S1 E6 Healing from Shame, Taking Up Space and Embracing Sober Sex with Therapist + Coach, Allison Guilbault

Mindful Sobriety The Podcast

In this conversation, Allison, a licensed therapist specializing in anxiety, trauma, and sex and intimacy, discusses the impact of alcohol on women's self-talk, relationships, and intimacy. She shares her personal journey of realizing the negative effects of alcohol and the lack of education on its impact. Allison emphasizes the importance of trusting oneself and the benefits of sobriety on relationships. She also addresses the shame and insecurities surrounding sex and provides guidance on setting boundaries and building confidence in navigating sober sex. Overall, the conversation highlights the transformative power of sobriety in improving self-worth, relationships, and intimacy. The conversation explores the importance of knowing and communicating our desires, the role of intimacy and communication in relationships, overcoming shame and guilt, building trust and resilience, challenging negative self-talk, and final tips and recommendations for those on a journey of self-discovery and sobriety.

Takeaways

• Alcohol can have a significant impact on women's self-talk, relationships, and overall well-being.
• The effects of alcohol are not limited to addiction and can negatively impact various aspects of life.
• Building trust in oneself is crucial for personal growth and making positive life choices.
• Sobriety can lead to improved relationships, increased self-confidence, and a deeper connection in intimate experiences. Knowing and communicating our desires is essential for healthy relationships.
• Intimacy and communication are key components of a fulfilling sexual relationship.
• Overcoming shame and guilt is crucial for open and honest communication about sex.
• Building trust and resilience allows for growth and exploration in relationships.
• Challenging negative self-talk is necessary for personal growth and self-acceptance.
• Seeking support and community can be beneficial on the journey of self-discovery and sobriety.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
01:10 The Impact of Alcohol on Women's Self-Talk and Relationships
03:23 The Lack of Education on the Effects of Alcohol
04:38 Recognizing the Negative Effects of Alcohol
06:23 Losing Trust in Oneself
08:27 The Importance of Trusting Yourself
09:14 Taking Breaks and Building Trust
10:57 The Impact of Sobriety on Relationships
13:11 Discovering the Gifts of Sobriety
15:50 The Role of Alcohol in Intimacy
18:27 The Negative Impact of Alcohol on Intimacy
20:36 Overcoming Shame and Insecurity
23:33 Setting Boundaries and Building Confidence
26:28 Addressing Shame and Taboos Around Sex
31:56 Navigating Sober Sex in a Relationship
34:34 Taking Small Steps and Building Comfort
34:53 Knowing and Communicating Our Desires
35:24 The Importance of Intimacy and Communication
36:26 Overcoming Shame and Guilt
37:41 Building Trust and Resilience
38:56 Challenging Negative Self-Talk
40:48 Getting in Touch with Allison
41:18 Becoming Unstoppable Podcast
42:35 Final Tips and Recommendations