About Emily Fitzpatrick, MSW, LCSW, CHST
Online Sex Therapy Across Colorado
Hi! I’m Emily
(she/her)
Sex is all around us, yet no one is really talking about it. Ironically, by some magical default, we’re supposed to be really good at knowing our desires and have mind-blowing sexual experiences. The taboo nature sadly limits the depth with which we understand human sexuality. It’s this lack of understanding (which is not your fault) that tends to leave us with insecurities and grasping for what’s “normal.” Also, let’s be real, sex ed didn’t even touch on expansive pleasure or intimacy, and I’d like to change that!
I don’t believe that sex, sensuality, and pleasure need the fear-based backbone that’s systemically carved into our baseline learning experience. People deserve to heal their sexual relationship with themselves and to have satisfying embodied experiences that can adapt to every season of life.
My Personal Journey To Becoming A Sex Therapist
Over a decade ago I was sitting in a Love, Lust, and Relationship class. In an auditorium of hundreds, it felt like the professor was only talking to me. I felt alive. Seen. It was like none of the other students were there. It was just me, and the professor, talking about sex. It was the first time I ever heard sexuality discussed in a positive and matter-of-fact light. The Catholic guilt I internalized from my childhood was shaken in the best way possible - I was hooked on learning more and I started my own journey of unlearning harmful narratives that weren’t doing me any justice.
Following the “script” of what “good” sex looked liked felt disappointing and predictable; yet, I thought that if I followed the rules and kept my authentic desires and expressions at bay, I’d be safe from guilt and shame. As a result, I expressed sexuality in a robotic way and had some discovering and unpacking to do.
Here Are Some Of My Truths:
Have I faked Os in my lifetime? Sure have! Have I prioritized a partner's pleasure while (reluctantly) silencing mine? Yes. Did I believe my sexuality wasn’t my own? Yes. Have I questioned my sexual orientation and teased out default assumptions, experiences, and attractions? Yep! Have I lost interest in sex? Yup! Have I been more worried about how my body looks than how it’s receiving pleasure? Yes, yes I have. Am I still learning things about myself? Sure am! (and I will never have it all figured out. I’m human after all).
Along my journey I’ve learned that embracing the expansiveness that is human sexuality is incredibly healing. There is so much beauty in the variety of expression (spoiler alert, it’s not just about sex) and I can’t wait to invite you to witness it for yourself.
My Professional Background
My academic background includes receiving a Bachelor of Science in Social Work at Syracuse University and a Masters in Social Work from Denver Graduate School of Social Work. I’ve also completed training from the Institute for Sex Education and Enlightenment (ISEE) and hold their certificate as a holistic sex therapist. I’m also a member of the American Association of Sex Educators Counselors and Therapists, and I’m pursing their certification.
A Handful Of My Advanced Trainings:
The Joy Of Intimacy: Communication & Relationship Skills
Pleasure: Everything You Need to Know
Desire Discrepancy through an Asexual Lens
Revolution: New Ideas in Gender & Orientation
Cultivate Trans Thriving: Tools for Gender Liberation in Practice
Sexuality & Trauma: Healing Through Embodiment
Sex and Power: Working with Kinky Clients
I’ve been a part of the helping profession for over a decade. My experience ranges from non-profit settings to community mental health and to outpatient clinic care. I’ve also volunteered with a public health organization where we normalized conversations about sex and risk reduction practices in settings like concerts and at PRIDE. In 2022 I decided to breath life into my dream of starting a private practice specializing in sex therapy and it has brought me so much joy since!
Ready To Say “F*ck It” To Limits?
If you suspect there’s even more fulfilling knowledge and pleasure awaiting you and you’re ready to define your normal, by saying f*ck it to limiting lack-luster stories you’ve internalized, let’s lean in. You deserve to explore edges and boundaries that honor you!
Let’s connect - schedule your free 20 minute consultation call today.