Surrogate partner therapy in session
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Somatica vs. Surrogate Partner Therapy: What’s the Difference?

With the rising interest in sex therapy, more people are exploring ways to deepen their intimacy, heal emotional wounds, and build healthier relationships. But as terms like “sex coach,” “sexologist,” and “surrogate partner therapy” become more widely used, it’s easy to get confused. While these roles can all be part of someone’s healing journey, they…

Surrogate partner touching client
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What Is A Surrogate Partner? 5 Common Myths, Debunked

Curiosity around surrogate partner therapy has grown rapidly in recent years. But with that interest comes confusion and a lot of misinformation. Despite decades of research and clinical history, surrogate partner work is often misunderstood or sensationalized. So, let’s set the record straight. Below are five of the most common myths about surrogate partners and…

Virgin Island participants Tom and Holly build confidence on a date

Building Confidence from the Inside Out – A Reflection from Virgin Island Ep. 3

There’s something deeply raw and beautiful about witnessing someone stand at the edge of their comfort zone — uncertain but willing. That’s exactly what we saw unfold in episode 3 of Virgin Island. It wasn’t just about flirting, first kisses, or cheeky challenges. It was about courage, vulnerability, and the quiet, powerful journey of building…

Two hands touching lightly, showcasing the power of touch
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The Power of Touch: Why It Matters More Than You Think

As the lead sexologists on Virgin Island, we’ve had the profound honor of guiding people who are taking their first real steps into the world of intimacy. What we saw again and again on the show (and what we witness every day in our practice at the Somatica Institute) is just how transformational the power…

Danielle Harel and Celeste Hirschman teach Virgin Island participant Emma about core desires
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What is Blocking Your Desire? Here’s How You Can Embrace It

Why do so many of us feel disconnected from desire, even when we deeply crave connection? In Episode 1 of the Virgin Island show on Channel 4, we took an exciting first step toward understanding desire. As each member of the group began to explore showing desire and uncovering their fantasies, blocks to desire started…

Virgin Island

Why We Said Yes to Virgin Island UK – From Celeste & Danielle

When British Channel 4 approached us to be the lead sexologists on Virgin Island UK, we knew instantly: this was the kind of invitation that mattered. We’re Celeste & Danielle, long-time sex and relationship coaches, Somatica Method co-creators, and fierce believers in the transformative power of intimacy. While we’ve supported countless individuals in private sessions,…

Woman whispering sex coaching myths into friend's ear
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The Truth About Common Sex and Relationship Coaching Myths

Think you know what happens in a sex and relationship coaching session? Think again! Some of the most prevalent assumptions — like “it’s only for couples in crisis,” or “you’ll be asked to do something embarrassing” — are flat-out wrong. After 15 years as a sex and relationship coach, I’ve heard it all: the hesitations,…

Man and Woman in hands-on couples coaching session

Why Hands-On Couples Coaching Is The Most Effective Technique

As seasoned sex & relationship coaches and creators of the experiential Somatica Method, Danielle and I found that hands-on coaching is the most effective way to work with couples. We’ve had the honor to help improve the lives of many couples over time – but it always amazes us how much improvement and transformation happens…

Couple caught in a relationship vortex

The Relationship Vortex And How to Overcome Repetitive Arguments

I have seen so many couples get caught up in a relationship vortex. 

A relationship vortex happens when your and your partner’s deepest emotional wounds are triggered simultaneously. This leads to a cycle of habitual and protective behaviors that undermine your connection and intimacy.

Unfortunately, this is a very common relationship dynamic – but it’s nothing you can’t tackle together! It’s entirely possible to unwind the vortex and even reverse it, ending up in a place of deep trust and intimacy. Wanna learn how? Read on. 

Couple on an intentional date

Dating With Intention in the Age of Swipe Fatigue

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the aimlessness of the modern dating landscape? Tired of endless swiping? Uninspired by the inane chats about meaningless topics that all too often dead end in ghosting? Unfulfilled by the dates that lack the kind of energy and connection that light you up? Then maybe it’s time to start dating with…

young woman wondering how to lose your virginity
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How to Lose Your Virginity: Advice for Your First Time

As a sex and relationship coach and expert on the phenomenon of virginity, I have helped many inexperienced clients clarify how, why, and when they want to lose their virginity. We are currently in a time when the concept of virginity is on the rise and there is a trend of people experiencing sex for…