242: Overcoming religious sexual shame with Natasha Helfer

Addressing Religious Sexual Shame with Jessa Zimmerman and Natasha Helfer

In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman chats with sex therapist Natasha Helfer about religious sexual shame. They discuss its origins, the impact it has on individuals, and ways to overcome it. Natasha shares insights from her personal background, professional experiences, and offers practical advice through the 'pep talk' approach (Permission, Education, Practice, Talk). The episode also explores various religious teachings and their effects on sexual behavior and health, delivering valuable information for those trying to reconcile their sexual and religious identities.

00:00 Introduction to Better Sex Podcast

00:47 Guest Introduction: Natasha Helfer

01:19 Understanding Religious Sexual Shame

03:02 Purity Culture and Its Impact

05:51 Sexual Shame and Its Consequences

08:53 Navigating Sexual Shame in Relationships

10:44 Recognizing and Addressing Sexual Shame

13:25 Therapeutic Approaches to Sexual Shame

16:32 Managing Sexual Shame Within Religious Contexts

22:17 Practical Steps to Overcome Sexual Shame

30:24 Resources and Support for Sexual Shame

37:25 Conclusion and Contact Information

Want to be a guest on the show to share your personal story? Don't worry, it can be anonymous! Reach out at [email protected]

Bio:

Natasha Helfer is an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist/Supervisor and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with almost 25 years of experience (licensed in UT, KS & WI). Her expertise lies in the intersection of conservative religious upbringings and sexuality, specifically in the area of deconstructing internalized sexual shame. She runs a group practice, Symmetry Counseling, where services focus on helping people with religious trauma, reclaiming sexual desire, mixed-faith relationships, coming out journeys, healing sexual shame or trauma, and exploring sexual authenticity. Natasha is the author of two books: Check Your Baggage: Unpack the Messages Getting in the Way of Your Sex Life and One Family, Two Views: How to Fortify Your Mixed-Faith Mormon Marriage. She’s the Director of the Program in Religion and Mental Health Treatment at the Buehler Institute at the Buehler Institute (learnsextherapy.com) where she provides a 12-hour APA approved competency certificate called: Sex, Love & Conservative Faith. Natasha was excommunicated from the Mormon church in 2021, for her advocacy in regards to sexual health. You can find her at natashahelfer.com and @natashahelfermft where she podcasts, runs a membership and offers you all kinds of helpful resources.

More info and resources:

Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcast

Secret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcast