Call Today! 646.580.8640|[email protected]

Sexuality and Psychology

How Partners Can Keep Connection Alive

When couples come into my office seeking to reconnect, they have often gone months or years drifting further and further apart. Unchecked, this process can leave them feeling like roommates living parallel lives, rather than engaged lovers. Under these circumstances, efforts to revive sparks often feel awkward, forced and unnatural. It’s hard to feel physically or emotionally close to someone with whom you have completely lost connection.

I think that time often plays an important role in these situations. The longer the relationship has drifted, the harder it is to get back on track. Take a look at my previous articles on this topic for greater depth. This particular article will focus more on preventative strategies to prevent relational drift, although these same behaviors can assist if the relationship has veered off course. Again, the further apart the partners have drifted and the more time that has elapsed, the harder it will feel to achieve actionable results. Patience and strong desire will be required for sustained improvement in these cases.

Fundamentally, one of the most important and powerful ways that we can show a strong interest in another person is to maintain our curiosity about that individual. Too often folks feel, after spending a number of years with a person, that they know everything there is to know, and they start to lose all sense of curiosity. But relationships are not stagnant. People never stay the same. Often one individual is experiencing a growth spurt, while the other may be in a holding pattern, never evolving much past the honeymoon phase. In these situations, the growing individual may seek […]

Radio Appearance on WBAI 99.5FM NYC

It was my pleasure to appear on the Positive Mind show on WBAI radio back in December to promote my book Modern Sexuality. The hosts, Kevin and Ben are very prepared and ask terrific questions, so we always end up having deep and meaningful discussions. This was my second time appearing– the first was back in June when we spent two hours discussing “alternative” sexualities (you can find those audio files by going to the Media page and scrolling down or clicking here for part 1 and here for part 2.

Anyway, this was such a phenomenal interview, with such breadth to the conversation, I thought blog readers would be interested in hearing the whole 1hr 20 segment. I’m including show notes below with timestamps so that you can go and skip ahead to any particular parts that you find most interesting. BTW, if you are interested in learning more about Modern Sexuality, which spent several months in the top 10 on Amazon in its category, you might also be interested in taking a look at this fantastic review in Playboy Magazine. Enjoy!

Listen to “Michael Aaron Appearance on WBAI Dec 13, 2016” on Spreaker.

Show Notes:

0:52– Society & media’s ambivalence about sex

5:30– What is modern sexuality?

6:40– Group formation & “deviance”

9:30– Role of shame in sexuality

10:55– My activism/2015 AASECT position statement on “non-normative” sexualities

17:45– Working with clients who practice some form of “non-normative” sexuality

18:45– Failure of conversion therapies

21:10– Research on etiology of homosexuality

24:58– How I help clients talk about sex

27:25– Why people stop having sex

29:00– What goes into “peak” sexual experiences

31:50– The “honeymoon” phase of relationships

36:05– Research on […]

Can Desire Be Rekindled?

One of the most common difficulties that bring couples into my practice is the extinguishment or disappearance of passion, lust, desire, or yes, even love itself. Often these couples have gone years (yes years) sinking ever further into a deeper rut of feeling like they are living with a platonic friend or roommate, but not a lover. They may have gone months or years without having sex. Indeed, research shows that about 1 in 7, or about 15% of long-term couples are sexless (meaning no sex in the last six months). When I ask these couples to describe their daily habits, they often describe lots of intimate behaviors such as holding hands, kissing, engaging in various activities together, and even sleeping together in the nude. But no sex. They describe loving each other, but not “being in love,” meaning no longer experiencing that lustful attraction that comes with passionate love.

In my experience, the success of turning things around and rekindling desire depends on a number of factors. First, how long has this relationship been passionless? The longer the couple has been alienated, the harder the task becomes. In addition, there are a number of contextual factors to consider. For example, how much resentment has piled up? Resentment, as I’ve written about before, is one of the most toxic and corrosive emotions within a relationship. It’s a combination of anger and entitlement, which leads to contempt. Indeed, contempt, along with criticism, defensiveness and stonewalling, is one of the four key factors that research has identified as predictive of negative outcomes in relationships. As a result, resentment […]

How I Help Partners Bridge Their Differences

Around 50% of my practice is working with couples (or other partnered systems), and I am often faced with the difficulty so many folks struggle with in understanding each other. Especially after our last election, I can’t help but see striking similarities between the ways that folks bunker down and become defensive and antagonistic in their relationship with the current state of affairs in our society post-election. Regardless of where someone stands politically (and in my clinical work, I try to stay out of politics), one thing is clear– if you find two folks who each voted for the two different candidates, you’ll find that they are living in two very different realities.

This is often the case, but on a more micro level, with the couples I see in my practice. Both individuals are so wrapped up in their own subjective reality, that they have no room left for understanding the subjective reality of their partner. As a result, their relationship is filled with frustrations, disappointments, and unnecessary conflicts over who is right or wrong. Instead of working together as allies, these folks are engaging in a battle over realities, sparring to see whose reality will come out on top and victorious. In the end, no one wins. A battle between realities is a zero sum game, in which one individual needs to win while the other loses. However, this only means that everyone loses, since a relationship filled with a ledger of wins and losses is a most unhappy relationship.

Some of the biggest signs of progress (and most rewarding times for me as a therapist) are when I finally start […]

Cultivating Gratitude as a Means of Healing

As we enter the holiday season, I experience an unmistakable pattern in my practice that usually becomes most prominent at this time of year when people start taking stock of the year and (on a larger scale) of their entire life. One of the most corrosive thought patterns and emotions that people fall into is remorse and regret about lost opportunities or poor decisions from the past. These feelings may have something to do with sex or not, but the common theme is one of loss, particularly the loss of youth. I mention youth because we are most likely to feel regretful when we feel we don’t have a second chance or do-over, and second chances are abundant in youth. Therefore, remorse and regret are often as much to do with the mourning of youth as it is with the concrete details of missed opportunities.

Everyone has regrets at times, but it becomes problematic when they become obsessive, devolving into unhelpful rumination, bitterness, possibly vindictiveness, and at worst, destructive “acting out” behaviors. In some ways, and counterintuitively, bitterness and disappointment can sometimes feel “addictive” in the sense that they can provide a sense of pleasure and power from being a martyr or victim. Yes, victimhood can be and sometimes is used as currency. (Note, I am not invalidating victimization, but simply stating that dwelling on such can provide secondary benefits for some people). And cultivating anger feels both more defensive and empowering than truly facing sadness and vulnerability.

When faced with such “existential challenges,” I find it helpful to envision the dual control model that I have discussed […]

Release of My New Book Modern Sexuality

It’s taken 3 long years and hours and hours of sometimes exhilarating, sometimes pain-staking work, but my book Modern Sexuality is set to be released on Oct 16. For my loyal blog readers, I’ve set up a number of ways to get this book for free, or at a deep discount, but only for a short period of time. You have a few options.

You have 3 ways of getting a major discount:

With each purchase of “Modern Sexuality” on Amazon (the hardcover edition, which retails for $36), you will get the entire price of the book taken off your purchase of AltSex NYC Conference 2017 tickets! Note: This deal only applies for book purchases made on Saturday October 15 or Sunday October 16. To get the discount, go to  http://amzn.to/2cGARqL to buy the book, and forward your receipt or a screenshot of your receipt showing your name, the book title, and the date of purchase to [email protected], and you will receive a $36 discount code that can be applied toward purchase of your ticket.  There is no limit on this discount, so you’ll get $36 off each AltSex ticket for each book purchased.
You can attend my Book Release on Tuesday November 15, where I present a 1.5 hr workshop based on “Modern Sexuality.” Everyone in attendance will receive a free signed copy of the book included with the ticket price ($40). So, you get a signed copy, admission to the talk, and CEUs—all for roughly the price of the book itself. We only have 20 tix available and some have already been sold, so purchase them sooner rather than later in order to not get shut out.
If you are not […]

  • Permalink Gallery

    Thoughts on Working With Adult Survivors of Childhood Sexual Trauma (CSA)

Thoughts on Working With Adult Survivors of Childhood Sexual Trauma (CSA)

I was recently interviewed by an Australian production company about my work with adult men that have been victims of childhood sexual abuse (CSA). The focus was on the research concerning this subject as well as how I specifically work as a clinician with men who present to me with these difficulties in my therapy office. For those who don’t know, I’ve written the definitive meta-analysis of sexual outcomes of adults who have experienced CSA, and my research won an award for original scholarship and was published in a peer-reviewed academic journal. You can access it here.

Anyway, the interviewer asked me a number of very poignant and powerful questions, and I thought this blog would be a good venue for discussing some of the most salient points that came out of the interview. Even though the interview focused on men, my thoughts in this article are applicable to all individuals. Once the interview is live, I will post it on my media page, so be sure and be on the look out for it and keep checking this site.

The foremost question that the interviewer wanted to know, and that is also on the forefront of a number of my clients’ minds is to what extent does CSA effect adult sexuality? This is a very complex question because it incorporates a number of contextual factors. According to both the research and my clinical experience, people experience trauma very differently and a lot of it depends on a complex mix of environmental and psychological factors. First, not everyone experiences trauma from a childhood abusive event. Indeed the following external criteria are […]

  • Permalink Gallery

    Why I Use a Harm Reduction Approach Instead of Sex Addiction

Why I Use a Harm Reduction Approach Instead of Sex Addiction

Over the years, I’ve worked with a number of individuals who have presented with out of control or compulsive sexual behaviors. In the past, these folks may have been designated as “sex addicts,” but the field is currently in transition and moving away from this perspective. A number of other models have sprung forth to fill in the void, and I have written about some of them previously. In this article, I will focus on what I feel is the most fundamental shift in the discussion around this issue, which is a move from abstinence only (the addiction model) to harm reduction.

Harm reduction? What is that? In essence, harm reduction is nothing new; it has been a staple of public policy and social programs for years. Indeed, I got my start in the field as a harm reduction outreach worker, going to local parks and other hangouts in and around NYC, exchanging clean needles for dirty ones with intravenous (IV) drug users or providing condoms and other necessities to transgender street sex workers. There are a number of harm reduction centers in many large urban areas around the country, funded both by charities and grants, as overwhelming evidence supports the efficacy of this kind of approach. It is only recently though that harm reduction has entered the psychotherapy office as a foundation for understanding human growth and psychological change. Indeed, I am proud to be at the forefront of this movement, hosting workshops on integrating harm reduction with sex therapy and speaking at major conferences on this issue.

At its root, harm reduction is both humanistic and culturally libertarian. No, […]

Working with Relationships in Transition

One of the key topics that I cover in my Common Issues in Partners’ Sex Therapy class is how to work with those relationships that are undergoing some sort of a transition. What I mean by  a “transition” in this case, especially when it comes to sex therapy, is some new item of information that is introduced into the relationship which also serves to destabilize that relationship.

What are some examples of this kind of destabilizing information? Here are some common ones– one partner introduces a desire for a specific kind of sex (or fetish) that is found to be repulsive or offensive to the other partner; one partner shares a desire to open up the relationship and explore some form on non-monogamy; or, and this was more common in the past, but still happens frequently enough, one partner shares information about his or her orientation or preferred gender that is at odds with the other partner’s prior knowledge or understanding. Regarding the last item, these types of relationships are called “mixed orientation” relationships. In the recent past, with a lessening of homophobia in general society, this kind of disclosing was likely to be of a man opening up to be homosexual. These days, my observation is that, while that still does happen, mixed orientation couples tend to be more of a hetero/bi dynamic. But I digress.

Let’s now talk about some specifics of how I work with relationships that find themselves in transition. The first and most important step (as is the case in any type of psychotherapy) is to create a safe space for both […]

Common Issues In Partners’ Sex Therapy

I am teaching a course this summer entitled “Common Issues in Partners’ Sex Therapy,” and as I’m in the midst of creating the outline and curriculum, I thought it appropriate to go through my old catalogue of articles and see what I’ve already written that provides further resources to the material I plan on covering.  I’ve divided the class into six sections– 1) General considerations; 2) Communication issues; 3) Infidelity/sexual compulsivity; 4) Desire discrepancy; 5) Relationships in transition; and 6) Alternative relationships. I’ll go through each of these in turn.

Let’s start with “General considerations.” Typically when I work with a relational system, I want to get a sense of where each individual is developmentally. Are these folks in they honeymoon stage? Are they trying to differentiate from one another? Are they in different head spaces (one is trying to assert independence while the other is trying to maintain the status quo)? Are there any personality disorders that are preventing this relationship from moving forward? Here are some articles I’ve written in the past that provide further detail on these subjects:

The Connection Between Attachment and Sexuality
Couples Therapy: What is Differentiation?
Why The Beginning of a Relationship Determines It’s Success
Borderline Personality and Sexuality
Narcissism and Sexuality
Boundaries: The Most Important Part of a Relationship

Moving on now to “Communication issues,” my work as a therapist requires me to dissect the communication difficulties that relationship systems struggle with and then model new, more productive forms of relating. I am informed by numerous thinkers in this area including John Gottman and Daniel Wile and here are some articles that highlight some of these […]

Web Design MymensinghPremium WordPress ThemesWeb Development

Prevention: Is Sex Addiction Real?

Great article in Prevention Magazine about the sex addiction controversy. Check out what I had to say. https://www.prevention.com/sex/a21969931/sex-addiction-signs/

Romper: Emotional Infidelity

Romper approached me again for another quote, this time about emotional infidelity. https://www.romper.com/p/if-your-partner-has-done-these-7-things-they-might-have-committed-emotional-infidelity-12803527

Fatherly: BDSM More Common Than You Think

Interesting piece in Fatherly about BDSM in which I was interviewed. https://www.fatherly.com/love-money/bdsm-kinky-sex-not-uncommon/

E! Online: Marrying a Murderer

E! News picked up my an interview I did with Vice a few years ago about hybristophilia, which is the attraction to criminals. Very interesting story. https://www.eonline.com/news/979800/marrying-a-murderer-the-women-who-fall-in-love-with-men-behind-bars

Who Magazine: What is Bisexuality?

Who is Australia's version of People Magazine. They wanted to know what bisexuality is and I provided some insight. https://www.who.com.au/what-is-bisexual

CNN: Why Men May Exaggerate Their Sex Numbers

Seems like something doesn't add up on sex surveys-- are men exaggerating their number of partners? Check out what I tell CNN. https://www.cnn.com/2018/09/06/health/number-of-sex-partners-kerner/index.html

Women’s Health: 10 Kinky Sex Ideas

Women's Health asked me for some kinky ideas to spice up one's sex life. https://www.womenshealthmag.com/sex-and-love/a22863334/kinky-sex-ideas/

Romper: 5 Easy Postpartum Sex Positions

NY Post: How Tattoos Can Sabotage Your Love Life

I was interviewed by the NY Post about all the ways in which I've seen bad tattoos sabotage relationships. https://nypost.com/2018/04/25/how-tattoos-can-sabotage-your-love-life/

Allure: 8 BDSM Sex Tips to Try If You’re a Total Beginner

Allure Magazine asked me about tips for BDSM beginners. https://www.allure.com/story/bondage-sex-tips-for-bdsm-beginners

Romper: 7 Mental Health Benefits Of Orgasms, As If You Need An Excuse

Salon.com: On Pornhub you can search anything: Politicians, pop stars, even fidget spinners

I answer questions from Salon.com about the infamous porn site PornHub. www.salon.com/2018/01/20/on-pornhub-you-can-search-anything-politicians-pop-stars-even-fidget-spinners/

NY Post: Why having sex when you’re tired can ruin your relationship

I tell NY Post that it's not a good idea to keep trying to have sex when you are exhausted. https://nypost.com/2017/12/27/why-having-sex-when-youre-tired-can-ruin-your-relationship/

Women’s Health: Can You Really Be Addicted To Sex? Here’s Everything You Should Know

I explained to Women's Health my position on why sex addiction is not the most accurate label to describe sexually compulsive behavior. https://www.womenshealthmag.com/sex-and-love/what-is-sex-addiction  

Cosmopolitan: 7 Signs You Might Be Hard-Wired for Monogamy

I tell Cosmo about the personality traits of monogamous individuals. http://www.cosmopolitan.com/sex-love/a12454448/signs-you-need-monogamy/

Refinery29: So You’ve Been Faking Orgasms — & Now You Want To Stop

I explain to Refinery29 why it's so important to not fake orgasms in a relationship. http://www.refinery29.com/stop-faking-orgasms-during-sex-advice

Women’s Health: Exactly How To Ask If The Person You’re Dating Is Sleeping With Other People

Interesting piece in Women's Health where I am interviewed on how to ask someone your dating about their own dating habits. https://www.womenshealthmag.com/relationships/is-he-seeing-other-people

Refinery29: After Being Friends With Benefits, Can You Ever Go Back To Just Friends?

I am interviewed by Refinery29 about "Friends with Benefits" relationships. http://www.refinery29.com/sex-buddy-friend-with-benefits-break-up

CNN: What counts as ‘cheating’ in the digital age?

I discuss the difference between privacy and secrecy in this CNN piece on infidelity. http://www.cnn.com/2017/05/16/health/cheating-internet-sex-kerner/

Men’s Fitness: 5 ways porn can affect your relationship

I am interviewed in this fairly nuanced piece on the pros and cons of porn. http://www.mensfitness.com/women/sex-tips/5-ways-porn-can-affect-your-relationship

Fatherly: 6 Quiet Sex Positions That Won’t Wake The Kids

I provide tips to new fathers on how they can keep the sex going even when they need to keep quiet. https://www.fatherly.com/love-and-money/sex-and-intimacy/6-quiet-sex-positions/

Headspace: How To Get Out of Your Head to Enjoy Sex More

I am interviewed by Headspace, one of the best meditation and mindfulness apps available, on how to become more present. https://www.headspace.com/blog/2017/05/26/enjoy-sex-more/

Business Insider: How Often Do Happy Couples Have Sex?

I am interviewed in this intriguing Business Insider article on how often happy couples have sex. http://www.businessinsider.com/how-much-happy-couples-have-sex-relationship-2017-5

Huffington Post: Why You Need to Remove ‘Sex Addiction’ From Your Vocabulary

The Huffington Post in South Africa profiles my work around challenging sex addiction (including my red/yellow/green menu exercise) . http://www.huffingtonpost.co.za/marlene-wasserman/lets-replace-sex-addiction-with-out-of-control-behaviour_a_22074923/

Women’s Health: 5 Sex Positions To Try If You Are Bored

I provide some "technical" advice in this Women's Health piece. http://www.womenshealthmag.com/sex-and-love/tabletop-sex-positions

Refinery 29: What To Do If You Get a Panic Attack During Sex

I provide some tips for people struggling with panic attacks. http://www.refinery29.com/panic-attacks-during-sex-tips

VICE: Differences Between Men’s and Women’s Sex Toys

Women’s Health: How Can I Tell If I’m a Squirter?

I am interviewed by Women's Health about squirting and what it is. http://www.womenshealthmag.com/sex-and-love/how-to-tell-if-you-can-squirt

Refinery 29: Turned on by Blood

I am asked by Refinery 29 to comment on why people may be aroused by blood. http://www.refinery29.com/blood-play-sexual-fetish-tips

Refinery 29: Piercing Fetish

I am featured in this very intriguing article on fetishes related to piercing and "needle play." http://www.refinery29.com/genital-piercing-sexual-fetish

The Tab: What Happens When Your Boyfriend Leaves You For Another Man?

I give some insight into this interesting topic. https://thetab.com/us/2017/03/22/happens-boyfriend-leaves-another-man-63306

Independent (UK): What the Future of Porn Looks Like For Women

I am featured in this outstanding article in UK's Independent on women and virtual reality porn. I thought this was a fairly sharp and nuanced piece. http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/love-sex/porn-future-sex-dolls-vr-adult-films-women-actresses-virtual-reality-a7640071.html

VICE: Uptick in Dominatrix and Porn Use Since Trump

Recent reports have indicated that there has been an uptick in demand for dominatrixes since Trump took office. I give my insight on this topic to Vice.com https://www.vice.com/en_us/article/vvjew4/dominatrixes-and-porn-sites-report-a-huge-bdsm-uptick-since-trump-became-president

Redbook: What To Do If Your Husband Wants a Threesome

I give Redbook some pointers on having a 3some for the first time. http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/sex/news/a46151/how-to-have-a-threesome/

Maxim: Why Some Women are Turned On By Looking at Themselves

Playboy Compares 50 Shades with My Research

Playboy sent a journalist to watch Fifty Shades Darker, and then compared the movie with the results from my recent groundbreaking research on BDSM. Great article, enjoy! http://www.playboy.com/articles/fifty-shades-darker-review

Refinery 29: Autosexuality

I was interviewed in Refinery29 about autosexuality, a little known and poorly understood sexual orientation. http://www.refinery29.com/2017/02/141054/turn-yourself-on-mirror-sex

The Independent (UK) Feature on My Book Modern Sexuality

The Independent, one of the UK's biggest magazine ran an entire feature profiling my new book Modern Sexuality, in light of new proposed UK laws on porn and sexuality. Great analysis, definitely check this article out. http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/love-sex/sex-kink-shaming-porn-preferences-society-not-as-sexually-liberated-as-it-thinks-a7579496.html

CNN: Is Fifty Shades a Boon or Bust for Kink?

I was interviewed for this CNN article, exploring the impact of the Fifty Shades trilogy on contemporary sexual life. http://www.cnn.com/2017/02/10/health/fifty-shades-kink-sex-kerner/

New York Magazine: Should Shame Be Used to Treat Sexual Compulsions?

I am featured in this terrific New York Magazine article, discussing some of the finer points brought up in the earlier article in SELF magazine (see listing below). http://nymag.com/scienceofus/2017/01/should-shame-be-used-to-treat-sexual-compulsions.html

Self: How to Treat Sex Addiction When You Don’t Think It Exists

I am featured in this terrific article in SELF magazine on the nuances of the sex addiction debate. http://www.self.com/story/sex-addiction-treatment-therapy

Refinery29: 10 Ways to Tell Your Partner About Your Kink

I appear in this very informative article on revealing sexual desires to one's partner. http://www.refinery29.com/kinky-sex-how-to-talk-about-fetishes#slide

Complex: Is Unsafe Sex the Latest Kink

Complex asked me to weigh in on this provocative topic. http://www.complex.com/life/2017/01/putting-yourself-at-risk-for-stds

Vice: The Cost of Losing Your Virginity Late

I appear in Vice.com, discussing an important but poorly understand subject. https://www.vice.com/en_us/article/the-cost-of-losing-your-virginity-late

Cosmopolitan: Why I Slept With a Married Man

I was asked by Cosmo to comment on this provocative subject. http://www.cosmopolitan.com/sex-love/a8524853/cheating-with-married-men/

Men’s Fitness: January ‘Sex Files’ Q&A

Check out my responses in my sex column 'Sex Files' in the Jan issue of Men's Fitness magazine.

CNN: Is Sex Addiction Real?

I'm interviewed, along with a number of my colleagues, in this great CNN article on a controversial topic. http://www.cnn.com/2016/12/14/health/sex-addiction-real-or-not-kerner/

Thrillist: Signs He’s Undateable

I weigh in in this great advice column in Thrillist by Elle Stanger. https://www.thrillist.com/sex-dating/nation/relationship-advice-from-a-stripper

Men’s Fitness: November ‘Sex Files’ Q&A

Check out my answers in my Men's Fitness column 'Sex Files' in the Nov 2016 issue.    

Future of Sex Podcast: Exploring Sexual Fluidity

Great episode, check it out. https://soundcloud.com/futureofsex/04-exploring-sexual-fluidity-bicuriousity-for-women-featuring-skirt-club-and-dr-michael-aaron

Broadly: ‘Sleep Incompatible’ Couples

I give couples advice on how to deal with differences in preferred sleeping arrangements. https://broadly.vice.com/en_us/article/when-the-sex-is-great-but-you-suck-at-sleeping-next-to-each-other

Self Magazine: 9 Things Everyone Gets Wrong About BDSM

I debunk myths about BDSM in this SELF magazine article. http://www.self.com/story/bdsm-facts

Alternet: What Makes People Kinky?

Alternet does a great job of reviewing my book. Check out the link below. http://www.alternet.org/sex-amp-relationships/what-makes-people-kinky

Nothing Off Limits Podcast

In this episode, we talk about the societal myths of sexuality, including:
  1.  the false belief that sexuality is learned and can be changed,
  2.  that non-normative sexual behavior is pathological,
  3. that healthy sexuality involves intimacy,
  4. that intimacy is easily defined and mean the same to everyone, and
  5. that sexual behavior must have a clearly defined purpose.
We also discuss:
  • harm reduction
  • epigenetics
  • BDSM
  • fetishes
  • partialisms
  • polyamory
  • the darker aspects of psychotherapy when it comes to homosexuality
  • Dr. Aaron’s opinion on the book and movie ’50 Shades of Grey’
  • mismatched desire in couples…and a lot more.
Check it out by clicking the link below! http://ladyfoxentertainment.com/2016/11/06/dr-michael-aaron-on-his-book-modern-sexuality-the-truth-about-sex-and-relationships/

Alternet: Why We’re Still Hot for Erotic Literature

I weigh in on why people still enjoy erotic literature. Click the link below. http://www.alternet.org/sex-amp-relationships/porn-paper-why-were-still-hot-erotic-literature

Playboy Reviews My Book Modern Sexuality

What a great review! Playboy says Modern Sexuality is incredible! Click the link to check out the review. http://www.playboy.com/articles/in-2016-kinky-sex-is-the-new-norm

Mike E & Emma Australian Radio Show

I was asked to appear on Australian radio. It was a very fun segment, will post the link when I have it!

Cosmopolitan: Meet the Guys Obsessed with the Smell of Vagina

I was asked by Cosmo why some men may love the smell of vagina. It's kind of an off-the-wall topic, but apparently many people are interested in learning about this! http://www.cosmopolitan.com/sex-love/a5235300/guys-who-love-the-smell-vagina/

Stereo-Typed Podcast: Dancing With Your Shadow

I appear on the Stereo-Typed podcast to discuss my new book, fantasies, and our shadow self. Click the audio player below and enjoy! https://www.spreaker.com/user/crazyheart/stereo-typed-8-dancing-with-your-shadow

The Boom Doctors Podcast

I appear on the Boom Doctors Podcast to discuss my new book Modern Sexuality and my work as a sex therapist. Clink the link below to listen in. http://theboomdoctors.com/2016/09/21/ep-132-michael-aaron-on-his-work-as-a-sex-therapist-his-new-book-modern-sexuality/

Nylon: The Porn You Watch Does Not Define You

I was asked by Nylon Magazine to weigh in on the subject of porn and what it means about the individual consumer. Pretty good non-pathologizing piece, check it out here: http://www.nylon.com/articles/porn-habits-relationship

Vocativ: Is VR Porn the Future of Sex Therapy?

I was interviewed by Vocativ about a new virtual reality series entitled "Virtual Sexology," designed to provide breathing and relaxation exercises in a virtual reality format to help individuals improve sexual functioning. Will something like this prove effective? The jury is out, but check out what I had to say... http://www.vocativ.com/347885/badoink-vr-sex-therapy/

Fusion Network: What is ‘Healthy’ When It Comes to Porn

I appeared on the nationally broadcasted Fusion Network Hotline show to discuss the GOP platform of porn as a "public health crisis." As part of the discussion I debate Dr. Neil Malamuth on porn and sexual violence. I thought this was a very thorough and productive half hour, which you can watch below:

Broadly– Fatal Attraction: The Women Who Love Serial Killers

In this "edgy" and "piercing" piece,  I was asked by Broadly about why certain people might attracted to the allure of dangerous individuals. The article covers a lot of ground, including harm reduction strategies, so definitely take a moment to check it out: https://broadly.vice.com/en_us/article/hybristophilia-fatal-attraction-the-women-who-love-serial-killers

Vocativ: Best Mattresses for “Sex-Having”

I guess this must be a serious issue, as Vocativ tends to focus on reporting on trending topics. At any rate, people seem to really want to know what is the best kind of mattress for having sex, so naturally Vocativ got in touch with me to find out. Take a look: http://www.vocativ.com/339728/hey-sex-havers-heres-how-you-should-choose-your-next-mattress/

Huffington Post: 7 Ways to Save Your Sexless Marriage

In this Huffington Post article, I advise couples to use sex menus to spice things up. Check out all the details in the link below. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/how-to-save-your-sexless-marriage-according-to-sex-therapists_us_57740608e4b0cc0fa1362d64

WBAI 99.5FM NYC Radio interview part 2

In the second episode we focus solely on clinical issues, including how I work with issues around desire discrepancy. I cover a lot of substantive and actionable material here, much of which I also include in my upcoming book.
Enjoy!

WBAI 99.5FM NYC Radio interview part 1

I recently appeared on WBAI 99.5FM NYC radio. We had so much material, we stretched it into 2 hours spanning 2 separate shows.
In this first episode we focus on sexological issues, including sex addiction and then the last 40 min or so were almost completely focused on transgender issues. We also get into some other topics such as newly formed identities such as "otherkin" and the "transabled" and I took some calls from some trans folks. It was a blast.

French TV Canal +: Financial Domination

I appeared on French national tv channel Canal + on the Emission Antoine tv show, discussing the psychology behind financial domination. I will post a video clip of the interview shortly.

Alternet: Why Trans Porn is Hugely Popular Among Hetero Men

Many people have been wondering about this subject and I weigh in with all the details in this Alternet article on why trans porn is so damn popular with straight guys. http://www.alternet.org/sex-amp-relationships/why-trans-porn-hugely-popular-among-hetero-men . I also provide some resources and citations to get the conversation started on this compelling topic.
From the article: "Aaron introduced us to the concept of 'queer heterosexuality,' or more fluid and non-binary expression of heterosexual identity. Some hope opening up the discussion will 'begin to give voice and legitimacy to the queerness that exists within the straight male world,' as one study puts it."

Women’s Health: 5 Ways to Make Sex With Condoms Feel So Much Better

I was recently interviewed in Women's Health Magazine on different strategies to make sex with condoms feel better. The title is pretty self explanatory. Check it out! http://www.womenshealthmag.com/sex-and-love/condom-sex-tips

Huffington Post: Love + Sex Podcast

I was interviewed on Huffington Post's Love + Sex Podcast, which I'm told is the most downloaded sex and relationship podcast on iTunes. In this episode, I dispel the wild myths about "sex roulette" parties. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/sex-roulette-parties-podcast_us_57504bbae4b0ed593f136ca0

Nylon: 10 Things We Learned at an Alt Sex Conference

Check out this very "edgy" writeup of the AltSex NYC Conference from last April by Nylon Magazine. Sample quote: "Not only did Aaron put forth that it’s okay and healthy to enjoy edge play, but he spoke of it’s healing potential, sharing that some sexual assault survivors he has worked with found healing and enjoyment through rape fantasies with someone they trust. It’s an extremely delicate and tricky subject, as a sexual assault survivor myself, while totally supportive of rape fantasy roleplaying, such activities have to absolutely be done with someone you trust and can run a risk of re-traumatizing, a risk Aaron fully acknowledged." http://www.nylon.com/articles/things-we-learned-at-alt-sex-conference#page-1

The Sexual Reawakening Summit

I was interviewed for an upcoming online sexuality discussion series, the Sexual Reawakening Summit. It features many top sex therapists from around the country and you can access it by using this link: http://sexualreawakening.org/michael/

Men’s Fitness: April “Sex Files” Q&A Column

In the April edition of my Men's Fitness 'Sex Files' Q&A column, I answer questions about anal sex and porn. Hurry and pick up a copy before it's off the stands! April Sex Files

Women’s Health: 5 Sex Moves That Flow Seamlessly into New Positions

I was asked by Women's Health Magazine to provide some advise on how to incorporate some new positions to spice up one's sex life. With a bunch of pictures and diagrams, I'm sure you'll find something that will intrigue you. http://www.womenshealthmag.com/sex-and-love/sex-positions-that-transition-easily  

AlterNet: A Surprising Number of Men are Renting Digital Girlfriends

I weigh in on this piece on Alternet about technology and the future of relationships. It's a good read overall, and here's a choice quote from me that may peak your interest: Psychotherapist Aaron says, “A lot of men may feel ashamed or embarrassed or uncomfortable talking about or revealing certain sexual fantasies that they have with a partner. For a lot of men, porn is a private way to explore their own sexuality. It’s nonjudgmental, and it’s not shaming. I think that’s a big draw.” According to Aaron, landing a virtual girlfriend provides the same kind of appeal. http://www.alternet.org/sex-amp-relationships/future-online-dating-just-dating-virtually

New York Magazine Covers the 1st Annual Alt Sex NYC Conference

New York Magazine sent a reporter to attend the conference I created and co-produced, the 1st Annual Alt Sex NYC Conference, and came away with three key things they learned from the event. Enjoy! http://nymag.com/scienceofus/2016/04/3-insights-about-kinky-and-nonmonogamous-sex.html

Yahoo News picks up Reuters article on Sexual Perfectionism

Looks like Yahoo News picked up the Reuters article on women's fears that their partners expect sexual perfectionism. Check it out. https://www.yahoo.com/news/sex-no-fun-think-partner-perfectionist-215424209.html

Reuters: Sex is No Fun When You Think You’re Partner is a Perfectionist

My latest interview with Reuters, this time about social pressure on women to be perfect sexually. "Our society is filled with sexual myths and misconceptions, mostly stemming from a combination of our culture's puritanical roots, as well as rampant consumerism, which feeds off individual insecurities to sell unnecessary products," Aaron said. http://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-sexuality-perfectionism-idUSKCN0XA2LU

NY Post Picks Up Reuters Article About Kinky Sex

Remember that Reuters article about kinky sex (see below)? Looks like the NY Post is also covering it as well. Check it out: http://nypost.com/2016/03/18/lots-of-people-like-the-kinky-sex-psychologists-call-abnormal/

Reuters: Lots of People Like Kinky Sex Psychologists Call Abnormal

I was asked by news agency Reuters to weigh in on a recent Canadian study of 1000 inhabitants of Quebec, in which nearly half of respondents stated that they enjoyed some form of kinky sex. I pulled no punches with my comments, found towards the end of the piece. Enjoy! The original academic journal article can be found here: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00224499.2016.1139034. The news article can be seen here: http://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-sex-norms-idUSKCN0WK2HZ

Sex with Timaree Podcast: Discussing the 1st Annual AltSex NYC Conference

Want to know more about what the AltSex NYC Conference is all about? I appear with my co-organizer, Dulcinea Pitagora, on the Sex with Timaree show, a popular podcast, to discuss numerous things including how the conference was created and what attendees can expect. Click on the link below to check it out: https://sexwithtimareepodcast.wordpress.com/2016/02/29/ep236-the-upcoming-alt-sex-nyc-conference-sex-with-timaree-altsexnyc-2/

Prevention Magazine: 9 Sex Secrets Every Sex Therapist Knows (And You Should, Too)

I was featured in this very eye-catching article in Prevention Magazine. Typical relationship stuff. You gotta spice it up, keep things interesting, schedule dates, etc. Some interesting tidbits, but overall, it's worth checking out. http://www.prevention.com/sex/advice-and-secrets-from-sex-therapists

“The Sex Files”: My New Monthly Q&A Column in Men’s Fitness Magazine

Head out to the newsstands and grab a copy of the Jan 2016 issue of Men's Fitness Magazine to see the premier of the new monthly "Sex Files" column in which I answer readers' sex questions. In this month's issue I answer a question in which a guy is looking to help his girlfriend enjoy more pleasure when she is having sex on top. Check out the screenshot below to see my response: AskSexJan-Feb

CNN: What It Means to Be Pansexual

I was asked by CNN to weigh in on what it means to be "pansexual." Here's an excerpt from my interview:

"It is a broad word, and that is because people want to have the freedom to self-identify any way they want without being labeled by anyone else," said psychotherapist and sex therapist Michael Aaron.

"It has cultural resonance because it is so broad and allows for so much flexibility and choice."

For the entire story click here: http://www.cnn.com/2015/11/09/living/pansexual-feat/

Love&- 5 Things Wives Want Their Husbands to Know about Sex

Love& is a new magazine about relationships and sex. They interviewed me about common things that women may want their guys to improve upon in the bedroom. One of the big ones is touch, as a lot of men are way too rough and don't know how to adjust their touch to what their partner wants. For more on this, and other pointers, check out the article itself below: http://loveand.com/sex/5-things-wives-want-their-husbands-to-know-about-sex/

Thrillist: 5 “Terrifying” Sexual Disorders You Didn’t Know Existed

Despite the alarming headline, I was asked by lifestyle website the Thrillist to discuss a bunch of sexual issues that folks out there may encounter, such as Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder (PGAD), sexsomnia and phimosis (when the foreskin does not fully retract and may cause pain). Much of what I said was cut out (as sometimes happens) but I get in a few good points on phimosis at the tail end. Phimosis is an issue I've encountered frequently enough with my male clients, so it's definitely worth a read. https://www.thrillist.com/sex-dating/nation/5-terrifying-sexual-disorders-you-didnt-know-existed

Vice.com: Cash Slaves

I am featured in the newly released Vice documentary, "Cash Slaves." This is a very edgy and provocative look at the underground world of Financial Domination (Findom). As usual, I wanted to provide a fair and balanced portrait of the subject matter and make sure that the material was not pathologized. Findom is regarded by many to be an extreme fetish and definitely touches upon some very gray areas. Take a look at the video below and you can come to your own conclusions!  

Men’s Fitness Magazine Advisory Board

I have recently been chosen to be on the Advisory Board of Men's Fitness Magazine. As part of that, I will be popping in now and then to answer reader questions. It's possible my role will expand in the future, and there have been discussions to that effect, but for the meantime, I will keep everyone posted when they can pick up an issue to see my responses in print.

Wall St Journal: The Future of Virtual Reality Porn

Market analysts predict that new virtual reality technology will revolutionize the way we experience media, and will specifically boost the porn industry to unprecedented levels. This detailed article covers a lot of ground, addressing both the technology, business and social ramifications of virtual reality porn. I was asked to give my take on the issue and somehow a 20 minute phone conversation was distilled to a brief paragraph at the end of the piece, but nonetheless, it is still a worthwhile read. http://www.marketwatch.com/story/how-the-future-of-virtual-reality-depends-on-porn-2015-07-15?

NY Times: Women of the World

Does Bill Cosby have a fetish for unconscious women? Who knows? He's not a client and I've never met him, so I cannot say for sure, but this provocative piece in the NY Times tries to get to the bottom of his alleged bizarre behavior. The reporter did a great job dealing with some uncomfortable material,  so be sure to click the link below to see what I had to say on this issue: http://nytlive.nytimes.com/womenintheworld/2015/07/10/why-did-bill-cosby-want-to-have-sex-with-comatose-women/

Men’s Fitness- July 2015

I was recently asked by a reporter from Men's Fitness magazine to discuss reasons why a heterosexual man might refrain from having sex with a willing woman. The questions were basically soft balls, seemingly aimed at a younger, more inexperienced, male audience, but hey, I managed to drop a few decent pointers, relating to finding out if the woman is in a relationship, and if so, what kind of relationship she is in before diving in. If you want to take a look and poke around more, you can go directly to the article below. You are going to have to click to page 3 to see my quotes, btw. http://www.mensfitness.com/women/dating-advice/5-reasons-you-shouldnt-have-sex-her/slide/2

Huffington Post: Most Common Sex Problems

I was recently interviewed for a piece in the Huffington Post about common sex problems. Entitled "The Most Common Problems People Have in Bed, According to Sex Experts", the article interviews a number of sex therapists about the most common cases they see in their practice. I indicated that lack of sexual desire rated pretty high, and they kind of bunched it up under the the umbrella of "mismatched sexual desires", which when it comes to couples is definitely fair enough. Solid piece all around, and written by a gifted writer who has a number of other interesting articles on the site. Definitely check it out: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/11/03/common-sex-problems-experts_n_5978560.html?1415023230

Men’s Health- Building the Perfect Sex Machine

I was recently interviewed for a Men's Health article on sex toys designed for men. They wanted to know my take on these "robotic masturbators" (as they called them) and as always, I tried to take a fair and balanced view of things. I pointed out that they could be used as a way to get better acquainted with one's sexuality (as well as get some much needed relief), but an over-reliance on technology may also limit guys from developing the necessary skills that would help them form romantic relationships. At any rate, hurry on over to the article here-- Building the Perfect Sex Machine-- and you can form your own conclusions and decide for yourself.

Upscale Magazine- May 2014 Issue

Go check out a great, and I mean GREAT, absolutely fascinating article in the May issue of Upscale Magazine, entitled "Secret Lovers," in which I am interviewed regarding the hush hush world of the swinger subculture.  The writer does a really good job of trying to understand the psychology of folks who practice consensual non-monogamy and I think the piece is very even-handed, with some practical tips for couples who are curious about dipping their toes in the lifestyle. I'll leave you with a quote from one of the swingers profiled in the piece, which I think gives a good feel for the tone and depth of the article-- "I love to see her with two guys and two girls at once. I enjoy submissive women, and there is no sexier submission than to watch my wife please me by pleasing others."  If that sounds interesting, then I suggest you head out and grab a copy. It's well worth the read.

Cosmo- April 2014

I am featured in the Sex Q&A section of Cosmo's April 2014 issue, in which I get asked about BJs, Plan B, sex in hot tubs, and all kinds of other tittilating reader questions. They did a good job of adding all kinds of humor, including a silly picture of tea bags-- need I say more? It's a can't- miss hoot. Go and check it out at news stands now!

Sex For Smart People Podcast

I just recently did an interview for a cool podcast called Sex For Smart People. Here is their description of the show: Sex therapist/psychoanalyst Dr. Michael Aaron is our guest of honor this time. Hear his and our perspectives on things like: What to do when you feel less ravenous about sex than your partner feels? Is it really honestly possible to feel coziness/familiarity and also sexiness/mystery/excitement in a long term partnership? How do you begin to talk to your partner about your interest in power play? (Trigger warning, around the half hour mark, we talk explicitly about rape fantasies.) And did you know that *just this past year*, kinky behavior was officially de-pathologized in clinical psychology terms (we think it is about f*****g time)? Plus, Dave is super silly and time)? Plus, Dave is super silly and loopy on NyQuil, and he and Stephanie share their favorite pick-up lines. [audio mp3="https://www.drmichaelaaronnyc.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Episode-7-Relationships-Are-Something-You-Do-Not-Something-You-Have.mp3"][/audio]