Episode 7: Dr Holly Richmond
25/07/2024
Watch now on Youtube.
Join Ailey Jolie and Dr Holly Richmond, a Somatic Psychotherapist, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT), Certified Sex Therapist (CST) and Certified Sex Therapy Supervisor, for this episode of In This Body. Dr Holly shares her experience at the Santa Barbara Rape Crisis Center which propelled her to pursue advanced education in somatic psychology and sex therapy. She discusses the importance of integrating somatic approaches with cognitive skills and education in therapeutic practices. Ailey and Dr Holly delve into the unique challenges faced by sexual trauma survivors, highlighting the need for specialized therapy. Dr Holly outlines several somatic interventions and how they aid clients in regaining control, experiencing pleasure, and fostering reconnection with their bodies. Ailey and Dr Holly discuss practical advice for both survivors seeking therapy and clinicians wanting to enhance their practice with somatic and sex-positive approaches.This is a fantastic episode that leaves no question unanswered. We hope you enjoy the episode.
About In This Body: Conversations with leading experts about the importance of embodiment in living an authentic life. In This Body asks the important questions: How does connecting to your body change your life? How will connecting to your body allow you to love better and live more authentically? And how does connecting to your body change the trajectory of our shared world?
In this episode:
01:04 Pursuing Somatics and Embodiment
02:09 Integrating Cognitive and Somatic Therapies
04:17 Understanding Different Therapy Specializations
07:10 The Importance of Pleasure in Therapy
08:58 Reclaiming Pleasure: A Guide for Survivors
10:37 Control, Pleasure, and Connection in Healing
15:08 Addressing Sexual Trauma and the Healing Journey
22:03 Navigating Sexual Frustration and Control
22:30 Understanding Somatic Awareness
22:55 Techniques for Body Awareness
25:50 Addressing Cultural and Psychological Barriers
26:35 Importance of Embodiment in Sexuality
28:07 Creating a Safe Environment for Healing
30:00 Mindfulness Alternatives to Meditation
31:30 Somatic Homework and Community Engagement
33:31 Clinician Challenges and Education Gaps
37:38 Addressing Sexual Trauma and Shame
41:19 Common Misconceptions About Sexuality
42:21 Final Thoughts on Body Awareness and Healing