The Power (and Science) of Love

Nadine Toren is a television personality and reporter in Scottsdale, AZ, who interviewed me about the latest research about LOVE! She adds a personal touch by sharing a little of her own experiences too.

Click here for story in AZ Foothills.

Jennifer Gunsaullus, Ph.D.

Sex Coaching & Relationship Counseling in San Diego

Top 6 Symptoms of Common STDs/STIs

What are symptoms of STIs? In this session of "In the Den With Dr. Jenn," the symptoms of common Sexually Transmitted Diseases and Sexually Transmitted Infections are explored, as well as the correct way to put on a condom.

SPONSOR: Jeans 4 Justice
www.jeans4justice.org

THE DEN RECOMMEND
"I Love Female Orgasm" by Dorian Solot and Marshall Miller



Easy A - Movie Rental Recommendation!

Easy A is a teen angst movie from 2010, which pays homage to the best of the 1980s teen flicks.

It is all about sex, although there is no sex.

I loved the lead character, actress Emma Stone, who guides us through this story with the use of a video blog. She is a strong, intelligent, funny teenage girl. She has a quirky yet loving relationship with her parents, and despite her sarcasm, is very compassionate.

It's a poignant tale about teen sex, popularity in high school, rumors, authenticity, and friendship. I laughed, I cried (ok, not really, but I did tear up a bit at the end), and I applauded when it was over.

If any of this resonates with you, it's definitely a worthwhile rental.

Jennifer Gunsaullus, Ph.D.

Sex Therapy & Relationship Counseling in San Diego

Anal Sex: Advice From a Gay Man to Straight Women

What do straight women need to know about anal play? This episode of "In the Den with Dr. Jenn" examines anal sex advice for women through the eyes of a gay man.

SPECIAL GUEST:
LGBT San Diego Comedian

SPONSOR:
V Fit San Diego

THE DEN RECOMMEND:
Tristan Taormino's website www.puckerup.com

New Year for Growth through Compassion

"I'm doing so well! This personal growth stuff is a piece of cake and feels good!"

"Crap. I screwed up again. I suck at this stuff and just can't do it right."

Two steps forward and one step back. This makes sense. Personal growth is a learning and integration process. Part of the process is stumbling. If you already knew the path and had the answers, you would be at your destination. But it truly is a journey not a destination; a journey that involves pulling back layers, acceptance, and continually choosing to be on your journey.

I was working with a male client who wanted to be kinder to his girlfriend. He often snapped at her in frustration, despite being deeply in love with her. He was mimicking the patterns from his upbringing. His commitment to this unlearning and new learning allowed for impressive progress. However, on one occasion when we spoke, he was bemoaning a recent snapping incident and harshly blaming himself. We spoke about shifting from blaming to responsibility, and how to engage in personal growth with compassion.

Cheri Huber, Buddhist teacher, writes, "Rejection does not lead to compassion. Compassion leads to compassion. Rejection leads to rejection."

Mentally abusing yourself only adds fuel to the fire of negativity and frustration. Perhaps it would be helpful to view the "one step back" as actually a "step to the side." With your two steps forward, you will have new perspective on your patterns, even when it feels like you're still repeating them. This side view can allow the space for reflection and analysis, instead of rejection and negativity.

It's impossible to know where your personal growth journey will lead. What is possible to know is that you will stumble on the journey - and that's alright.

Jennifer Gunsaullus, Ph.D.

Sex Therapy & Relationship Counseling in San Diego

How to increase desire & increase libido - Sex Tip from Dr. Jenn #19

Like many folks, you may have lost your desire for your partner, or feel that your libido is lagging. This quick sex tip from Dr. Jenn Gunsaullus can increase you sexual desire and improve your sexual creativity.

Also, if you’re a woman struggling with low desire in your long-term relationship, this online desire course can help you understand why you don’t want to have sex with your partner anymore.

~Dr. Jenn Gunsaullus, San Diego Sexologist & Sexuality Speaker