SPECIALTY AREAS: SEXUALITY
Sexuality.
As people, we are sexual beings. And as people who are able to explore and express
ourselves in a multitude of ways physically and psychologically, our sexuality is something we
explore.
For some, issues around sex and sexuality unfold within each life stage. Many deal with
issues around sexuality without even realizing they are doing so. When an individual is in an
environment where they feels safe to explore sex and their sexuality, they grow to become
comfortable with themselves and their experiences surrounding sex. And when sex and one's
sexuality is an integrated part of life, individuals are able to know themselves more fully and
live life more completely.
For others, issues surrounding sex and their sexuality are more complex. Living in a world
preoccupied with ideas about sex and one's sexuality that is termed "right" and "wrong",
"acceptable" and "unacceptable" can be damaging. A world biased toward heterosexuality
rather than one that embraces the benefits and joys of a multifaceted and multidimensional
perspective related to sexual identity can squash a natural tendency toward exploration.
Feelings of isolation, invalidation, shame, disappointment, guilt, and frustration can suppress
healthy expression. Fear of judgement and retaliation within a world punctuated with
prejudices can stifle and repress. Regimented gender constraints, or ideas about how men
and women should be or act, further compound these issues.
When these factors leave individuals feeling afraid to talk about their true feelings and desires
related to sex and their sexuality, a dangerous disconnect between one's sex and sexuality
and their true self is created. And disconnects within ourselves are not healthy. It is therefore
imperative for people to be able to share their honest feelings, thoughts, behaviors with
someone who is aware of the context within which their exploration of themselves exists. A
sense of personal pride and self-acceptance related to one's sex and sexuality can be
extremely valuable.
Our sexuality is a part of our lives that adds to our uniqueness. We can all live richer lives
when we incorporate an explored sexuality into our everyday lives.
DR. ART BOWLER
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138 W. 25th Street #618
(Bet. 6th & 7th) NYC, NY 10001
(646) 823-5080
DrArt@DrArtBowler.com
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NYC PSYCHOLOGIST