I interview Wendy Maltz, an internationally recognized sex therapist and bestselling author whose work has helped shape the field of sexual healing, about healing after sexual abuse and reclaiming a healthy relationship with your body, sexuality, and self. We explore how trauma impacts intimacy, why shame belongs to the perpetrator—not the survivor, how pornography can influence sexual expectations, the role of consent and boundaries in healthy relationships, and what true sexual healing looks like. Whether you’re recovering from childhood sexual abuse, navigating intimacy after trauma, supporting a loved one, or simply seeking a healthier understanding of sexuality, this conversation offers practical wisdom, hope, and healing.
**Content Note**
This episode includes discussion of sexual trauma and the healing process. Some listeners may find these topics emotionally activating. Please listen with care and take breaks if you need to. Your well-being comes first.
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Wendy Maltz is an award-winning pioneer in the field of sexuality. She is an internationally recognized sex therapist and author who accumulated more than forty years of clinical experience treating sex and intimacy concerns before retiring from counseling in 2016. Wendy authored numerous highly acclaimed sexuality resources, such as the recovery classic, The Sexual Healing Journey: A Guide for Survivors of Sexual Abuse, The Porn Trap: The Essential Guide to Overcoming Problems Caused by Pornography, and Private Thoughts: Exploring the Power of Women’s Sexual Fantasies. Wendy’s popular educational website, www.HealthySex.com, provides free articles, podcast interviews, posters, videos, sexual love poetry, and more to help people overcome sexual problems and develop skills for love-based sexual intimacy.
https://www.facebook.com/WendyMaltzAuthor
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00:00 Introduction
01:05 Wendy Maltz's Story & Why She Dedicated Her Life to Sexual Healing
05:45 Healing After Childhood Sexual Abuse
09:45 How Trauma Lives in the Body
11:45 \"Your Body Is Your Friend\"
13:00 Why Sexual Abuse Steals Your Personal Power
14:05 Why Survivors Feel Guilt
15:00 Consent Isn't a One-Time Thing
17:00 Why Shame Belongs to the Perpetrator
19:00 The \"Hot Potato\" of Shame
22:00 It Takes a Village to Heal
27:00 Is Healing After Sexual Abuse Really Possible?
29:00 Reclaiming Your Sexuality After Trauma
32:00 Rebuilding Trust & Intimacy
35:00 Why Shame Is So Hard to Let Go
38:30 What If Your Body Responded During Abuse?
42:00 Pornography, Porn Addiction & Healthy Sexuality
46:00 How Porn Changes the Brain & Relationships
50:00 What Is Healthy Sexuality?
54:00 The CERTS Model: Consent, Respect & Safety
56:00 Positive Sexuality & Resources for Healing
58:00 Keeping Intimacy Alive in Long-Term Relationships
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Hi, I'm Dr. V! Welcome to INNERCALLING, where I host organic conversations at the intersection of mental health, science, spirituality, & wisdom. Together with leading scientists, psychologists, authors, philosophers, and spiritual teachers, we explore consciousness, resilience, purpose, human flourishing, & the timeless questions that shape a meaningful life. My hope is these conversations help you reconnect with the inner light within you—the one no darkness can overcome. Thank you so much for joining me!
Dr. Victoria Ranade: www.victoriaranade.com
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Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Opinions expressed are those of the host and guest. Nothing in this episode should be construed as medical, psychological, legal, financial, or other professional advice.
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