In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman is joined by Paula Leech, a therapist and author who returns to discuss her book on overcoming anxiety in sex and relationships. The conversation delves into how anxiety manifests in intimate settings, including performance anxiety, body image issues, and past traumas. Leech explains the importance of understanding and interacting with one's anxiety, offering actionable steps for fostering a healthier mindset, relaxing the body, and improving intimate connections with partners.

00:00 Introduction to Better Sex Podcast

00:44 Guest Introduction: Paula Leech on Anxiety in Sex

01:55 Understanding Anxiety and Its Impact

07:31 Anxiety in Sexual Performance and Body Image

10:17 Managing Anxiety in Intimate Relationships

20:53 Practical Steps to Overcome Anxiety

30:05 Conclusion and Resources

Want to take my quiz, How big a problem is your sex life? https://www.sexlifequiz.com

Paula's Bio:

I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Family and Human Development at Arizona State University and then went on to receive my Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at the University of Massachusetts, at Boston. Post family therapy licensure, I became AASECT (American Association for Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists) certified as a Sex Therapist and worked with individuals, relationships, and families in private practice in Quincy, Massachusetts for over ten years. In that time, I received AASECT certification as a Supervisor of Sex Therapy, and co-founded a sex therapy agency and training institute where we saw clients in addition to training therapists to become competent, confident sex therapists themselves. I continue to regularly present at various training institutes as well as Universities and therapy agencies across the US.

Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.

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

How Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.com

The Course – https://www.intimacywithease.com

The Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.com

Podcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.com

Access the Free webinar: Intimacy Made Easy: 3 Secrets to Bridging Libido Differences: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

59: Susie Steiner, Julian Barnes, narrator Beverly Klein and The Book Group

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