<p><strong>Exploring Intimacy and Connection: A Conversation with Holly Nelson</strong></p><p>In this episode, we speak with Holly Nelson, the founder of the Connection Couch and a licensed professional counselor specializing in intimacy, sexuality, and emotional connection. </p><p>Holly shares her journey from a rebellious LDS upbringing to becoming a sex-positive, queer and kink-affirming therapist. She discusses her various certifications, including EMDR and advanced EFT training, and her passion for helping clients through shame, trauma, and anxiety related to sexuality. Holly also dives into her reasons for founding the Connection Couch and the importance of communication and negotiation in both monogamous and polyamorous relationships. </p><p>Additionally, she addresses the impact of cultural and religious teachings on sexual shame, the role of feminist porn in healthy sexual relationships, and her techniques for helping clients recover from sexual trauma. Finally, Holly highlights the significance of self-love and the therapeutic practices that individuals and couples can incorporate into their daily lives to foster intimacy and connection.</p><p>00:00 Introduction to Holly Nelson and Her Work</p><p>01:11 Holly's Teenage Years and Early Influences</p><p>02:38 Exploring Sexuality and Overcoming Shame</p><p>05:09 Journey into Sex Therapy</p><p>07:06 Creating the Connection Couch</p><p>10:40 Navigating Intimacy in Long-Term Relationships</p><p>18:11 The Importance of Self-Love and Personal Growth</p><p>24:44 The Impact of Pornography on Society</p><p>26:01 Couples and Pornography: Challenges and Misconceptions</p><p>27:40 Exploring Feminist and Holistic Porn</p><p>29:16 Common Kinks and Desires in Therapy</p><p>30:41 Approaches to Sex Therapy for Individuals and Couples</p><p>33:30 Ethical Non-Monogamy and Polyamory</p><p>35:55 Addressing Sexual Trauma in Therapy</p><p>41:25 Therapist Self-Care and Wellbeing</p><p>43:16 Future Aspirations and Closing Thoughts</p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.theconnectioncouch.com/">http://www.theconnectioncouch.com/</a></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091893859082">https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091893859082</a></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/sextherapywithholly/">https://www.instagram.com/sextherapywithholly/</a></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@sextherapywithholly?lang=en">https://www.tiktok.com/@sextherapywithholly?lang=en</a></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.reddit.com/user/TheConnectionCouch/">https://www.reddit.com/user/TheConnectionCouch/</a></p>