What Do You Do For A Living?
When I get asked this question, sometimes I'm a bit guarded in my response. Often, I hesitate and gather my words.
But most of the time I'm direct.
"I'm a sexologist who gives women practical steps for overcoming shame, pain and low libido."
I'm met with a variety of responses.
"Oh! I've never met a sexologist before!"
"Whoa. You must have lots of stories."
"Like the mom in "Meet the Fockers?"
And the truth is that yes, there aren't a ton of people in the field, and yes, I have lots of stories. And NO, I'm not at all like Barbara Streisand and her unconventional "advice" in Meet the Fockers.
But after the initial eyebrow-raising interest, you know what? Many people sigh deeply and start to tell me bits and pieces of their relationship or sex life. Or say, "I've always wanted to ask somebody this, but was afraid to google it..."
Or admit..."I've never told anyone this before..."
I'm fascinated with this level of immediate comfort. I understand deeply that it has very little to do with me and a lot to do with the fact that most people simply don't have a place to talk about sex in a practical, non-judgmental way.
We are desperate for a space to talk about sex that isn't filled to the brim with pressure, innuendo or judgment. Where are we supposed to find a reliable, accessible, plain language guide to the most vulnerable part of our relationships?
I'm hoping that in the future, we will have so many more people in the field of sexuality. It is such a privilege to help women find a road to pleasure and connection where there was previously a roadblock.
And I'm hoping that wherever you are, you are finding the spaces, the people and the resources you need to help you navigate the bumps in the road of your sexual journey:
shame from the past
painful sex
low libido
shame about your body
differing sex drives
difficulty communicating your needs
But if you don't have those people, places, and resources in your life, I've got you. And I would be most privileged to help.
Rooting for you always,
Celeste
And totally unrelated, but please note how my shirt matches the water at Big Sur! <3