Description:

The story of intimacy and sexuality in committed modern couples is one that often tells of dwindling desire and includes a long list of sexual alibis, claiming to explain the inescapable weakening of erotic connection. The absence of fantasy, the proliferation of pornography and affairs, as well as a lack of understanding of the nature of erotic desire all contribute to the depression, loneliness and despair. In this workshop we will probe the intricacies of love and desire. Through case examples and video vignettes, Ms. Perel will introduce innovative strategies for partners to take emotional risks when negotiating their dual needs for connection and autonomy, predictability and passion. This model applies to young, old, married and not, heterosexual and same sex couples.

Educational Objectives:

1. To describe the tension between the two fundamental human needs of security and adventure.
2. To describe how to draw pleasure from the hidden and mysterious while respecting needs for safety and stability.

*Sessions may be edited for content and to preserve confidentiality*