The Natasha Helfer Podcast

Welcome to Part 4 of “Uncoupling the Myth” where Natasha and guests challenge the narrative that non-monogamy destroys relationships. After a recent podcast episode on this very topic, Natasha was flooded with messages—hundreds of people thanking her for validating their relationship choices and lived experiences. That response made it clear: these voices deserve more airtime. So in this series, we’re amplifying real stories and offering a more hopeful, grounded, and nuanced view than what you typically hear about. To be clear; as both a relationship and sexuality expert, Natasha is not here to advocate for non-monogamy or monogamy—she’s here...

Welcome to Part 4 of the Lucy in the Sky with Dinahs series where Natasha discusses psychedelic-assisted therapy within high-demand religious context of Sexual and Religious Trauma. Natasha is joined by Amy Rossi and Aimee Heffernan.

Note that neither Natasha or the Amie’s are doctors. They do not condone illegal behavior. Please make sure you know your local and state laws before using psychedelics.

For upcoming CEs, go to: learnreligiontherapy.com

Or

​​https://learnreligiontherapy.com/course/3ce-psychedelic-assisted-therapy

The next CE will be Friday, November 7th, 2025 from 9am-12pm MST. Note th...

Welcome to Part 3 of “Uncoupling the Myth” where Natasha and guests challenge the narrative that non-monogamy destroys relationships. After a recent podcast episode on this very topic, Natasha was flooded with messages—hundreds of people thanking her for validating their relationship choices and lived experiences. That response made it clear: these voices deserve more airtime. So in this series, we’re amplifying real stories and offering a more hopeful, grounded, and nuanced view than what you typically hear about. To be clear; as both a relationship and sexuality expert, Natasha is not here to advocate for non-monogamy or monogamy—she’s here...

Welcome to Part 3 of the Lucy in the Sky with Dinahs series where Natasha discusses psychedelic-assisted therapy within high-demand religious context of Sexual and Religious Trauma. Natasha is joined by Amy Rossi and Aimee Heffernan.

Note that neither Natasha or the Amie’s are doctors. They do not condone illegal behavior. Please make sure you know your local and state laws before using psychedelics.

For upcoming CEs, go to: learnreligiontherapy.com

Or

​​https://learnreligiontherapy.com/course/3ce-psychedelic-assisted-therapy

The next CE will be Friday, November 7th, 2025 from 9am-12pm MST. Note t...

Natasha is joined by Danny Lamoreaux to discuss psychological evaluations that are now being offered at Symmetry Solutions!

You can find more on Danny here: https://symcounseling.com/daniel-lamoreaux/

To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To watch the video of this podcast, you can subscribe to Natasha’s channel on Youtube and follow her professional Facebook page at natashahelfer LCMFT, CST-S. You can find all her cool resources at natashahelfer.com. 

The information shared on this program is informational and should not...

Welcome to Part 2 of the Lucy in the Sky with Dinahs series where Natasha discusses psychedelic-assisted therapy within high-demand religious context of Sexual and Religious Trauma. Natasha is joined by Amy Rossi and Aimee Heffernan. 

Note that neither Natasha or the Amie’s are doctors. They do not condone illegal behavior. Please make sure you know your local and state laws before using psychedelics.

For upcoming CEs, go to: learnreligiontherapy.com

Or

​​https://learnreligiontherapy.com/course/3ce-psychedelic-assisted-therapy

The next CE will be Friday, November 7th, 2025 from 9am-12pm MST. Note th...

Join Natasha not only on this episode, but on a lifestyle cruise in February 2026!

Join Natasha February 11-17th 2026 on a cruise leaving out of Tampa, Florida. 80% of the cruise is already booked so make sure to book now!

You can grab a package and work with Natasha on the ship. Sign up before January 1st and you get the early bird special:

Natasha packages:

$750 per couple

$675 per couple - early bird (before January 1st)

Payment plans are available. For further que...

Welcome to Part 2 of “Uncoupling the Myth” where Natasha and guests challenge the narrative that non-monogamy destroys relationships. After a recent podcast episode on this very topic, Natasha was flooded with messages—hundreds of people thanking her for validating their relationship choices and lived experiences. That response made it clear: these voices deserve more airtime. So in this series, we’re amplifying real stories and offering a more hopeful, grounded, and nuanced view than what you typically hear about. To be clear; as both a relationship and sexuality expert, Natasha is not here to advocate for non-monogamy or monogamy—she’s here...

Jennilyn Potter, Tooele Advocacy Coordinator, joins Natasha on this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast.

Jennilyn Potter possesses over six years of diverse experience in professional communications, including public speaking, tour guiding, marketing, and comprehensive event planning. She thrives in collaborative environments, effectively engaging with individuals from various backgrounds in high-pressure situations. Her passion for community service led her to work in victim advocacy. By connecting with survivors and listening to their impactful stories, Jennilyn strives to raise awareness about the critical issues of sexual assault in the Tooele Valley while promoting preventive measures. She is co...

Natasha is joined by Rachel Larsen, ACMHC, on this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast as they break down the new LDS garment changes.

Rachel is a provider at Symmetry Counseling. Rachel believes in the power of human connection and the power that comes from joining together in healing processes. She is passionate about radical self-acceptance and authenticity and believes honesty and acceptance are vital to growth and healing. Rachel strives to provide a safe and welcoming space for all clients, no matter their pace or life challenges. She takes a collaborative approach to treatment planning and...

In this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast, Sara Rands, ACMHC, and Dee-Dee Darby Duffin join to discuss A.R.T. and Trauma Therapy.

Both Sara and Dee-Dee are providers at Symmetry Solutions and you can find out more here:

For more on Sara, go here: https://symcounseling.com/sara-rands/

For more on Dee-Dee, go here: https://symcounseling.com/dee-dee-darby-duffin/

To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To watch the video of this podcast, you can subscribe to...

Natasha is joined by Amy Rossi and Amiee Heffernan to discuss the intersection of psychedelics, religion and sexuality.

Aimee Heffernan is a retired sex therapist turned sex witch.

Amy Rossi left the LDS faith and found that plant medicine helped heal her along the way. She is currently going to school and getting ready to start her dissertation in psychedelic plant medicines. 

To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To watch the video of this podcast, you can subscribe to N...

Natasha is joined by AJ, an ex-Mormon hippie, on this episode of the podcast. This is the first in a series called, "Uncoupling the Myth":

A message from Natasha: Welcome to our series: “Uncoupling the Myth,” where we challenge the narrative that non-monogamy destroys relationships. After a recent podcast episode on this very topic, I was flooded with messages—hundreds of people thanking me for validating their relationship choices and lived experiences. That response made it clear: these voices deserve more airtime. So in this series, we’re amplifying real stories and offering a more hopeful, grounded, and nuanc...

Sarah Stroup, LMFT, RPT-S, joins Natasha on this episode of The Natasha Helfer Podcast as they discuss legislative updates relating to the world of mental health in Utah.

Sarah Stroup is a Utah-based licensed marriage and family therapist, registered play therapist, and supervisor who feels privileged to support individuals and families through her group practice, where she specializes in attachment across the lifespan. Her understanding of the local mental health landscape informs her work as the legislative chair for the Utah Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, where she advocates at the state capitol. Like m...

Natasha is joined by Jenny Elledge as they discuss a new podcast, "Architecture of Abuse”:

’Architecture of Abuse’ explores the widespread issue of child sexual abuse in Utah, with a focus on how the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has historically responded to reports of abuse within its community. Hosted by Alyssa Grenfell, alongside veteran attorney Tim Kosnoff, the series features conversations with survivors, clinical therapists, sociologists, historians, journalists, and researchers—some of whom are active LDS members.

Rooted in compassion and a call for accountability, ’Architecture of Abuse’ examines the c...

Dr. Pebble Kranz, MD, FECSM, IF, joins Natasha on this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast to discuss sexual health and intimacy during cancer care.

Dr. Kranz is a family physician and sexual medicine specialist, graduated from Brown University's Medical School in 2007 and completed residency with the University of Rochester Family Medicine Residency Program in 2011 with a focus on psychosocial aspects of primary care. After serving as residency faculty and a primary care doctor for the University of Rochester, Dr. Kranz pursued additional training in sexual medicine and gender medicine, earning fellowships from the European C...

Please note: This episode has been updated to reflect a minor edit made after the initial relase.

On this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast, one of Natasha's providers, Sara Rands, ACMHC, joins to discuss her journey with a chronic illness and how that affects intimacy.

She’s Master Certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), a brain-based therapy that clears stuck emotional patterns without the need to relive painful stories. Her approach blends structure and soul: existential therapy, mindfulness, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP), and current training in the NARM model for complex trauma.

S...

On this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast, one of Natasha's providers, Sara Rands, ACMHC, joins to discuss her journey with a chronic illness and how that affects intimacy.

She’s Master Certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), a brain-based therapy that clears stuck emotional patterns without the need to relive painful stories. Her approach blends structure and soul: existential therapy, mindfulness, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP), and current training in the NARM model for complex trauma.

Sara works especially well with gifted, neurodiverse, and highly sensitive clients—analytical minds, deep thinkers, and those who’ve always moved...

Colleen Johnston joins Natasha on this episode of The Natasha Helfer Podcast.

Colleen Johnston is a mother of nine whose life journey spans the extremes of Mormon orthodoxy and radical self-liberation. Raised in both conservative Utah and rural Maine, Colleen was shaped by the rigid expectations of purity culture and the deep shame often instilled by religious teachings around sexuality. After surviving public shaming, sexual trauma, addiction, homelessness, and incarceration, she returned to the Church and immersed herself in its teachings—only to later confront disturbing truths about its history and leave it behind for good. For ne...

Carolee and Britton Beckham join Natasha on this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast. Both Carolee and Britton are 6th generation Mormons. Married in this high demand relgion, infidelity became a challenge for them to navigate. As they used the process of the church, they found that it miserably failed to help them heal. This was the necessary catalyst that propelled them to leave the church and find their own healing and spiritual connection. 

For more on the Beckhams, visit their website: https://themagicalstoryofus.com

To help keep this podcast going, please consider do...

Dr. Stefani Goerlich joins Natasha on this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast to discuss her new book, "With Sprinkles on Top: Everything Vanilla People and Their Kinky Partners Need to Know to Communicate, Explore, and Connect."

Stefani is a Forensic Sexologist and Clinical Social Worker who has been recognized as one of the world's leading experts in working with Gender, Relationship, and Sexuality Diversities. 

In the past, Stefani has worked with high-risk young people, adolescents with problematic sexual behaviors, pediatric and adult survivors of sexual trauma,  commercial sex workers, and survivors of human trafficking. Sh...

Natasha is joined by Mark Cusack in this episode of The Natasha Helfer Podcast. They discuss all things "fluid". 

Mark Cusack (he/they) is a Scottish author, lecturer, content creator and coach specialising in supporting people with complex, fluid or undefined sexuality or gender. He runs the online platform @notdefining which provides information about the less recognised parts of the LGBTQ+ spectrum.

Mark gives seminars for trainee psychotherapists and is an expert consultant for several LGBTQ+ organisations. He also runs an online mentoring group on Patreon. He was formerly LGBTQ+ representative for the UK Civil S...

Paula Leech joins Natasha on this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast to discuss her book, "Overcoming Anxiety in Sex and Relationships."

"Learn how anxiety, stress, and pressure affect pleasure, connection, and sexual functioning. This book explores how anxiety shapes our physiology, understanding of ourselves, and our interactions with the world. Paula Leech guides readers to identify key sources of anxiety — from family and culture to relationship dynamics and sexual trauma.

"Offering practical tips and techniques, Leech encourages readers to rethink their definitions of sex, sexuality, and intimacy. Through mindfulness and embodiment exercises, she provides to...

Allan and Kattie Mount join this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast to chat about handling mixed faith marriages. Allan and Kattie are behind the "Marriage on a Tightrope" podcast and have an upcoming workshop with Natasha.    To join the workshop, go to:   tightropemarriage.com   Then select "Join our Workshop" in the top right.   The 6-week workshop starts April 6th via Zoom and will run every Sunday from 7pm-9pm (except Mother's Day and Easter), with a 7th optional week on sexuality. The sessions will be recorded and you can watch after.   For questions, feel free to email: marriageonatightrope@gmail.com   ...

Natsha is joined by Camden Morgante on this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast to discuss her book, "Recovering from Purity Culture". Camden is a licensed psychologist, coach, speaker, and author and her mission is to help folks heal their faith, sexuality, and relationships from toxic beliefs.

To find out more about Camden, you can visit her webiste: drcamden.com

To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To watch the video of this podcast, you can subscribe to Natasha’s channel on Youtube and follo...

Natasha is joined by Dr. Mark Gregory Karris to discuss his book, "Diabolical Trinity: Healing Religious Trauma from a Wrathful God, Tormenting Hell, and a Sinful Self".

Dr. Mark Gregory Karris is a licensed marriage and family therapist in full-time private practice in San Diego, California. He specializes in religious trauma, men’s issues, and couples therapy. He is a frequent workshop presenter and the author of several books, including "The Diabolical Trinity: Healing Religious Trauma from a Wrathful God, Tormenting Hell, and a Sinful Self" and "Beyond Fairy Tales: A Couple's Guide to Finding Clarity, Doing th...

Angie Millet joins Natasha on this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast. They discuss current events happening at BYU.

For more on Angie Millet, MSW Intern: https://symcounseling.com/angie-millet/

To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To watch the video of this podcast, you can subscribe to Natasha’s channel on Youtube and follow her professional Facebook page at natashahelfer LCMFT, CST-S. You can find all her cool resources at natashahelfer.com. 

The information shared on this program is informational and should...

On this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast, Natasha is joined by Dr. Tom Murray to discuss the idea of "Over Controlled."

Dr. Tom Murray, author, international trainer, educator, and couples and sex therapist-supervisor, is a widely sought-after expert in sexuality and intimate relationships. For more than two decades, Murray has worked with everyday folks to embrace their weirdness, shed labels and shame, lean into anxiety, and build better and stronger relationships. Murray has appeared in numerous venues, including the Huffington Post and The Daily Mail, as well as radio, television, and podcasts, including the Practice of...

On this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast, Natasha is joined by other providers, Angela "Angie" Millet, MSW Intern, and Jana Spangler, IPC, to discuss current events.

You can find out more about them here:

Angela "Angie" Millet, MSW Intern: https://symcounseling.com/angie-millet/

Jana Spangler, IPC: https://symcounseling.com/jana-spangler/

To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To watch the video of this podcast, you can subscribe to Natasha’s channel on Youtube and follow her professional Facebo...

Natasha is joined by Erika Nordfelt, LCPC, CMHC, on this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast. They discuss her book, "Don't Walk Alone: Understanding the Dive Gift of Connection While Navigating Shame".

Erika practices in Rexburg and Picatello. For more about her and her practice, go here: 

https://www.greenstonecounseling.com/

To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To watch the video of this podcast, you can subscribe to Natasha’s channel on Youtube and follow her professional Facebook page at natashahelfer LCMFT...

Jennifer Vencill and Lauren Fogel Mersy join Natasha on this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast. They wrote a book, "Desire: An Inclusive Guide to Navigating Libido Differences in Relationships".

"A radically inclusive, sex-positive guide to managing the inevitable libido differences in our relationships, authored by two certified sex therapists who are passionate about good sex

2024 Distinguished Book Award Winner, selected by the American Psychological Association’s Division 44"

You can find the book anywhere that books are sold including on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Desire-Inclusive-Navigating-Differences-Relationships-ebook/dp/B0BN5RZBRC?ref_=as...

Mike Fuller joins Natasha on this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast.

Mike worked as a full-time seminary teacher of the LDS church for twenty years. He summarizes his reason to change careers as a “journey from orthodoxy to compassion”. He has found that making decisions based on values has been fulfilling. He received both his B.A in Communication and Psychology in 2002 and  M.A in Education in 2008 from Boise State University. He recently earned a Masters in Social Work from Penn West University in 2024 and is licensed in Utah as a Certified Social Worker.

You...

Juliane (Jules) Taylor Shore joins this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast. She has a new book, "Setting Boundaries that Stick: How Neurobiology can Help You Rewire Your Brain to Feel Safe, Connected, and Empowered."

In her own words: I’m a therapist, author, teacher, and mom who is creating spaces where people can move into more self-compassion, self-trust, empowerment, and integrity. I regularly teach and speak to people from all around the world, and translate new understandings in neurobiology into practices that can support brain change. 

I’m an integrative experiential psychotherapist, which means that...

Sara Rands & Ian Robertson join Natasha on this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast. They share their on-line dating story while providing you some skills to dating to remember.

Sara is a provider at Symmetry Solutions and to find out more about her, go here: https://symcounseling.com/sara-rands/

To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To watch the video of this podcast, you can subscribe to Natasha’s channel on Youtube and follow her professional Facebook page at natashahelfer LCMFT, CST-S. You can find all he...

This episode is being re-released for your enjoyement. Please enjoy the episode.

Natasha Helfer interviews Dr. Gina Ogden, PhD, LMFT (August 9, 1935 – November 2, 2018) on one of the most common complaints that get brought to sex therapists: low female sexual desire.

Gina shares years of experience where she helps us ask pivotal questions to break this construct apart. What is it that we desire? Do women give themselves permission to experience pleasure? Gina instructs on her 4-dimensional model approach to what she calls the Integrative Wheel of Sexual Experience – where we delve into Body, Mind, Heart and Spir...

This episode is being re-released for your enjoyement. Please enjoy the episode.

Natasha Helfer interviews Richard and Lawrence Siegel, in the continuing discussion of why the framing of sexual issues as addiction is problematic. What are the neurological/medical explanations currently taking place within the sexual field? What are the diagnostic implications? What is the research that has been happening for the last 20 years on these issues? Is research interpreted and applied correctly? What do many of the terms being thrown around even mean? And can evidence-based/peer-reviewed research truly be found to support the addiction model...

Natasha is joined by Dr. Betty Martin to discuss consent on this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast. 

This episode is being re-released for your enjoyement. Please enjoy the episode. Natasha has an upcoming group that you can sign up for: Pornography Dilemma Online Group with Natasha This group has been developed to help couples overcome the common struggles with pornography use within the marital contract. During this group, we will: Begin to deal with and repair the typical secrecy/betrayal cycles that have historically occurred in the relationship with sexual media. Understand evidence-based information about sexual media allowing well-informed decisions to be made based on science and our values instead of myths and folklore. Help couples...

This episode is being re-released for your enjoyement.

Please enjoy the episode.

Natasha has an upcoming group that you can sign up for:

Pornography Dilemma Online Group with Natasha

This group has been developed to help couples overcome the common struggles with pornography use within the marital contract.

During this group, we will:

Natasha is joined by Rachel Larsen on this episode of the Natasha Helfer Rachel Larsen interviews Natasha Helfer about the types of issues couples come into therapy in regards to distress about porn use. They also discuss an upcoming support/educational group.

Pornography Dilemma Online Group with Natasha

This group has been developed to help couples overcome the common struggles with pornography use within the marital contract.

During this group, we will:

Natasha is joined by Ian Kerner on this episdoe of the Natasha Helfer Podcast.

Ian Kerner, PhD, LMFT  is the co-Director of the sex therapy program at the Institute for Contemporary Psychotherapy and contributes regularly on the topic of sexual health for CNN. He is the New York Times best-selling author of "She Comes First" (Harper Collins) which has been translated into more than a dozen languages and he maintains a private practice in NYC dedicated to honoring the centrality of sexuality in his patients’ lives.

Natasha and Ian discuss sexual scripts and also refer to...

Natasha is joined by Kerry Pray in this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast. Kerry recently wrote and edited a book, "The Book of Queer Mormon Joy."

The story of queer Mormons is one that some might not expect to be joyful. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has traditionally asserted that queerness is counter to God’s plan and that gender as determined at birth is eternal. Any marriage other than a monogamous pairing of male and female is “counterfeit.” So called “wickedness,” we are told, “never was happiness.”

But queer Mormons tell different...

Evita "Lavitaloca" Sawyer joins Natasha on this episode on the Natasha Helfer Podcast! They discuss all things nonmonogamy.

To find out more about Evita, check out her instagram profile @lavitaloca34:

 https://www.instagram.com/lavitaloca34/?hl=en

To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To watch the video of this podcast, you can subscribe to Natasha’s channel on Youtube and follow her professional Facebook page at natashahelfer LCMFT, CST-S. You can find all her cool resources at natashahelfer.com.

This podcast add...

Natasha is joined by other providers on the Symmetry team to discuss current events, in particlar, the recently released Trans policy by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To watch the video of this podcast, you can subscribe to Natasha’s channel on Youtube and follow her professional Facebook page at natashahelfer LCMFT, CST-S. You can find all her cool resources at natashahelfer.com.

This podcast addresses many topics around mental health and sexuality and may not be...

Natasha is joined in this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast by one of her providers, Sara Rands, ACMHC, to discuss "Faith Transitions and Existential Therapy". 

You can find out more on Sara by going here: https://symcounseling.com/sara-rands/

To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To watch the video of this podcast, you can subscribe to Natasha’s channel on Youtube and follow her professional Facebook page at natashahelfer LCMFT, CST-S. You can find all her cool resources at natashahelfer.com.

This pod...

Natasha is joined by other providers on the Symmetry team to discuss current events.

To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To watch the video of this podcast, you can subscribe to Natasha’s channel on Youtube and follow her professional Facebook page at natashahelfer LCMFT, CST-S. You can find all her cool resources at natashahelfer.com.

This podcast addresses many topics around mental health and sexuality and may not be suitable for minors. Some topics may elicit a trigger or emotional response so please care fo...

Natasha sat down with Brittney Hartley, the author of "No Nonsense Spirituality."

If you're looking for a fresh perspective on spirituality without the need for blind belief, this is the perfect listen for you. Listen to discover practical tips and insights for incorporating spirituality into your everyday life.

You can find out more by going here: https://nononsensespirituality.com

and on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nononsensespirituality/

To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To watch the video of this podcast, you...

Dr. Marie Thouin joined Natasha on this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast. Dr. Thouin is the author of the exciting new book "What is Compersion? Understanding Positive Empathy in Consensually Non-Monogamous Relationships." Can you believe this is the first scholarly comprehensive book on compersion?!

You can find out more at: whatiscompersion.com

She is also on Instagram at: @love_insight_dating

To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To watch the video of this podcast, yo...

Trisha Jensen joins Natasha on this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast as they discuss mixed faith marriages.

Trisha Jensen is a Wellness coach with six years of coaching experience. She works with individuals, couples, and families struggling with faith crises, faith transitions, and navigating inter-faith relationships. Building trust, establishing healing pathways, and encouraging personal growth are hallmarks of Trisha’s coaching style and experience.

You can find more on Trisha here: https://symcounseling.com/trisha-jensen/

To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To wa...

Natasha is joined by Rita Rutland to discuss holistic medicine, ketamine and wellness. She runs Restorative Halth Primary Care and Ketamine Clinic. She is a Family Nurse practitioner and primarily specializes in adult medicine. Her focus is health promotion rather than disease management. Lifestyle modification rather than medications. Her background is alternative health and sports medicine.

She grew up in Japan immersed in holistic medicine and was a personal trainer before transitioning into a nursing career. She worked over 15 years as a nurse before becoming a Nurse Practitioner.

She provides a fee for service/concierge...

On this podcast of the Natasha Helfer Podcast, Natasha is joined by Allison Shiffler (@therapywithallison_) for a live discussion on repressed sexuality and the religious culture of shame, and more specifically, how this affects individuals in the context of sex addiction, impulsive behavior, hookup trauma, and the pain of hiding what could be healthy authenticity.   Allison can be found on:    Psychology today   To schedule time with Allison, visit the link in her instagram bio: https://www.instagram.com/therapywithallison_/   You can also check out her website: https://www.therapy-with-allison.com
Natasha also has openings for new clients: https://symcounseling.com...

Natasha is joined by other providers on the Symmetry team to discuss current events.

To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To watch the video of this podcast, you can subscribe to Natasha’s channel on Youtube and follow her professional Facebook page at natashahelfer LCMFT, CST-S. You can find all her cool resources at natashahelfer.com.

This podcast addresses many topics around mental health and sexuality and may not be suitable for minors. Some topics may elicit a trigger or emotional response so please care fo...

Natasha is joined by Natalie Henry on this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast.  Natalie is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (LMHCA) in Washington State. Natalie has a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Westminster University in Salt Lake City, Utah. Natalie has a Bachelor of Science from the University of Utah with a minor in English.  

For more on Natalie, check out her website: https://www.nataliehenrytherapy.com

To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To watch the video of this po...

Natasha is joined by Jordan Rullo to discuss couples sex therapy! Jordan is a Board Certified Clinical Health Psychologist, AASECT Certified Sex Therapist and Sex Therapy Supervisor, and Certified Gottman Therapist. She is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality treatment based on the latest research and evidence. Therapy with her is interactive, involves weekly homework, and is focused on meeting your treatment goals.

For more, you can visit her website: https://www.jordanrullo.com

To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To watch the...

Jonathan Alder joins Natasha on this episode of the podcast. Jonathan shares his experience of being gay while at BYU. He recently wrote a book, "Closeted," sharing his experience. You can find out more on his webiste:

http://jonathan-alder.com/books/closeted.php

To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To watch the video of this podcast, you can subscribe to Natasha’s channel on Youtube and follow her professional Facebook page at natashahelfer LCMFT, CST-S. You can find all her cool resources at natashahelfer.com.

Natasha is joined by other providers on the Symmetry team to discuss current events.

For more on RAINN, go to: rainn.org

To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To watch the video of this podcast, you can subscribe to Natasha’s channel on Youtube and follow her professional Facebook page at natashahelfer LCMFT, CST-S. You can find all her cool resources at natashahelfer.com.

This podcast addresses many topics around mental health and sexuality and may not be suitable for minors. Some topics may e...

This was so exciting to be able to collaborate with Mormon Stories in interviewing the one and only Emily Nagoski regarding her new book Come Together - talking about long term relationships and sexuality. Such a relevant topic for everyone! and especially relevant for couples who are deconstructing high demand religion... and renegotiating their sex lives... with so many potential myths and stories that are not helpful nor accurate.

To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To watch the video of this podcast, you can subscribe to Natasha’s ch...

Melanie Macatee joins Natasha on this episode of the podcast. She shares her journey about finding herself through religious trauma.

To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To watch the video of this podcast, you can subscribe to Natasha’s channel on Youtube and follow her professional Facebook page at natashahelfer LCMFT, CST-S. You can find all her cool resources at natashahelfer.com.

This podcast addresses many topics around mental health and sexuality and may not be suitable for minors. Some topics may elicit a trigger or em...

Trisha Jensen, ICF, joins Natasha on this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast as they discuss various weight loss drugs including the benefits, risks and controversies. As a certified nutrition coach, Trisha also works with clients struggling with body image, weight loss, and relationship with food. She has several years of experience helping clients recognize the connection between nutrition and mental health.

To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To watch the video of this podcast, you can subscribe to Natasha’s channel on Youtube and follow her pro...

Natasha is joined by other providers on the Symmetry team to discuss current events.

For more on them:

Trisha Jensen, ICF: https://symcounseling.com/trisha-jensen/

Michelle Peets, LCSW: https://symcounseling.com/michelle-peets-2/

Sally "Sal" Osborne, Wellness Coach: https://symcounseling.com/sal-osborne/

To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To watch the video of this podcast, you can subscribe to Natasha’s channel on Youtube and follow her professional Facebook page at natashahelfer LCMFT, CST-S. You can find all her cool reso...

Natasha sat down down with the well-respected sex therapist and author of the thought-provoking book "The Existential Importance of the Penis" Daniel Watter.    Together they delve into deep discussions about masculinity, sexuality, and the complexity of the male experience. 

To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To watch the video of this podcast, you can subscribe to Natasha’s channel on Youtube and follow her professional Facebook page at natashahelfer LCMFT, CST-S. You can find all her cool resources at natashahelfer.com.

This podcast addresses many topics around mental h...

Natasha discusses ketamine and how it can be beneficial for a myriad of factors for you. She is joined by Jake Clark-Bellenfant, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC and Medical Director and Provider at Symmetry Solutions. Jake oversees and provides psychiatric evaluations and follow-up care for those receiving Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy and medication management. He received his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Utah and graduated from the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Vanderbilt University.

Jake has 12 years of professional experience in Mental Health and has worked with both youth and adults with a variety o...

The latest episode of The Natasha Helfer Podcast featured an insightful conversation with Sally Osborne on the challenges that lesbians and queer folks face within the LDS church. Listen as Natasha and Sal dive deep into these topics and explore ways to create a more inclusive and understanding community.   

This podcast addresses many topics around mental health and sexuality and may not be suitable for minors. Some topics may elicit a trigger or emotional response so care for yourself accordingly.

The views, thoughts and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect th...

Natasha and Aimee are getting into the "weed" in this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast! They dived into the intriguing world of cannabis and sexuality. Curious about the impact of cannabis on intimacy, pleasure and connection? Check out the episode!

This podcast addresses many topics around mental health and sexuality and may not be suitable for minors. Some topics may elicit a trigger or emotional response so care for yourself accordingly.

The views, thoughts and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or feelings of the N...

I was so excited to have had the Siegel brothers back on the show to talk about all the language that gets thrown around - consistently in clinically inaccurate ways. Especially in conservative and high-demand religious communities, the term “addiction” gets used not only by lay people, but other mental health professionals, in ways that pathologize people’s sexuality.

This podcast addresses many topics around mental health and sexuality and may not be suitable for minors. Some topics may elicit a trigger or emotional response so care for yourself accordingly.

The views, thoughts and opinions expres...

Carah Burrell joins Natasha on this episode to discuss her journey.

This podcast addresses many topics around mental health and sexuality and may not be suitable for minors. Some topics may elicit a trigger or emotional response so care for yourself accordingly.

The views, thoughts and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or feelings of the Natasha Helfer or the Natasha Helfer Podcast. We provide a platform for open and diverse discussions, and it is important to recognize that different perspectives may be shared. We encourage...

Tara Olson and Natasha Helfer, LCMFT, CST-S discuss recent legislative updates in the state of Utah which affects all kinds of minority populations. It is appalling to see the backwards steps that are being taken in conservative, religiously motivated states throughout the country that are not abiding by evidence-based research and everything we know about social justice, relational health and mental health. The ramifications of these legislations harm people, have immediate effects, and even criminalize folks in ways that can have lifelong impacts.

This podcast addresses many topics around mental health and sexuality and may not be...

I interviewed Preston Hobbs, ACMHC - who currently works for me at Symmetry Solutions, on this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast. I am so grateful he was willing to get so personal about his experience growing up Latter-day Saint/Mormon and the history he had with sexual shame from a very young age, being considered a "sex/porn addict" and the treatment approaches he faced in the LifeStar program. He shares how this affected his marriage, his relational health, his mental health and his physical health. This is far too common a story within our (and many other...

Dr. Joli Hamilton joins Natasha on this episode of The Natasha Helfer Podcast. Dr. Joli Hamilton is the relationship coach for couples who color outside the lines. She is a research psychologist, TEDx speaker, best-selling author, and AASECT (pronounced ay-sect) certified sex educator. Joli also co-hosts the Playing with Fire podcast with her anchor partner, Ken. Joli’s been featured in The New York Times, Vogue, and NPR. She’s spent the past two decades studying and reimagining what love can be if we open our imaginations to possibility. Joli helps people create non-monogamous partnerships that are custom-built for thei...

On this episode, Natasha interviewed Ellen Barnard, MSW, CSE. Ellen is a matriarch in the field and brings immense wisdom and resources. She is a Sexuality Educator and the owner of A Woman's Touch Sexuality Resource Center, a shop offering sexual health education and products in a comfortable boutique setting. It's also a website and has been sharing valuable information for decades.

For more than 35 years Ellen has been working with older folks and people with disabilities to support their desires for intimacy, love and sexual wellness. She believes that each person is unique and that sexual...

Natasha is joined by Kelly Trust again on this episode! They continue their conversation, this time on ethical non monogamy.

You can find Kelly on Instagram at: @kellymariefitmom

This podcast addresses many topics around mental health and sexuality and may not be suitable for minors. Some topics may elicit a trigger or emotional response so care for yourself accordingly.

The views, thoughts and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or feelings of the Natasha Helfer or the Natasha Helfer Podcast. We provide a platform...

In this episode, Natasha interviewed Kelly Trust. In her words, "Once upon a time I went to Brigham Young University largely in part to growing up born-in-the-covenant Mormon (meaning it was a birthright and lifestyle handed to me with a whole garbage pile of labels and expectations along with it)

"My freshman year they suspended me out for a violation of their honor code - a list of rules that align with the church on how to behave and what will get you removed from campus. It was a premarital sexual relations violation with a BYU football...

On this episode, Natasha interviewed Ellen Barnard, MSW, CSE. Ellen is a matriarch in the field and brings immense wisdom and resources. She is a Sexuality Educator and the owner of A Woman's Touch Sexuality Resource Center, a shop offering sexual health education and products in a comfortable boutique setting. It's also a website and has been sharing valuable information for decades. For more than 35 years Ellen has been working with older folks and people with disabilities to support their desires for intimacy, love and sexual wellness. She believes that each person is unique and that sexual health and...

Natasha and her team of providers discuss current events.

For more on Natasha, you can go here: https://symmetrypath.com/natasha-helfer

For more on Jenny Elledge: https://symmetrypath.com/jenny-elledge

This podcast addresses many topics around mental health and sexuality and may not be suitable for minors. Some topics may elicit a trigger or emotional response so care for yourself accordingly.

Intro ("Fisher's Hornpipe") and outro by Otter Creek

Podcast edited by: Ashley Pacini

Natasha interviewed Evelyn Hornbarger who was just declined from being able to sing in a Latter-day Saint (aka Mormon) Christmas Eve event at her local congregation. We discussed how difficult it is to face these kinds of community rejections due to shifts in belief, especially in light of the Church often preaching unity while so often ostracizing so many of us who still want to be involved. Make sure to give us a listen. I also invite you to subscribe to the podcast on YouTube and all the other spaces you find your listening pleasures (ie Spotify, iTunes, etc).   Evelyn H...

Natasha is joined by Megan Negendank, LMFT, CST, to discuss her book, “Loving Someone who has Sexual Trauma.” Megan is the Founder of her practice, Love Heal Grow.

You can find out more about Megan at: https://www.lovehealgrow.com/about-megan/

She's on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/megan.lovehealgrow/

Go to Love Heal Grow website at: lovehealgrow.com

You can find her book, “Loving Someone who has Sexual Trauma" anywhere that books are sold.

On Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Loving-Someone-Sexual-Trauma-Compassionate/dp/1648481574/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&q...

Natasha and her team of providers discuss current events.

For more on Natasha, you can go here: https://symmetrypath.com/natasha-helfer

For more on Jenny Elledge: https://symmetrypath.com/jenny-elledge

For more on Michelle Peets: https://symmetrypath.com/michelle-peets

Intro ("Fisher's Hornpipe") and outro by Otter Creek

Podcast edited by: Ashley Pacini

Natasha is joined by Kenlee Anderson to ask questions about sexually educating children.

Intro ("Fisher's Hornpipe") and outro by Otter Creek

Podcast edited by: Ashley Pacini

Natasha and team talk about their couple retreat from a fewweeks ago and the Importance of taking time with each other.

Intro ("Fisher's Hornpipe") and outro by Otter Creek

Podcast edited by: Ashley Pacini

Natasha and Allan Alexander discuss current events including General LDS Conference and what's been happening with some LDS therapists.

Intro ("Fisher's Hornpipe") and outro by Otter Creek

Podcast edited by: Ashley Pacini

Meet Kurt!   I am so excited to have had him join me on The Natasha Helfer podcast!   In his daily life, Kurt Reinhardt leads a successful career as a consultant, cherishes his role as a devoted partner and loving father, occasionally embarks on adventures, and is an enthusiastic amateur gastronaut. However, over the past decade, Kurt has also been a passionate advocate for men's health and suicide prevention. He annually spearheads a campaign known as "Dyeing to Stop Men Dying" to raise funds for the Movember Foundation, a prominent charitable organization dedicated to addressing global concerns related to men's mental he...

What are your thoughts about the use of the word “Mormon”? Is it microaggressive?   Natasha shares her thoughts on the term and her experience as a key note speaker a few months back.  

Intro ("Fisher's Hornpipe") and outro by Otter Creek

Podcast edited by: Ashley Pacini

There is a long standing history of therapists making the mistake of pathologizing human behavior through the lens of their own religious bias. Maurice Harker, founder of Sons of Helaman: Eternal Warriors, is such an example. He has created programs and written books mostly focused on “sexual self-mastery” which align with his beliefs as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (aka the Mormon Church). Braxton and Natasha discuss the ethical and problematic issues for the public to be aware of in this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast.

Research shows repeatedly that folk...

Natasha and her team of providers discuss current events.

For more on Natasha, you can go here: https://symmetrypath.com/natasha-helfer

For more on Allan Alexander: https://symmetrypath.com/glenn-allan-alexander

For more on Jenny Elledge: https://symmetrypath.com/jenny-elledge

For more on Michelle Peets: https://symmetrypath.com/michelle-peets

Intro ("Fisher's Hornpipe") and outro by Otter Creek

Podcast edited by: Ashley Pacini

Natasha interviewed a phenomenal panel of experts in the mental health field regarding the ethics of practice given the scandal that has broken about Jodi Hildebrandt. This panel will include professionals who specialize in sexuality, religion and child/adolescent development. Panelists include:

Dr. Julie Hanks - https://www.drjuliehanks.com

Aimee Heffernan - https://www.facebook.com/aimeeheff 

Clair Mellenthin - https://clairmellenthin.com

Intro ("Fisher's Hornpipe") and outro by Otter Creek

Podcast edited by: Ashley Pacini

I'm excited to be joined by Corrine Christian for this epiosde of, "Ask Me Anything!" Corrine will be bringing questions from her group described below. 

Corrine is a mother of 7 children, five via open adoption, married to her hubby for 21 years, left Mormonism in the spring of 2018. She started a private women’s online & in person group called “Women Transitioning amid Faith & Knowledge” which supports any women who’ve left all legalistic, high demand religions and  are focusing on what’s ahead, how to work through traumas and healing from adverse experiences inside those cults and out. 

Intro...

Natasha and her team of providers discuss current events including updates to BYU honing their language on honor code language regarding LGBTQ students and the church's response via the Church News website, saying there are no changes regarding their LGBTQ stance, the "Barbie" movie and how it intersects with Mormonism, and the tragedy of the Maui fires.

For more on Natasha, you can go here: https://symmetrypath.com/natasha-helfer

For more on Allan Alexander: https://symmetrypath.com/glenn-allan-alexander

For more on Jenny Elledge: https://symmetrypath.com/jenny-elledge

For more on Michelle...

I’m so pleased to have sats down with Jeff Stewart today and have a conversation regarding what the last year has been like for him and his family as he received an ambiguous cancer diagnosis. He went through surgery and treatment not knowing at times along the way what his prognosis would look like. Cancer. A scary word none of us wants to hear. One of the ways he dealt with his fears and pain was to write: writing specifically geared towards his children. 

Jeff Stewart is a healthcare consultant, scientist, inventor, award-winning playwright and father of...

I’m excited to have sat down and have a lovely vulva chat with the amazing April Davis. A compelling speaker, creative consultant, visual artist and wordsmith, April Davis has been featured in magazines, on podcasts, and on stage, sharing her wisdom, humor and knowledge as the creator of The Vagina Blog and The Vagina Blog Podcast. Her passion and drive have created an entire community around female body health, as she empowers women and vagina owners to love themselves fully while focusing on bringing light to taboo topics that we just don\’t talk enough about, like sex and...

Back by popular demand, I had the amazing Dr. Lisa Diamond back on the show to discuss some recent research that has been making some buzz out of Utah State University. We are both concerned on how, without proper context, this kind of study will get weaponized within the LDS community as well as other high-demand religious communities.   The study can be found here:   "The Impact of Changes in Religion on Health Among Sexual Minority Mormons" by Dr. Tyler Lefevor   Check out another article:   "Jana Riess: Religion can help LGBTQ Latter-day Saints’ mental health, especially if they’re out of the clos...

Jane Christie and Sara Delaney played a crucial role (along with many others) in the grassroots movement in the UK to have the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints require background checks of anyone who works with the youth of the Church. Unlike many other religious organizations, the Church has a history of NOT having Background Checks be a part of giving “callings” to folks who work with children and adolescents. This has been a concern many members worldwide have brought to the leader’s attention for decades. The Church has preferred to take an in-house approach to allega...

In this episode, Natasha interviewed “Master of Disaster.” Dr. Randy Bell is a sociologist and an economist who specializes in disaster recovery projects. He has consulted in numerous world tragedies including the World Trade Center, Flight 93, Sandy Hook, BP Oil Spill, Hurricane Katrina, the Bikini Atoll Nuclear Test sidtes, the Northridge earthquake, OJ Simpson case, Jon Benet Ramsey case, Heaven’s Gate and hundreds of others. Dr. Bell has written a book about Post-Traumatic Thriving… Yes, you read that right. Not Disorder…THRIVING. His optimism about humans’ abilities to persevere and be resilient come not only through science, but through his...

Natasha sat down with Brent Bokovoy to discuss his latest film, "Ronald’s Little Factory". Those growing up in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints receive clear messages that in order to abide by the “Law of Chastity” you should not fall to the temptation of masturbation. This belief, that masturbation is a sin, is common in fundamental, conservative & strict religions. Masturbation has long been seen within the scientific and pediatric communities as normative human behavior. We discussed the impacts these kinds of religious teachings have, when in essence, people are expected to go to war with a natu...

I’m so excited I got to talk to Lacey Marie about her journey dealing with infection and illness due to breast implants. And how she has come to terms and peace with her boobless body as well as her advocacy work to educate others.

After years of Mormonism and the need for perfection, Lacey Marie had gone to great lengths to fit into the ideal woman box that had been painted by society and The Mormon culture. In an effort to save her marriage she opted for a breast augmentation. At the end of it all sh...

Natasha is joined by Allan Alexander and Jenny Elledge to go over current topics including:

mental health stigmas in certain religious populations

award for advocacy against female genital mutilation

wave of anti-transgender bills divide religious leaders

For more on Symmetry Solutions, visit symmetrpath.com

For more on Allan, visit: https://symmetrypath.com/glenn-allan-alexander

For more on Jenny, visit: https://symmetrypath.com/jenny-elledge

Intro ("Fisher's Hornpipe") and outro by Otter Creek

Podcast edited by: Ashley Pacini

Natasha Helfer tackles some questions from the audience in regards to sex therapy!

Intro ("Fisher's Hornpipe") and outro by Otter Creek

Podcast edited by: Ashley Pacini

As I have watched in despair as the medical and general rights of our trans community members continue to get stripped in state after state, I am continually motivated to interview people who work in the field and can speak to the many issues I feel people are making decisions based on fear, bias, misinformation, bad science, bad politics and plain old discrimination. Dr. Lisa Hansen recently wrote an excellent op-ed in the Salt Lake Tribune titled “Mental health professionals see the danger in Utah’s anti-transgender law.” We will discuss her many points, as well as what she is see...

I interviewed Dr. Lacey Bagley who was facing an ecclesiastical disciplinary council this past Sunday morning from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where she was excommunicated. This episode was recorded the night before the excommunication.   Dr. Bagley is queer and is in a mixed-orientation marriage. She and her husband have been life long members of the church and have been devoted to their faith and faith community. Due to their decisions to find solutions to make their marriage sustainable and her strong advocacy as a mental health practitioner to support LGBTQ+ individuals in her community (she is t...

Natasha is joined by Jenny Elledge as they discuss current events at the intersection of religion, sexuality, and mental health.

For more on Symmetry Solutions, visit symmetrpath.com

For more on Jenny, visit: https://symmetrypath.com/jenny-elledge

Intro ("Fisher's Hornpipe") and outro by Otter Creek

Podcast edited by: Ashley Pacini

Have you ever thought about how you would react if your child came out as LGBTQ+?  Has this already happened? Do you have any regrets? Do you wonder if you were supportive enough?    Even though I am a certified sex therapist and a licensed family therapist, I faced some of the biases and mistakes I made when my kiddo came out. I am sitting down for a frank discussion with Rowan as they look back on the journey to allyship.    Rowan Helfer Parker (they/them) is a biology student at the University of Utah, with their studies focusing on ecology, evolu...