Existential Psychology Can Transform Sex Therapy
Genevieve Marcel Genevieve Marcel

Existential Psychology Can Transform Sex Therapy

This blog post explores how existential psychotherapy can enrich and deepen the practice of sex therapy. Rather than focusing solely on behavioral techniques or pathology, existential therapy addresses core human concerns like freedom, isolation, meaning, and mortality. These existential themes often underlie sexual struggles such as low desire, performance anxiety, intimacy issues, and identity questions. By helping clients confront these deeper questions, sex therapy becomes not just about fixing problems, but about fostering authenticity, connection, and meaning in their sexual lives. The post also emphasizes the importance of the therapist’s authentic presence in this deeply human work.

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Betrayal Blindness Continued…
Genevieve Marcel Genevieve Marcel

Betrayal Blindness Continued…

Betrayal blindness is one of the most complex emotional survival mechanisms we rarely talk about. It happens when someone unconsciously chooses not to "see" a betrayal in order to maintain a relationship, emotional safety, or even a sense of identity.

While it often appears in romantic partnerships, betrayal blindness can also show up in families, friendships, and workplaces. The betrayal can be more than just infidelity. It could be someone choosing to lean into their own confirmation bias about their partner because embracing what is right in front of them would be too psychologically painful and disruptive. For example, if a partner can detail a multitude of examples of their partner’s narcissistic tendencies, but be unable to view them as narcissistic because if their partner is in fact a narcissist, that would be too much to take. Hence, you tell yourself that it just could not be possible, even though it is.

Nowhere is it more misunderstood—or more impactful—than in the context of infidelity and intimacy, where sex therapy can play a vital role in healing.

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The Therapeutic Side of BDSM
Genevieve Marcel Genevieve Marcel

The Therapeutic Side of BDSM

BDSM, when practiced consensually and mindfully, can offer a range of therapeutic benefits beyond physical pleasure. It creates a safe space for emotional expression, fosters deep trust and communication, and promotes mindfulness and self-awareness. Through roles, rituals, and power dynamics, individuals can explore identity, reclaim agency, and process complex emotions or trauma. Physical touch and sensory experiences in BDSM can trigger feel-good chemicals, promoting stress relief and emotional regulation. Finally, the practice of aftercare nurtures emotional safety and reinforces connection. While not a replacement for therapy, BDSM can be a powerful tool for healing, growth, and empowerment when approached with care and consent.

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What is Sex Therapy?
Genevieve Marcel Genevieve Marcel

What is Sex Therapy?

Sex therapy is a form of talk therapy that focuses on addressing sexual concerns, intimacy challenges, and relationship dynamics. It helps individuals and couples deal with issues like low libido, sexual dysfunction, communication barriers, and more—without any physical contact during sessions. Guided by licensed professionals with training in human sexuality, sex therapy offers a safe, judgment-free space to explore and resolve sexual difficulties. It's beneficial for people of all genders, orientations, and relationship styles. By reducing stigma and encouraging open conversation, sex therapy promotes healthier, more fulfilling relationships and overall well-being.

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Whatever we do not change, we are choosing
Genevieve Marcel Genevieve Marcel

Whatever we do not change, we are choosing

Whatever we do not change, we are choosing. Humans are not born with a preset purpose; instead, we must define our essence over time. We define who we are through our choices. Often, external forces like family, societal norms, or financial pressure shape our sense of purpose, potentially leading to existential anxiety and inner conflict.

The article emphasizes the concept of choice—that while some events are out of our control, our responses are not. Social media is used as an example: although many recognize its negative emotional effects, they continue to engage with it, often unconsciously. The same principle applies to toxic interactions—choosing to engage in them is still a choice.

The core message is that real freedom lies in recognizing the space between stimulus and response, and using that pause to make intentional choices. This idea extends to sex therapy, where unexamined beliefs around pleasure and sexuality can limit fulfillment. We can either accept these beliefs or challenge them to create a more authentic, satisfying life.

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