Self-Led in Bed: An IFS and Sexuality Podcast

“Like it literally felt like my body was vibrating with energy. Like the whole body experience of Self Energy. ” - Mary HartDisclaimer: This episode contains sexual content. Listener discretion is advised.Patty talks to Mary Hart, an IFS Level 3 Certified Practitioner, about her personal journey toward Self-Led Sexuality and authentic living which has been informed  by IFS, the Wheel of Consent, and The Six S’s of Sexual Self Energy Framework™ which she discovered as a participant in one of Patty’s first BeHold and Lead your Internal Sexual System (BLISS)™ programs. From a Catholic upbringing with a focus on “doing for” others, Mary shares how hard it was to know what she really wanted in bed and beyond, and to claim that. She opens up about how she slowly got to know her parts and how her first experience of Self truly showing up for her polarized parts was expansive, visual and profoundly connecting, which Patty noted sounded similar to some orgasms. Mary and Patty explore how The Six S’s align with what happened to her and Mary found a great deal of resonance.The conversation explores internal consent, engaging in small experiments of self–discovery, , and creating win-win-win outcomes in relationships. Mary reflects on safe containers for her like cuddle parties and ecstatic dance, which allowed her to move authentically, and how presencing positive experiences—like singing in harmony—accesses Self Energy and fosters healing. This episode is a gentle invitation to explore your own system with compassionMary Hart is an Internal Family Systems Level 3 Certified Practitioner, trained workshop facilitator, and Certified Trauma Recovery Practitioner. With over 20 years studying the Wheel of Consent, she values moving at the speed of trust and caring for the most tender parts. Mary brings authenticity and vulnerability to trauma-informed healing, using interpersonal neurobiology, co-regulation, and attunement to support personal and collective transformation.Connect with Mary: www.harttoheartcoaching.comFollow Patricia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patriciarichconsulting/Join the Self-Led Sexuality Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/selfleds3xualitywithpatriciarichSign up for Patricia’s email list and get the free The Six S's of Sexual Self-Energy Infographic.

“My pleasure ceiling used to be at about a tablespoon, and then it went up to a cup, and then it went up to a quart, and then it went up to a gallon, and now it's an ocean.” – Betty MartinDisclaimer: This episode contains discussions of touch, consent, sexual activity and sex work. Listener discretion is advised.Patricia welcomes Betty Martin, creator of the internationally taught Wheel of Consent, to explore how this transformative practice intersects with Internal Family Systems (IFS). Betty shares her journey from chiropractor to sexological bodyworker and intimacy coach. She shares how her observations of her clients’ difficulties knowing what they wanted led to developing the Wheel, a model that distinguishes between "who is doing" and "who it's for" in touch dynamics, enabling clarity, confidence, and embodied pleasure.The conversation delves into the Wheel's four quadrants—serving, taking, accepting, and allowing—and how they relate to IFS concepts like protector parts, legacy burdens, and Self Energy. Betty and Patty discuss how the Wheel helps build internal awareness, negotiate consent, and overcome patterned responses that are not aligned with authentic pleasure. They emphasize the importance of slowing down to notice body sensations and build trust with protective parts, and the radical impact that claiming one’s erotic truth can have on living an empowered life.They address common challenges, such as blending with parts during touch, the impact of trauma on consent, and the role of the Wheel in professional settings like therapy and bodywork. Betty reflects on her retirement from hands-on work and the evolution of the School of Consent, highlighting the practice's applicability beyond touch to everyday interactions.About Dr. Betty Martin: Betty is a chiropractor, facilitator, intimacy coach, teacher, author, and founder of the School of Consent. She developed the Wheel of Consent, a groundbreaking model and practice for clarity in touch and consent, drawing from her decades of experience in bodywork and somatics. She lives in a community, is a mother of three, and grandmother of two.Connect with Betty:Website: http://bettymartin.org/Book: https://www.wheelofconsentbook.com/School of Consent: https://www.schoolofconsent.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drbettymartin/Wheel of Consent Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewheelofconsent/Follow Patricia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patriciarichconsulting/Join the Self-Led Sexuality Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/selfleds3xualitywithpatriciarichSign up for Patricia’s email list and get the free The Six S's of Sexual Self-Energy Infographic.

“There's often lots of confusion that people have about why they feel the way they do sexually, and a lot of delicate kinds of negotiating with your partner. And so I think the model really does help free people up to... ask these inner questions to find out why parts are interfering or why their proclivities are what they are." Dr. Richard SchwartzDisclaimer: This episode contains topics related to sexual activity, anatomy, and abuse and listener discretion is advised.In this episode of the Self-led in Bed podcast, Patricia welcomes Dr. Richard Schwartz, the founder of Internal Family Systems (IFS), to discuss how IFS can be a transformative tool for navigating the complexities of sexuality, healing sexual trauma, and fostering Self-led intimacy. The conversation explores how IFS helps individuals understand and work with their sexual parts, addressing both personal and relational dilemmas, from everyday sexual challenges to profound wounds caused by abuse.Patricia and Dick delve into the ways IFS supports people in exploring their sexual identities, desires, and boundaries, particularly in the context of societal stigma, religious burdens, and cultural pressures. They discuss how protective parts may use sexuality to manage or suppress exiled parts carrying shame or trauma, and how Self Energy can create a safe space for internal consent and authentic connection. Dick shares insights from his work with survivors of sexual abuse, individuals with complex sexual identities, and those navigating kink or taboo attractions, emphasizing the importance of depolarizing internal conflicts and healing exiles stuck in past wounds. The episode also touches on the role of sexuality as a source of joy, creativity, and relational intimacy.About Dr. Richard Schwartz: He is the creator of Internal Family Systems (IFS), a transformative, evidence-based model of psychotherapy. Based outside Chicago, Illinois, he has dedicated his career to helping individuals heal from trauma and navigate complex internal systems. Dr. Schwartz has authored numerous books, including No Bad Parts, and has trained thousands of therapists worldwide in the IFS model. His work emphasizes the inherent value of all parts and the healing power of Self Energy.Connect with Dr. Schwartz: Website: https://ifs-institute.com Follow Patricia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patriciarichconsulting/Join the Self-Led Sexuality Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/selfleds3xualitywithpatriciarichSign up for Patricia’s email list and get the free The Six S's of Sexual Self-Energy Infographic.

“What if your internal conflicts weren’t a problem to fix, but an invitation to listen and love yourself more deeply?” Patricia RichAre you wondering what the heck is IFS? And what does it have to do with sexuality? In this special solo episode closing out Season One of Self-Led in Bed, Patricia shares a clear and heartfelt introduction to IFS, starting with what it actually is and how it is being applied in diverse contexts, and then sharing the story of how it was birthed and developed by Richard Schwartz, and why she believes this model is such a powerful framework for exploring sexuality for purposes of healing, health, pleasure,empowerment, and more. Whether you're completely new to IFS or already familiar with its language, this episode offers an accessible invitation to begin relating to your inner world in a different way.Patricia unpacks the concept of “parts,” explains the qualities of Self, and explores how internal conflicts—especially around sex—are often guided by protective patterns that make emotional sense. She also shares how IFS can help us stop pathologizing ourselves and start cultivating compassionate curiosity, even with the parts that carry pain, shame, or confusion.This episode is a great starting place if you’ve ever wondered what “Self-Led Sexuality” really means—and how it can support more connection, choice, and ease in your body and relationships.Patricia also announces a short break during August and reflects on some of the incredible conversations from Season One.Follow Patricia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patriciarichconsulting/Join the Self-Led Sexuality Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/selfleds3xualitywithpatriciarichSign up for Patricia’s email list and get the free The Six S's of Sexual Self-Energy Infographic.

“Sexual health is about being in your body now and finding pleasure in the present moment.” – Dr. Pebble KranzDisclaimer: This episode contains discussion of sexuality,  genitals, menopause, and related topics. Listener discretion is advised.Moodiness, hot flashes, poor sleep, libido shifts…the menopausal transition which half the world’s population will experience goes smoothly for some women and can wreak havoc for others, disrupting their  sense of self, emotional stability, and sexual satisfaction. While menopause is starting to come out of the closet in popular culture, there are still far too few medical providers who know when to bring it up, what to ask, how to listen, and what options are most helpful for the emotional, physical, and sexual well-being of their patients. Today’s guest shows us how different this can be. Not only is  Dr. Pebble Kranz a Family Physician and a Sexual and Menopause Medicine Specialist, she also is IFS-informed and brings compassionate and affirming  care to her patients of all genders. Pebble shares her journey from theater to family medicine , driven by a passion for stories. The conversation delves into the lack of medical training around sexual health, the impact of menopause on physical and emotional well-being, and the transformative power of trauma-informed pelvic exams. Pebble offers practical insights, including three key questions to center patients’ sexual  goals and desires, and emphasizes the importance of present-moment pleasure and self-advocacy in medical settings.Pebble Kranz, MD, FECSM, IF, MSCP  graduated from Brown University's Medical School in 2007 and completed residency with the University of Rochester Family Medicine Residency Program in 2011. After serving as residency faculty and a primary care doctor for the University of Rochester, Dr. Kranz pursued additional training in sexual, menopause, and gender medicine, earning fellowships from the European Committee on Sexual Medicine, the International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health, certification from the Menopause Society as a menopause medicine practitioner, as well as status as an Advanced Practitioner in Optimal Sexual Experiences Group Couples Therapy. She serves on the board of the Scientific Network on Female Sexual Health and Cancer and is a consultant to the University of Rochester’s Pluta Breast Center’s Sexual Wellness Clinic. She is founder and medical director for The Rochester Center for Sexual Wellness, providing comprehensive care for sexual, relational, and gender concerns in Western New York.  Dr. Kranz is committed to educating healthcare professionals at all levels and the community on medical care for sexual concerns.Connect with Pebble:www.RochesterCenterForSexualWellness.comhttps://www.facebook.com/rochestercswhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/pebble-kranz-md/https://www.instagram.com/rochestersexualwellness/Follow Patricia on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/patriciarichconsulting/Join the Self-Led Sexuality Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/selfleds3xualitywithpatriciarichSign up for Patricia’s email list and get the free The Six S's of Sexual Self-Energy Infographic.

“I can find parts that identify as women, parts that identify as drag queens, parts that identify as men, parts that identify as neither of them…parts that identify as androgynous, there is like a huge variety. So for me that distinction [between sexuality and gender] allowed a lot more variety inside.” Alessio RizzoDisclaimer: This episode contains discussions of gender, sexuality, and societal oppression.. Listener discretion is advised.In this episode of the *Self-led in Bed* podcast, Patty welcomes Alessio Rizzo, an IFS Institute Trainer & Approved Clinical Consultant, Content Creator and Podcaster to explore the intersections of gender, sexuality, and neurodiversity through the lens of Internal Family Systems (IFS). Meeting for the first time, Patty and Alessio share a dynamic conversation about how IFS can foster curiosity, self-acceptance, and liberation when navigating complex and marginalized identities.Alessio shares his personal journey as a gender-fluid, gay, neurodivergent person of Italian origin, currently living in the UK, highlighting the burdens of gender non-conformity and societal expectations from childhood. He discusses the liberation of distinguishing gender expression from sexual orientation within his system, allowing parts to embody diverse gender identities—such as drag queens, androgynous, or non-gendered—while his sexual orientation remains consistent. The conversation delves into the concept of “neuroqueering,” the overlap between neurodivergence and queerness, and how IFS supports internal multiplicity, freeing individuals from rigid labels. They address the current global climate of oppression affecting queer and trans communities, emphasizing the importance of safe spaces like Alessio’s upcoming *Gender Journeys* workshop, which focuses on processing disenfranchised grief from suppressed gender expressions. Alessio and Patty also reflect on the nature of Self-Energy, the interplay of embodied and transcendent aspects, and the power of exploring identity with the consent of the system.About Alessio Rizzo: Alessio Rizzo (He / They) is an IFS Trainer, educator, author and content creator. His IFS blogs (therapywithalessio.com) reach thousands of readers every month and he is co-producing the "Queering IFS" podcast, in which he explores how IFS interfaces with gender, sexuality and neurodiversity. Alessio identifies as  gay, genderfluid and neurodivergent. Amongst his contributions to the IFS field, Alessio has created dyslexia-friendly infographics (which can be found on his website) as well as educational content on Polyamory and Kink from an IFS perspective.Connect with Alessio: www.therapywithalessio.comFollow Patricia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patriciarichconsulting/Join the Self-Led Sexuality Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/selfleds3xualitywithpatriciarichSign up for Patricia’s email list and get the free The Six S's of Sexual Self-Energy Infographic.

“There is a possibility of intimacy after domestic violence... I want people to know that healing is possible after trauma.” – Achara TarfaDisclaimer: This episode contains explicit descriptions of domestic violence, sexual abuse, and trauma. Listener discretion is advised.Reclaiming emotional and sexual intimacy after leaving a profoundly abusive relationship may seem impossible, but it can happen with patience and access to inner and outer resources. Patty welcomes Achara Tarfa, a trauma survivor, L3 Internal Family Systems Practitioner, Co-Founder of the Global Trauma Institute and President of PATH, to share how Internal Family Systems (IFS) helped her rebuild safety, trust, and connection with her body and her current partner.This episode delves into Achara’s experience in an abusive relationship marked by physical, psychological, and sexual violation, and how these experiences were later understood through an IFS lens. It addresses the societal and religious pressures that reinforced shame and self-blame and loyalty, how a female pastor’s words finally validated her right to leave, and the slow and gradual process of getting out.Achara then shares the story of connecting with her current husband, an old college friend, and the slow, intentional process of building trust and intimacy. The conversation highlights the role of IFS in helping Achara befriend her body, move from performative sex to body-led pleasure, and release shame around experiencing joy. Achara offers practical advice for survivors and underscores the transformative power of Self Energy in relationships, where speaking for parts fosters deeper emotional and physical connection.About Achara: Achara Tarfa is a Level 3 IFS Practitioner, speaker, and co-founder of the Global Trauma Institute. For over 30 years, she’s worked across education, faith-based, and community spaces to make healing more culturally responsive and accessible to the global majority.She’s also President of PATH, an international addiction recovery community, and co-host of Courageous Custody, a podcast exploring high-conflict custody battles through an IFS lens. Through her private practice and consulting work, Achara supports individuals and professionals in trauma recovery, self-compassion, and unburdening journeys.As an elected District Supervisor, she brings a trauma-informed lens to public service, championing healing and resilience in both personal and systemic spaces.Connect with Achara: Website: https://www.acharatarfa.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifs.achara/https://www.globaltraumainstitute.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/achara-tarfa-b5413282/ Follow Patricia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patriciarichconsulting/Join the Self-Led Sexuality Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/selfleds3xualitywithpatriciarichSign up for Patricia’s email list and get the free The Six S's of Sexual Self-Energy Infographic.

“Did you get everything you needed to know by adolescence?...We can feel shame for not knowing, and I have to tell people…you didn't get this because no one taught you, this isn't some flaw of yours…no one taught you, but we can make it different for our kids.” Jennifer WiessnerContent Advisory: This episode explores sensitive topics related to sexuality. Listener discretion is advised.In this episode Patricia talks to Jennifer Wiessner, an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, couples therapist, Level 2 trained IFS therapist and sexuality educator, to explore the crucial topic of raising sexually healthy children. Jennifer shares her inspiring journey, revealing how the IFS lens has transformed her work and empowered parents to move from fear and shame to confidence and curiosity. She dives into common parental anxieties, such as navigating children's exposure to online images and discussions around nudity within the home, emphasizing the importance of creating a shame-free environment. She highlights the necessity for parents to first address their own internal "parts" before engaging in conversations about sexuality with their children, stressing that curiosity, rather than judgment, creates a safe space for open dialogue.Jennifer offers practical advice for handling challenging situations such as when children engage in sexual exploration, emphasizing the power of pausing and reflecting before reacting. She also addresses the cultural information gap surrounding sexuality, suggesting valuable resources like age-appropriate books and trusted adults to help bridge this gap. Furthermore, Jennifer discusses the importance of replacing judgment-laden terms like "appropriate" and "inappropriate" with clear, directive language, and explores the impact of cultural polarization on children's understanding of sexuality, contrasting the shame-based approach prevalent in the US with more open European perspectives.Ultimately, this episode emphasizes that a foundational understanding of one's own internal system is essential for effectively raising sexually healthy children.About Jennifer:Jennifer Wiessner is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, sex educator, couples therapist and consultant in Maine.She has a private therapy and sexual health consultation practice and sees couples, groups and adult individuals. She created and facilitated the Girls on Fire workshops for teens and the popular Raising Sexually Healthy Children workshops which educate parents, medical providers and educators.. Along with being a Sex and faith educator and a public speaker on healthy sexuality in hospitals, schools, colleges, and social groups; Jennifer provides non-therapy individual and couples consultations to get them on track with their sexual selves. Jennifer was the 2023 winner of Maine Family Planning's Significant Contributor Award for Sexual Health Education. Jennifer is a mom to two teenage sons and partnered with Greg of 25 years, all of whom inspire her to do her work.Connect with Jennifer:Website: https://jenniferwiessnerhealthysexuality.com/ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/jwiessnersextherapist/⁠Follow Patricia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patriciarichconsulting/Join the Self-Led Sexuality Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/selfleds3xualitywithpatriciarichSign up for Patricia’s email list and get the free The Six S's of Sexual Self-Energy Infographic.

“Scripting and asking for the kind of communication that you want can be a big switch for people…I call it conversational consent, but a lot of neurodivergent people are like, I love to monologue, I'll talk all day about what happened at work or, you know, what I'm thinking about or a book I want to write..but not everybody has the capacity to hold that all of the time.”Content Advisory: This episode explores sensitive topics related to sexuality. Listener discretion is advised.In this episode Patricia welcomes Kory Andreas, a therapist and late-diagnosed autistic adult, for an insightful conversation about neurodiversity and its impact on relationships and sexuality. Join them as Kory shares her experience of receiving a late autism diagnosis and the shifts in understanding that followed; the significance of routine and predictability for autistic individuals and how it shapes their interactions; how she helps couples in neurodiverse or mixed neurotype relationships to navigate challenges related to physical and emotional intimacy, and the essential role of solitude and special interests in maintaining well-being and how to navigate these needs within a partnership. Later in the episode Kory’s curious parts ask questions about IFS and engages in a short role play demo with Patty.This episode is for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of neurodiversity in relationships, whether you're a therapist, a partner, or simply curious.About Kory:Kory Andreas, LCSW-C, is a clinical social worker, Autism specialist, and neurodiversity educator with a deep passion for working with neurodiverse couples. As a late-diagnosed Autistic clinician, Kory brings both professional expertise and lived experience to her work, helping Autistic and ADHD adults navigate relationships, intimacy, and communication in a world designed for neurotypical norms.Kory specializes in helping neurodivergent couples build intimacy and connection in ways that honor their unique brains, rather than force neurotypical expectations. Through assessments, therapy, trainings, and practical strategies, she helps ND couples communicate more effectively, reduce frustration, and create relationships that feel safe, fulfilling, and sustainable.Kory’s approach is practical, insightful, and refreshingly real. With humor, candor, and an ability to translate neurodivergent experiences in a way that actually makes sense, she helps ND couples feel seen, understood, and equipped with strategies that work in real life—not just in theory.Connect with Kory:Website: koryandreas.comInstagram: instagram.com/neurokoryousPsychotherapy Networker: https://www.psychotherapynetworker.org/article/neurodiverse-couples-therapy/Follow Patricia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patriciarichconsulting/Join the Self-Led Sexuality Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/selfleds3xualitywithpatriciarichSign up for Patricia’s email list and get the free The Six S's of Sexual Self-Energy Infographic.

“And then I started to sort of look at things from the snake's point of view, and I could see where it was coming from and this immense desire it has to help us, and it wants us really to succeed, and it wants us to have sexuality, it wants us to have spirituality, it wants us to have enlightenment.” - Peter Legard NielsenContent Advisory: This episode explores sensitive topics related to sexuality, psychic distress, suicidal feeling, snakes, and non-ordinary states of consciousnessIn this episode, Patricia sits down with Peter Legard Nielsen, author of Spontaneous Kundalini Awakenings: Healing the Damage through IFS, to explore the intricate relationship between Kundalini energy, sexuality, and the IFS model.Peter delves into his own traumatic  experience with spontaneous Kundalini awakening when he was a lonely teen, his journey toward healing through various modalities including Rolfing and IFS,  and how he now appreciates the gifts this experience ultimately brought into his life.He shares how he discerns  kundalini, sexual and Self energy and  provides insights into how he now helps clients experiencing similar awakenings. The conversation touches on the importance of understanding and integrating the different forms of energies within us, and how reclaiming our parts with innocence and returning to embodied experiences play a crucial role in sexual healing and being our authentic Selves..About Peter:Peter Legård Nielsen is a Danish Certified IFS Therapist, Certified Advanced Rolfer™ and international writer of fiction and non-fiction. He lives in Copenhagen, Denmark, where he has a private clinic. He has been working with non-ordinary states of the psyche since 2007 and with IFS since 2018. His novel, "The Lovers. The Men Who Loved Karen Blixen", is about the world famous writer Isak Dinesen or Karen Blixen, while his novel "Darkness Without LImits" is an account of a boys struggle with the Kundalini energy, a theme that he also explores in the non-fiction book: "Spontaneous Kundalini Awakenings. Healing the Damage through IFS".Connect with Peter:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/peter.nielsen.3950178Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063352442892Author: www.peterlegaardnielsen.dkIFS therapy: https://alle-dele-er-velkomne.dk/Rolfing: https://rolfer.dk/Follow Patricia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patriciarichconsulting/Join the Self-Led Sexuality Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/selfleds3xualitywithpatriciarichSign up for Patricia’s email list and get the free The Six S's of Sexual Self-Energy Infographic.Disclaimer: All opinions and views expressed by Patricia Rich through the Self-Led in Bed Podcast and YouTube Channel are her own, as are the opinions and views expressed by guests. Patricia may or may not agree with the opinions and views expressed by guests and information provided on the podcast is not guaranteed to be factually accurate. The content provided is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. Nothing in this content should be construed or assumed to constitute personal or professional consultation, supervision, advice, clinical instruction, clinical assessment, guidance, treatment, therapy, training, diagnosis, or to replace medical or mental health treatment. Nothing in this content creates a therapist-client relationship. Always seek the advice of a medical or mental health provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your medical and/or mental health needs. If you need immediate help, contact your provider and/or call 911. Patricia Rich is always learning and her opinions are formed with the information she has at the time, and may change as she learns more. Topics discussed pertain to psychological states and to sexuality and may provoke uncomfortable feelings for some listeners. Please use your own discretion when listening to this podcast or sharing it with others.

“So instead of talking about the dishes, who didn't take the trash out and how the other person's mad, we talk about sexuality. So just openly talk about what happens when you get in bed, and then we start tracking the protectors. We have protective parts and we have exiles. So, just like with any topic in couples, sexuality involves our protectors and our exiles.” - Nancy WonderDisclaimer: This episode explores sensitive topics related to sexuality. Listener discretion is advised.Talking about sex in a Self-Led way can be darn difficult, whether that is with partners, clients, or  professional helpers.. Today’s guest is an expert on courageous sexual communication. She has helped sex offenders, sexual abuse survivors, folks with compulsive sexual behaviors, as well couples facing the everyday challenges of life to have brave and healing conversations. Patty welcomes Nancy Wonder, a seasoned IFS and Intimacy from the Inside Out (IFIO) therapist and trainer, to discuss helping therapists and couples to communicate courageously about sexuality. Nancy shares her journey from working with sexual offenders to specializing in couples' sexual health, and how IFS transformed her approach. They delve into the challenges couples face in discussing sex, the impact of trauma, and the importance of self-energy in healing and rebuilding intimacy. In this episode, you'll discover Nancy's path from working with sexual offenders to becoming an expert in couples' sexuality, the role of trauma in sexual compulsivity and how IFS addresses it, how to help couples navigate the shame and betrayal associated with sexual acting out, the importance of Self-energy in witnessing and repairing relationship wounds, practical strategies for rebuilding sexual intimacy after betrayal, including internal consent and gradual reconnection, why emotional repair doesn't automatically translate to sexual connection, and the need for explicit attention to sexual health in couples therapy. About Nancy:Nancy Wonder, PhD (she/her) is a licensed psychologist in Tallahassee, Florida where she conducts individual and couple therapy. Nancy serves as a Senior trainer for Intimacy From the Inside Out and is a past Co-Lead trainer for the IFS Institute. Nancy has been involved in over 20 trainings involving IFS or IFIO and has presented at the annual IFS conference on various topics, especially on IFS and IFIO applied to sexual issues in treatment. She contributed a chapter to Internal Family Systems Therapy: New Dimensions, entitled “Treating Pornography Addiction with IFS” and Internal Family Systems Therapy: Supervision and Consultation, entitled “Making the Unconscious Conscious in IFS Consultation of Sexual Abuse, Sexual Offending, and Sexual Compulsivity.”Connect with Nancy: nancywonder.comFollow Patricia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patriciarichconsulting/Join the Self-Led Sexuality Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/selfleds3xualitywithpatriciarichSign up for Patricia’s email list and get the free The Six S's of Sexual Self-Energy Infographic.

”Either there's a part who is doing some shaming, either internally or externally, or there's a part who is feeling shameful. And those are two different positions to be in.” Martha SweezeyContent Advisory: This episode explores sensitive topics related to sexuality including sexual abuse.  Listener discretion is advised.It’s hard to feel Self-Led in Bed when we are flooded with shame and guilt. Yet these feelings are so common in the realm of sexuality where our most vulnerable needs and desires are exposed to inner and outer judgment. In today’s episode I had the privilege of speaking with Martha Sweezey, an esteemed IFS therapist, teacher, supervisor, and author. Her recent book Internal Family Systems Therapy for Shame and Guilt is profoundly insightful regarding what Richard Schwartz refers to as “the most primal, terrifying, toxic and motivating of all burdens” Martha discusses her journey into the mental health field and her focus on shame and guilt, particularly in the context of sexuality. She explains the difference between parts that do shaming and parts that feel shameful, which she views as a global assessment of self-worth. She differentiates these from guilt which pertains to specific behaviors and can be adaptive or maladaptive.She highlights how parts with roles related to shame and guilt can form complex emotional dynamics, but that understanding common patterns can open access to these parts, and when we can “get in the middle” from a place of caring and compassion we can help them to not feel alone and to sort out the dilemmas. The conversation also explores the intergenerational transmission of shame and the impact of cultural and social factors. About Martha:Martha Sweezy is an assistant professor part-time in psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, a research and training consultant at the Center for Mindfulness and Compassion at the Cambridge Health Alliance, and a psychotherapist in private practice. She teaches Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy nationally and internationally and has authored, co-authored, and co-edited seven books on various applications of IFS.Connect with Martha:Website: https://marthasweezy.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094054958897LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/Follow Patricia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patriciarichconsulting/Join the Self-Led Sexuality Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/selfleds3xualitywithpatriciarichSign up for Patricia’s email list and get the free The Six S's of Sexual Self-Energy Infographic.Disclaimer: All opinions and views expressed by Patricia Rich through the Self-Led in Bed Podcast and YouTube Channel are her own, as are the opinions and views expressed by guests. Patricia may or may not agree with the opinions and views expressed by guests and information provided on the podcast is not guaranteed to be factually accurate. The content provided is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. Nothing in this content should be construed or assumed to constitute personal or professional consultation, supervision, advice, clinical instruction, clinical assessment, guidance, treatment, therapy, training, diagnosis, or to replace medical or mental health treatment. Nothing in this content creates a therapist-client relationship. Always seek the advice of a medical or mental health provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your medical and/or mental health needs. If you need immediate help, contact your provider and/or call 911. Patricia Rich is always learning and her opinions are formed with the information she has at the time, and may change as she learns more. Topics discussed pertain to psychological states and to sexuality and may provoke uncomfortable feelings for some listeners. Please use your own discretion when listening to this podcast or sharing it with others.

“Being Self-led means our parts give just enough room that [there is] enough room for me, enough room for you. So often times when I ask my parts to give me a little space, I say, Can you give me just enough space so I'm here too?” - Seth KopaldContent Advisory: This episode explores sensitive topics related to sexuality.  Listener discretion is advised.What does it really mean to be Self-Led? And how can we tell if we are Self-Led, in bed or anywhere? In this episode Patricia is joined by Seth Kopald, Certified IFS Practitioner and author of the book, “Self-Led.” They flesh this concept out together and explore some common burdens that may prevent us from accessing this clear and centered place that we all have within and which can guide us in our sexual lives. Seth shares some key life experiences that have fueled his passion for this work, as well as some tips for parents and  intimate partners who would like to feel more close, calm and courageous.They explore the difference between "in Self" (a deep meditative state) and "Self-led" (navigating daily interactions guided by Self-energy). In this episode, you'll discover Seth's personal journey with IFS and his focus on helping parents heal relationships, practical ways to access Self-energy in challenging moments such as noticing bodily sensations and shifting attention from the head to the heart, how to recognize when parts are blended and how to create space for Self-energy, the importance of understanding the other person's experience in intimate relationships, how speaking for parts, rather than from them, can prevent conflict escalation and facilitate repair, and the concept of a continuum between being fully in Self and fully blended with a part, rather than a binary. Key insights shared include that Self-led living involves creating space for all parts, accessing Self-energy often involves shifting attention from the head to the heart, speaking for parts allows for clearer communication and prevents defensive reactions, repairing relationships involves owning mistakes and creating a safe space for vulnerability, and Self-led relationships are not about perfection, but about navigating challenges with awareness and compassion. About Seth:Seth Kopald is a Certified, level 3, Internal Family Systems (IFS) Practitioner. He holds a PhD in Organization Management with a Specialization in Leadership and a Masters in Education. Seth is an experienced IFS training Program Assistant for Levels 1, 2, and 3. He has also been on Dick Schwartz’s staff for multiple retreats and Seth facilitates his own retreats and workshops. Seth is the author of the book Self-Led and his specialties include Self-led Parenting, Leadership, Parts Art, Spirituality, and creating spaces where people's parts feel safe and understood.Connect with Seth:Website: sethkopald.comInstagram: @selfled_by_sethFacebook: @seth.kopald.ifsFollow Patricia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patriciarichconsulting/Join the Self-Led Sexuality Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/selfleds3xualitywithpatriciarichSign up for Patricia’s email list and get the free The Six S's of Sexual Self-Energy Infographic.

“What happens in OCD systems, most of the time is that managers recruit firefighters. They're going to escalate the alarm until the firefighter fixes the potential of something or remediates what happened.”Disclaimer: This episode explores sensitive topics related to OCD and sexuality. Listener discretion is advised.This episode explores the intersection of OCD and sexuality through an IFS lens, examining how obsessive-compulsive tendencies can impact sexual intimacy and relationships. Guest Melissa Mose, a Certified IFS Therapist and OCD Specialist, discusses her approach to treating these conditions with an integrative approach. She shares her personal journey as a parent of a child with OCD and elaborates on the complexities of OCD, including its various forms like contamination, harm, and sexual orientation OCD. Mose emphasizes the importance of addressing both the obsessive and compulsive parts without reinforcing their patterns. She also touches upon the neurobiological and trauma aspects of OCD, while highlighting the significant impact OCD can have on relationships and intimacy. Mose concludes discusses her ongoing projects aimed at supporting those with OCD.Connect with Melissa:Website: https://www.melissamosemft.com/Follow Patricia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patriciarichconsulting/Join the Self-Led Sexuality Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/selfleds3xualitywithpatriciarichSign up for Patricia’s email list and get the free The Six S's of Sexual Self-Energy Infographic.

“I think connecting with your work really showed me and helped me to intuit and start to feel into [the truth] that actually pleasure is naturally here…it arises spontaneously many times when parts trust enough and are willing to allow enough space for Self Energy to embody. And that was a big shift for me.”Content Advisory: This episode explores sensitive topics related to sexual trauma and pleasure. Listener discretion is advised.Feeling Self-Led in Bed can be  particularly challenging for folks who have experienced sexual abuse or other forms of complex trauma. In today’s episode I talk with Sarah Siegel, an  IFS Practitioner, Coach, Interfaith Minister, and a valued assistant to me in the BeHold and Lead your Internal Sexual System (BLISS)™ program. Sarah has been on a profound  healing journey from severe childhood sexual abuse, opioid addiction, and chronic illness and has transformed her relationships, inside and out. I am so grateful that she was willing to share her compassionate wisdom with us. We don’t all start from the same place when it comes to sexual Self-leadership. It’s hard enough to navigate the complexities of today’s sexual landscape without complex trauma. Bringing the burdens and wounds of sexual abuse, often transmitted intergenerationally, certainly adds major challenges. I am so inspired by Sarah’s courageous journey, supported by her Buddhist practice, IFS, and other modalities along the way.About Sarah Siegel:Sarah Siegel is a Level 2 trained IFS Coach who loves supporting people who have survived severe complex trauma to build lives that are healthy, whole and full of pleasure. She is additionally an Ordained Interfaith Minister, Certified Holistic Coach and drug and alcohol counselor. Sarah has a private coaching practice in Portland, Maine and is also a longtime Buddhist practitioner, and mother of three. Sarah brings great compassion, nonjudgmental presence and wisdom born from her own healing journey from complex trauma due to childhood sexual abuse, severe opioid addiction, and chronic illness. She believes that we all have an unharmed and unharmable core essence, which contains great wisdom and knows how to heal and all of her work centers on this belief.Connect with Sarah:Website - https://www.wakingwisdomwithin.com/⁠Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/waking_wisdom_withinFollow Patricia on IG: https://www.instagram.com/patriciarichconsulting/Join the Self-Led Sexuality Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/selfleds3xualitywithpatriciarichSign up for Patricia’s email list and get the free The Six S's of Sexual Self-Energy Infographic.Disclaimer: All opinions and views expressed by Patricia Rich through the Self-Led in Bed Podcast and YouTube Channel are her own, as are the opinions and views expressed by guests. Patricia may or may not agree with the opinions and views expressed by guests and information provided on the podcast is not guaranteed to be factually accurate. The content provided is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. Nothing in this content should be construed or assumed to constitute personal or professional consultation, supervision, advice, clinical instruction, clinical assessment, guidance, treatment, therapy, training, diagnosis, or to replace medical or mental health treatment. Nothing in this content creates a therapist-client relationship. Always seek the advice of a medical or mental health provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your medical and/or mental health needs. If you need immediate help, contact your provider and/or call 911. Patricia Rich is always learning and her opinions are formed with the information she has at the time, and may change as she learns more. Topics discussed pertain to psychological states and to sexuality and may provoke uncomfortable feelings for some listeners. Please use your own discretion when listening to this podcast or sharing it with others.

“ There can be really restrictive managers around food and exercise trying to control someone's body. But their firefighters might not be about food. Their firefighters actually might be around sex or spending or overworking…And when we can really work with these parts and understand the protective nature of what they're doing and really befriend them is when they can show us what they're protecting…what fascinates me is it's always complex.”Content Advisory: This episode explores sensitive topics related to body image, eating disorders, trauma and sexuality. Listener discretion is advised.It’s hard to feel Self-Led in Bed when we do not feel at home in our bodies, when we judge our bodies harshly and feel shameful about them. In this episode of Self-Led in Bed, I speak with Marcella Cox, a Certified IFS therapist who specializes in treating eating disorders, disordered eating, body shame, and trauma. Something I really appreciated talking with Marcella is  the depth of her kindness and compassion for the parts of ourselves that take on the job of keeping us out of our bodies. She invites embodiment throughout the episode, and brings in the role cultural influences like patriarchy and capitalism play in our relationship to body trust and connection.We explore the overlaps between eating and sexuality and consider the profound impact of slowing down and noticing what we really feel and want.Key Takeaways: Cultural messages and societal pressures significantly impact our relationship with our bodies and can lead to body shame, self-criticism, and disrupted embodiment. Internal protective parts, such as "managers" and "firefighters," play a crucial role in shaping our relationship with food, exercise, and sexuality. Cultivating self-compassion, honoring bodily sensations, and practicing mindfulness can help us reconnect with our bodies and cultivate more fulfilling sexual experiences. Embodiment is an ongoing process that requires ongoing attention, self-awareness, and a willingness to explore and challenge internalized beliefs and societal pressures.About Marcella Cox:Marcella Cox, LMFT, is a Certified IFS Therapist specializing in treating eating disorders, disordered eating, body shame, and trauma. Marcella recently contributed the chapter on IFS and Disordered Eating in Altogether Us: Integrating the IFS Model with Key Modalities, Communities, and Trends (Pivotal Press, 2023). She is also on the staff of Susan McConnell, developer of Somatic IFS, an approach that blends the IFS model of therapy with embodiment practices. As an Approved IFS Clinical Consultant, Marcella provides professional consultation and supervision. She also leads workshops, trainings and retreats. Her certifications as a Body Trust Provider, Daring Way Facilitator and Mindful Self-Compassion Teacher also inform her professional work.  Marcella is the founder of Kindful Body, a collaboration of experienced eating disorder professionals providing online therapy and nutrition counseling throughout California. She also co-founded the IFS Telehealth Collective with lead IFS trainers, Mariel Pastor, LMFT and Paul Ginter, Ed.D. The IFS Telehealth Collective is a multi-state mental health group practice dedicated to providing authentic, high-quality IFS Therapy online throughout California, New York, Massachusetts, Florida, Oregon and Michigan. To learn more, visit www.kindfulbody.com or www.ifstherapyonline.com.  Connect with Marcella:WebsiteFacebookInstagramhttps://www.ifstherapyonline.comhttps://www.ifstherapyonline.com/kindfulbodyFollow Patricia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patriciarichconsulting/Join the Self-Led Sexuality Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/selfleds3xualitywithpatriciarichSign up for Patricia’s email list and get the free The Six S's of Sexual Self-Energy Infographic.Check the SLB Disclaimer here

“Touch deprivation is a real thing...I think that there's some sensitivity when we're not receiving those hugs and that touch. Your skin is almost craving it."Content Advisory: This episode explores topics related to sexuality, trauma, racism, and societal oppression.In today’s conversation, Deran Young, a licensed therapist, co-author of "You Are Your Best Thing," and founder of Black Therapists Rock sheds light on collective legacy burdens and developmental needs, especially those that impact Black women’s sexuality. I especially appreciate Deran’s vulnerability in sharing her own life story and doing a piece of live IFS work with a self-reliant part and a part that craves more touch in her daily  life. Learn about how historical trauma, religious beliefs, military life and more can shape experiences with touch, intimacy, and sexual expression, and how to reclaim embodiment, trust, and intimacy with oneself and others..Key Takeaways:​- Collective legacy burdens, including systemic racism, sexism, and religious oppression, have a profound impact on experiences with sexuality.​- Shame, self-doubt, and lack of bodily autonomy impact sexual pleasure and intimacy.​- Early childhood experiences, particularly those related to touch and attachment, play a crucial role in shaping our relationships with intimacy and sexuality.​- Reclaiming intimacy and trust requires addressing historical trauma, challenging internalized oppression, and cultivating self-compassion.​Key Themes & Timestamps:​[00:01:00-04:00] Early Life Experiences​[00:04:00-07:00] Accessing and Owning Your Body​[00:07:00-11:00] Addressing Internalized Oppression​[011:00-14:00] The Impact of Shame and Subjugation​[014:00-17:00] The Role of Personal History​[017:00-20:00] The Importance of Touch and Intimacy​[020:00-24:00] Exploring Shame and its Impact on Sexuality​[024:00-29:00] The Role of Touch Deprivation​[029:00-35:00] Reclaiming Intimacy and TrustAbout Deran Young:Deran Young is a licensed therapist, CDWF, CDTL, Co-Author of New York TImes Best Seller, You Are Your Best Thing, retired military officer, and the founder of Black Therapists Rock.Black Therapists Rock is a non profit organization that mobilizes over 30,000 mental health professionals committed to reducing the psychological impact of systemic oppression and intergenerational trauma.She obtained her social work degree from University of Texas, where she studied abroad in Ghana, West Africa for two semesters creating a high school counseling center for under-resourced students. Deran describes herself as someone who loves to learn from various cultures and has visited over 37 different countries and her clinical experience spans across four different continents. Her passion for culture and people has led her to become a highly sought after diversity and inclusion consultant working with companies like BBERG, Facebook, Linked In, Field Trip Health, and YWCA.Deran’s advocacy expands over several online and offline platforms. With a current social media audience of over 100,000 followers on IG and Facebook, Deran has become a leading influencer and public figure committed to spreading mental health awareness and improving health equity. She resides in the Washington DC area and continues to explore the world with her young son.Connect with Deran: Deran's Facebook PageDeran's Facebook GroupDeran's Instagram12 Step Meetings for Adult Children of Alcoholic or Dysfunctional FamiliesFollow Patricia on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/patriciarichconsulting/Join the Self-Led Sexuality Free Facebook Community:https://www.facebook.com/groups/selfleds3xualitywithpatriciarichSign up for Patricia’s email list and get the freeThe Six S's of Sexual Self-Energy Infographic.

"When we can turn towards our parts with curiosity and compassion, we can begin to heal and grow."In this episode, I talked with Certified IFS Consultant, author and IFS podcaster extraordinaire, Tammy Sollenberger, about how we discovered Internal Family Systems, the transformative power of self-compassion, and how to apply IFS principles in our daily and sexual lives. Tammy shares personal stories and her clear understanding of the model in ways that I am sure will engage you and awaken your curiosity.Key Takeaways:The power of IFS: How this therapeutic model can revolutionise your understanding of yourself.The importance of self-compassion: Learn how to cultivate kindness and understanding towards your inner world.IFS and sexuality: Explore the connection between IFS and navigating sexuality.Practical tips: Discover simple ways to incorporate IFS into your daily life.Timestamps:01:23 First Encounter and Impact of IFS11:54 Exploring Internal Family Systems26:44 The Importance of Simplifying IFS32:08 Exploring Vulnerability and Unblending33:33 Navigating Complex Sexual Worlds37:25 Trailheads and Sexual Energy42:16 Internal Consent and Self-Energy44:36 Parts and Morning Routines54:53 Naming and Unblending PartsAbout Tammy Sollenberger:Tammy Sollenberger is an author, podcaster, and psychotherapist. She is a Certified IFS Therapist and Consultant who enjoys helping people new to IFS discover their Authentic Self. She co-authored a chapter on the Enneagram and IFS with Joan Ryan in the book "Altogether Us: Integrating the IFS Model with Key Modalities, Communities and Trends." She authored the book, "The One Inside: Thirty Days to Your Authentic Self," and she hosts and produces a weekly podcast called "The One Inside." She has a part who always wishes she was reading on a sunny beach.Connect with Tammy: https://tammysollenberger.com/Follow Patricia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patriciarichconsulting/Join the Self-Led Sexuality Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/selfleds3xualitywithpatriciarichSign up for Patricia’s email list and get the free The Six S's of Sexual Self-Energy Infographic.