Posts in Sexology
Unresolved Trauma and Its Impact on Current Relationships: A Perspective from Marin County EMDR therapist
Unresolved Trauma and Its Impact on Current Relationships: A Perspective from Marin County EMDR therapist

Trauma, whether emotional or physical, leaves an indelible mark on the psyche. Emotional abuse can include verbal attacks, emotional manipulation, and neglect of emotional needs. Physical abuse encompasses acts of violence or physical harm, while neglect involves the failure to meet basic emotional and physical needs. When these experiences remain unresolved, they create deep-seated fears and defensive mechanisms that can persist into adulthood. These fears often include anxiety about pain, abandonment, and rejection—experiences that were once life-threatening or profoundly hurtful.

Read More
EMDR, Trauma Healing, Sexuality, Sex Therapy, SexologyDenise Renyemarin county sex therapist, Marin county EMDR therapist, emdr, EMDR, trauma, ptsd
Bay Area Sexologist Unveils SSRIs Sexual Side Effects
Bay Area Sexologist Unveils SSRIs Sexual Side Effects

Managing SSRI sexual side effects involves a comprehensive approach that includes medication management, lifestyle adjustments, psychological support, and sexual health education. By addressing these aspects, in my work as a Bay Area sexologist I support my clients in maintaining both their mental health and their sexual well-being, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and balanced life.

Read More
Sex Therapy, Sexuality, SexologyDenise Renyemarin, marin county sex therapist, marin county sexologist, colorado sexologist, colorado sex therapist, marin county, marin county psychologist, marin couples counseling, marin county couples therapy, marin county CA, marin premarital counseling, EMDR therapist Marin county
Are More Men Scared of Intimacy Than Women?
Are More Men Scared of Intimacy Than Women?

As the patriarchy is crumbling and the divine feminine is rising, we’re seeing more public examples of men who are bucking the “traditional” masculine way of being that eschews vulnerability and intimacy. They are challenging the status quo perception of masculinity and that means their partners are forced to confront their own ingrained beliefs as well.

Read More
Sex Therapy, Sexuality, SexologyDenise Renyemarin county sex therapist, marin county sexologist
Fear of Intimacy: A Seasoned Sex Therapist’s Perspective
Fear of Intimacy: A Seasoned Sex Therapist’s Perspective

With awareness, compassion, and a willingness to confront past wounds, it is possible to overcome the fear of intimacy and embrace the vulnerability that intimacy requires. As a Marin County sex therapist, it is deeply rewarding to work with clients who move through these fears and into more fulfilling, connected relationships.

Read More
Couples Therapy, Sex Therapy, SexologyDenise Renyemarin county sex therapist, Marin county EMDR therapist, marin county sexologist, marin county, marin county psychologist, maring couples therapy, marin county CA, marin premarital counseling, couples therapy marin county, Marin, EMDR therapist Marin county
A Bay Area Sex Therapist’s Guide to Understanding Foot Fetishes
A Bay Area Sex Therapist’s Guide to Understanding Foot Fetishes

In a sex-positive framework, which I practice as a Bay Area sex therapist and psychologist, consensual adult sexual expressions are valid and worthy of respect. This means I view foot fetishes not as a disorder or abnormality but as a natural variation of human sexuality. The sex-positive approach is grounded in the belief that sexual diversity is a normal and healthy part of life. It challenges the notion that only certain types of sexual expressions are acceptable and encourages people to explore and express their sexuality in ways that feel authentic and fulfilling to them.

Read More
Sex Therapy, Sexuality, SexologyDenise Renyefoot fetish, marin county sex therapist, bay area sex therapist, bay area therapist, bay area psychologist, Marin county EMDR therapist, fetish, kink, kinky sex
How to Add More Intimacy to Your Sex Life
How to Add More Intimacy to Your Sex Life

The key to a more intimate sex life is open communication, mutual respect, and a willingness to explore and connect with your partner on multiple levels. It's important to understand each other's needs and desires and to create an environment that encourages trust and vulnerability. 

Read More
Couples Therapy, Sex Therapy, Sexuality, Somatic Psychology, SexologyDenise Renyemarin county sex therapist, marin county sexologist, maring couples therapy, marin county psychologist, marin county CA, marin premarital counseling, EMDR therapist Marin county, couples therapy marin county, marin county, healthy relationships, emotionally unavailable, emotional intelligence, emotional availability
Deeper Connections: Further Insights on Emotional Availability from a Bay Area Sex Therapist
Deeper Connections: Further Insights on Emotional Availability from a Bay Area Sex Therapist

Identifying the traits of an emotionally available person can help you assess a potential or current partner and also demonstrate where either or both of you could use some support. Emotional availability is a spectrum whereby some people are more available than others. In other words, every person can become more emotionally available, if they choose. And if they do, I bet they’ll find deeper and more meaningful connections.

Read More
Couples Therapy, Sexuality, Sex Therapy, SexologyDenise Renyemarin county sex therapist, marin county sexologist, marin county psychologist, marin county, maring couples therapy, marin premarital counseling, marin county CA, EMDR therapist Marin county, couples therapy marin county, emotional availability, emotional safety
Bay Area Sex Therapist Reveals Why Marriage Has Evolved
Bay Area Sex Therapist Reveals Why Marriage Has Evolved

Gone are the days when marriage meant being with someone solely for the sake of fulfilling societal expectations or securing financial stability. Now people seek partners who offer emotional availability, understanding, and support. They desire relationships built on mutual respect, shared values, and a sense of partnership. They want companions who enhance their lives and share their journeys. People want a partner who listens with empathy, communicates openly, and demonstrates emotional maturity. It’s part of the reason I’ve seen an uptick in requests for premarital counseling – modern couples recognize marriage takes effort and they want to enter their marriage with as many tools in their toolbox as possible.

Read More
Body Movement, Sex Therapy, Sexuality, Somatic Psychology, SexologyDenise Renyemarin county sex therapist, marin county sexologist, marin county, marin county psychologist, marin county CA, EMDR therapist Marin county, couples therapy marin county, marriage, gay marriage, lgbtquia+, weddign, wedding, premarital counseling, marin premarital counseling
Beyond Orgasms: Exploring the Pleasure of Sex
Beyond Orgasms: Exploring the Pleasure of Sex

Our society places a premium on achieving orgasm as the pinnacle of sexual satisfaction so it's easy to lose sight of the many other forms of pleasure that can be found along the way. While orgasms can certainly be a pleasurable and fulfilling part of sex for many people, they are by no means the sole measure of sexual satisfaction, especially when you factor in the issues surrounding orgasms.

Read More
Body Movement, Gender Openness, Sex Therapy, Sexuality, Somatic Psychology, SexologyDenise Renyemarin county sex therapist, marin county sexologist, marin county, marin county psychologist, marin county CA, EMDR therapist Marin county, couples therapy marin county, sexual pleasure
Bay Area Sex Therapist Reveals the Benefits of Using a Vibrator
Bay Area Sex Therapist Reveals the Benefits of Using a Vibrator

Vibrators can contribute to stress relief, relaxation, and enhanced blood flow, potentially leading to better sexual health. For some people, a vibrator can also help with pain relief, particularly for menstrual cramps or pelvic discomfort. And for people who want to use a vibrator for more than masturbation, it can promote intimacy and communication with a partner. As a Marin County sex therapist, I work with couples around communication and sometimes even how sexual expression could include toys.

Read More
Sexuality, Sex Therapy, SexologyDenise Renyemarin county sexologist, marin county psychologist, marin county, marin county CA, vibrators, sexolo, sexology, sexologist, bay area sexologist, marin county sex therapist
How Ethical Fetish and Kink Play can Heal Trauma
How Ethical Fetish and Kink Play can Heal Trauma

Trauma leaves a lasting impact on a person’s sense of self and affects their mental well-being and intimate connections. There are many ways the body can process trauma and one of them is ethical, consensual fetish and kink play. A fetish is a behavior that someone cannot get sexually aroused without whereas kink is an activity or behavior someone enjoys that goes outside the bounds of “traditional,” or “vanilla” sex. A person may get incredibly turned on by a kink, but not necessarily need it to get off. If they do, it becomes a fetish. Fetishes may be kinks, but not all kinks are fetishes.

Read More
Couples Therapy, LGBTQIA+, Sexuality, SexologyDenise Renyeptsd, trauma, fetish, kink, sex therapy, bdsm, sexology
Defying Ageism: Being Beautiful at Any Age
Defying Ageism: Being Beautiful at Any Age

Under patriarchy, traditional men are given power and it’s taken away from women, nonbinary folx, and “girly” men. Also under patriarchy, the status quo is upheld such that traditional ways of thinking, acting, and being are prized while new ways are not. What this translates to is men who display what are perceived as “feminine” traits like sensitivity, vulnerability, and care are less valued under patriarchy and discriminated against.

Read More
Sexuality, SexologyDenise Renyecronehood, crone, women's sexuality, women and psychology, badass women, ageism, anxiety, divine feminine, divine uprising, marin county sex therapist
Exploring the Sensual Art of Body Worship in Human Sexuality
Exploring the Sensual Art of Body Worship in Human Sexuality

Body worship is a form of sexual play where one partner lavishes praise, attention, and sensual affection upon the other partner's body. It is a practice rooted in the idea that the human body is a work of art, worthy of admiration and celebration. This form of sexual expression transcends the boundaries of societal norms and allows individuals to explore their desires, connect on a deeper level, and foster a sense of intimacy that goes beyond the physical.

Read More
Couples Therapy, Sex Therapy, Sexuality, Somatic Psychology, Trauma Healing, SexologyDenise Renyebody worship, sensuality, sensual, consent, consensual sex, marin county sexologist, marin county psychologist, marin county CA, marin county, marin county sex therapist, EMDR therapist Marin county
Meaningful Relationships in Hook Up Culture
Meaningful Relationships in Hook Up Culture

Finding a meaningful relationship in hookup culture can be challenging, but it's not impossible. By being clear about what you want, avoiding casual hookups, taking things slow, looking for like-minded individuals, being patient, open, and honest, and putting yourself out there, you can increase your chances of finding a meaningful relationship.

Read More
Sex Therapy, Sexuality, SexologyDenise Renyerelationship creativity, relationship, couples therapy, relationship therapy, love, self love, couples, marin county sex therapist, marin county sexologist, marin county psychologist
Want more Sexual Pleasure?
Want more Sexual Pleasure?

Emotional safety plays a crucial role in sexual pleasure. When we feel emotionally safe with our partner, we are more likely to be open, vulnerable, and willing to explore our desires and fantasies. When we trust our partner, we can let go of any inhibitions and fully immerse ourselves in the moment, leading to a more intense and fulfilling sexual experience.

Read More
Gender Openness, Sex Therapy, Sexuality, SexologyDenise Renyepleasure, sexual healing, sexual pleasure, emotional safety, relationship creativity, relationship, marin county sexologist, marin county psychologist, marin county CA, marin county
Sexual Anxiety? Try Meditation
Sexual Anxiety? Try Meditation

Sexual anxiety is a common issue that affects many people, and it can be caused by a variety of factors, including performance anxiety, past trauma, or negative self-talk. Anxiety can significantly impact one's sexual experience, leading to difficulties achieving or maintaining an erection, premature ejaculation, or difficulty reaching orgasm. However, meditation is a powerful tool that can help decrease anxiety during sex and improve overall sexual well-being.

Read More
Body Movement, Ritual and Ceremony, Sex Therapy, Sexuality, Somatic Psychology, Yoga Therapy, SexologyDenise Renyesexual anxiety, sexual healing, sexua trauma, sexual pleasure, sexual assault survivor, sexual therapy, meditation, mind-body connection, mindfulness
The Clitoris: Much More Than the Tip of the Iceberg
The Clitoris: Much More Than the Tip of the Iceberg

This lack of focus and knowledge can create a lot of issues for those with clitorises.  Psychologically, there is a message put forth that there’s less importance on these bodies, that women overall are less important, and that can affect self-esteem, confidence, and a general sense of embodiment. This is changing but/and the change is so very slow. It’s important to talk about the issues for people with clitorises, understand it, and have deeper knowledge of the vulva, vagina, and clitoris. Normalizing pleasure is key to a sense of embodiment.

Read More
Sexuality, SexologyDenise RenyeSex, sextherapy, sex therapy, sexual therapy, sexua trauma, clitoris, sexual healing, sexual pleasure, women's sexuality, freud, marin county sex therapist, marin county sexologist, marin county psychologist
Female Orgasms and Unrealistic Expectations
Female Orgasms and Unrealistic Expectations

For folx who have sex with people with clitorises, it’s important that they realize vaginal penetration alone may not cut it, and as with all satisfying sex, communication is key. At Whole Person Integration, we say bring consciousness back to the bedroom. Communicate wants and desires. But also explore…and explore widely, vastly, and wildly…if you so desire. You may have “tried and true” methods of coming but part of the fun with sex is learning new forms of pleasure. What else can you try? The answer may surprise you.

Read More
Sexuality, SexologyDenise Renyeorgasm, female orgasm, sexual pleasure, sex, sexuality, sexual healing, sexual, sextherapy, sex therapy, clitoris, marin county sexologist, marin county psychologist, marin county, marin county CA, marin county sex therapist
The Orgasm Gap
The Orgasm Gap

The orgasm gap is what it sounds like – when engaging in sexual activities that result in an orgasm, one individual or group consistently achieves an orgasm more than another. One study found the breakdown is like so:

 

·      95% of heterosexual men experience orgasm during intercourse

·      89% of gay men

·      88% of bisexual men

·      86% of lesbians

·      66% of bisexual women

·      65% of straight women

Read More
Sex Therapy, Sexuality, SexologyDenise Renyeorgasm, vulva, vagina, wage gap, misogyny, marin county sex therapist, marin county sexologist, marin county psychologist
How to Work with Limerence and Not Against It
How to Work with Limerence and Not Against It

Psychologist Dorothy Tennov first described the term in 1979 in her book Love and Limerence: The Experience of Being in Love. Limerence is less grounded than love because it involves a heck of a lot of projection and fantasy. Instead of seeing the other person for who they are, flaws and all, someone in the throes of limerence will ignore red flags because “love conquers all.” They may imagine activities and outings with the other person, how they’ll dress, what they’ll say because at this point, the other person is still a mystery.  

Read More
Gender Openness, Sex Therapy, Sexuality, SexologyDenise Renyehealthy relationships, mens health, mentalhealth, love, love addiction, relationship creativity, romantic relationship, toxic relationship, marin county sexologist, marin county psychologist, marin county CA, marin county, marin county sex therapist, EMDR therapist Marin county