Amber Lavendel (she/her)

Unfortunately talking so openly about sex is often taboo or 'impolite' in our culture but I whole-heartedly disagree. Because of my comfort talking about sex many people tell me that I am the first person they have ever talked to about "this stuff". I am comfortable talking about the uncomfortable and encourage my clients to drop the censorship and shared their experience.

I am a community person at heart and deeply believe in the power of being in relation with others, especially at a time when we are all so isolated. I enjoy working within all relationship systems whether it be the relationship you have with your mom all the way to your relationship with 3 members of your polycule... maybe even how they are emotionally connected. I have training in couples and families therapy.

My own identities inform my work and as a result I place a high importance on being LGBTQIA+ affirming. I have experience working with folks from all different backgrounds while they explore, re-explore, and affirm how they show up in the world. Your sexuality or gender identity might not be the reason you’re seeking therapy, but it may be important to have a therapist who is LGBTQIA-affirming, standing with you in solidarity and community.

In sessions, I reflect on the impact of the systems we operate within. These can include the family, community, capitalism, and politics. Despite the harm these systems create I believe all people deserve to feel good and create pleasure in their lives. Although I utilize my training in evidence based treatments and I tend believe therapy is more of an art than a science.

In sessions, I often pull from my couples counseling training and utilize my creativity to change interventions to work for multi partnered relationships. I believe that relationships are at the center of our lives and we deserve to feel secure and affirmed in whatever relationship structure we choose. Although I utilize my training in evidence based treatments and I tend believe therapy is more of an art than a science.

When it comes to strictly sex therapy I take an intersectional lens that allows each client to define and redefine 'sex' in their lives. I understand this topic often comes with trauma, shame, and stigma and as a result allow clients to take the lead when exploring this path. Although I utilize my training in evidence based treatments and I tend believe therapy is more of an art than a science.