Sex and the Autism Spectrum
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that varies in severity. Typically, the core symptoms of ASD revolve around challenges in social communication and interaction. People on the spectrum may find daily human interactions more complex and struggle with day-to-day social behaviors. Sex is one of the most basic social human interactions and does…
Respark’s Guide to Scheduling Sex
Scheduling sex sounds like something that might make sense to those of us who live overwhelming, busy lives with our calendars constantly booked. For others, though, scheduling sex may not sound that appealing, as it takes the spontaneity out of intimacy. While spontaneity is essential, it’s not always realistic in day-to-day life. Most of us…
There’s a Difference: Types of Desire
When referring to sex, many of us use the terms “arousal” and “desire” interchangeably. According to sex therapist Leigh Norén, “arousal” refers to your physical reaction to sex while “desire” refers to your mental and emotional state. To explain physiological sexual behavior, Helen Kaplan Singer created the Triphasic Model which lists three main steps of…
Meet Phexxi: The New Non-Hormonal Birth Control That’s Inserted Vaginally
For many of us who have struggled with the side effects of birth control, a non-hormonal, non-invasive method seems like a dream. Recently, a new form of birth control has entered the market, and it’s just that: non-hormonal, non-invasive, and totally controlled by the user. Meet Phexxi, non-hormonal birth control that is inserted vaginally. As…
Sex Positions for Neck and Back Pain
As the age of our body increases, so does the number of aches and pains we suffer from. Ironically, sometimes our libido increases as we get older, creating the challenge of having an exciting sex life if you have an ailment like a bad back or hip. How does one enjoy sex if their body…
Getting to Know Robyn Flores
Meet one of Respark’s talented therapists, Robyn Flores, MS, LMFT-A, LPC-C! 1. What made you want to become a Sex Therapist? I was inspired by a professor, who is also a Sex Therapist when working on my Masters degree. I ended up presenting with him at the Texas Counseling Association conference in 2019, presenting…
Sexual Surrogacy in the Bedroom
Sexual surrogacy therapy is supportive and meant to foster self-awareness, healthy boundaries, and good communication before any sexual contact. The practice is an excellent resource for sex therapists as sexual surrogacy is a therapeutic practice designed to help people become more comfortable with sex, their body, and/or the emotional and physical skills they need for…
When Your Therapist Makes Porn
Sex therapists and couples counselors have lives outside of their profession. It’s often awkward to think of your therapist as a person who deals with trials and tribulations in life. However, it’s important to remember that your sex therapist is a human being and entitled to the same delicacies that their patients enjoy in life,…
The Joys of Mutual Masturbation for Couples
Nobody knows your body better than you! Masturbation is a great way to explore your desires and get to know what your body likes and needs. Most of us are comfortable masturbating in the confines of our own personal space- for me I love masturbating in my bed deep under the covers. There’s nothing like…
Sexual incompatibility: What to do when you and your significant other have different preferences in bed
Sexual incompatibility is more common than one may think. Many couples find themselves struggling with sexual compatibility with a partner, and things can get even more tricky if you’re polyamorous and have more than one partner. It’s often difficult to ensure that everyone’s needs and desires are being met in the bedroom. It’s important to…