Welcome to episode 361 of Sexology Podcast! Today I am delighted to be speaking with Michelle Renee. In this episode, we discuss Michelle’s journey going through an unhealthy relationship and problematic childhood, addressing trauma and building communication skills and learning to transition to a sexual environment you can be comfortable in and confident with. 

Michelle Renee, a West Michigan native, delves into the personal nature of her work, shaped by generational experiences. Raised in a household with communication challenges, she reflects on her parents' tumultuous relationship and her own journey through an 18-year marriage that led to self-discovery. 

After her mother's death in 2002 and a complicated relationship with her father, Michelle found a turning point in a sex education workshop in 2014. This marked the beginning of her transformative journey toward self-love, body acceptance, and courageous life choices. 

Michelle's career shift into professional cuddling became a catalyst for healing from past wounds. She later expanded her expertise through Surrogate Partner Therapy training, becoming a leader in the field. Michelle founded local Sex Geekdom hubs, contributed to professional groups, and in 2023, became the San Diego Section Leader for AASECT. 

As an intimacy guide, Michelle supports clients across the spectrum of human connection, emphasizing the importance of platonic to erotic relationships. Her passion lies in assisting individuals with trauma history, a commitment that echoes her mother's self-work. 

In this episode, you will hear: 

• How surrogate partner therapy involves collaboration with a talk therapist 
• How she discovered sexuality exploration through Betty Dodson's work 
• Why Michelle engaged in professional cuddling to learn about boundaries 
• The importance of advocating for one's needs and understanding mutual touch 
• Asexuality spectrum: Enjoying sex without experiencing sexual attraction 
• How learning sexual skills can be challenging in high-pressure environments 
• The need for choices and understanding oneself in the context of erotic energy 
• Addressing trauma and building communication skills 
• Learning to engage on a basic human level for physical contact 

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Podcast Produced by Pete Bailey - http://petebailey.net/audio