Valentin Somma (he/his) is an IFS-trained Practitioner & Intimacy Coach (Internal Family Systems, or IFS, is an evidence-based therapy approach that recognizes the multiplicity of the mind). He helps mindful humans love their Inner Parts and their partner(s) better by moving toward more self-acceptance within and more intentionality with others. 

He is also an avid dancer and meditator and — in what feels like a previous life — got his Ph.D. in Economics from Columbia University and worked in management consulting at BCG. He also supports actors in the psychedelic space with strategy and consulting work.

In this episode, we discuss the following:

• What is the Internal Family Systems approach?

• What is an intimacy coach?

• Coaching men on consent as an ongoing conversation, not just a question at the beginning of a sexual encounter

• Valentin's approach to working with his clients helps them build a loving and compassionate relationship with all parts of themselves

• Healing the parts of ourselves that are protecting our old wounds or shame

• Our inner critic can become our most supportive cheerleader or a discerning voice

• Supporting men through their journeys and understanding of masculinity, vulnerability, and intimacy

• Facing the challenging emotions from childhood that can be affecting your most intimate relationships in adulthood.

• Managing the tension between expressing what is stereotypically considered masculine – strength, decisiveness, assertiveness – and exploring their more sensitive vulnerable sides – needing care, being compassionate and empathetic

You can find Valentin here: @awakeandsexy | awakeandsexy.com

Please support Valentin's foundation of choice: ACLU defends the rights of all people nationwide. Abortion care, trans people's right to live freely, people's right to vote - our freedoms are at stake please donate today and fuel the fight back in courts, statehouses, and nationwide.