
Scratch the surface of compulsive sexual behavior and you’ll find intimacy avoidance. Andrew and Sue take a closer look at what is often referred to as love avoidance (aka avoidant attachment pattern) which acts as a sur…
Porn Brain Rewire - Dr. Trish Leigh and Andrew Susskind [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:02
Porn Brain Reboot podcast: Andrew is a featured guest as Dr. Trish Leigh focuses this interview on his book It’s Not About the Sex with a special emphasis on the chapters related to shame, grief, narcissism and codepende…
The Curious Voyage - Cynthia Schwartzberg, LCSW [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:26
In this podcast we welcome Cynthia Schwartzberg who is a licensed clinical social worker and Brainspotting trainer based in Atlanta. She is the author of The Curious Voyage: A Rule-Breaking Guidebook to Authenticity whic…
The Opposite of Addiction - Susskind and Merlino [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:20
Based on Johann Hari’s Ted Talk, Andrew and Sue explore the premise that “The opposite of addiction isn’t sobriety. The opposite of addiction is connection.” Andrew believes that emotional sobriety and nervous system reg…
Sex, Money and Power - Debra Kaplan, MBA, CMAT, CSAT-S [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:17
Today’s podcast features psychotherapist and certified sex addiction therapist, Debra Kaplan who passionately discusses her work with couples on issues of “relational currency”, sexual and financial health and imbalances…
Addict America: The Lost Connection - Dr. Carol Clark [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:37
Today’s podcast features Dr. Carol Clark, sex therapist, addictions specialist and author who discusses addiction as a universal problem. She also explores the intersection of sex, relationships and intimacy in the conte…