SHIPS Psychology in Fitzroy, Victoria | Psychologist

SHIPS Psychology

Locality: Fitzroy, Victoria

Phone: +61 434 901 365

Address: Rear suite, level 4 169-171 Victoria Parade 3065 Fitzroy, VIC, Australia

Website: http://www.shipspsychology.com.au/contact

Likes: 405

Add/Update information

Reviews

Tags

• Doctor
• Medical and health
• Mental health service
• Psychologist
• Sex therapist

25.01.2022 What will happen when I attend my first appointment? The first few sessions are about the psychologist getting to know you and what you're struggling with, and for you to get to know the psychologist, their style, and if they are the right fit for you. This might feel like you don't have anything concrete to walk away. The first few sessions can also be very daunting, even if it isn't your first time seeing a psychologist it can feel very vulnerable and anxiety provoking. ... In the first session you should feel safe and supported. You will also be asked some questions about your current symptoms, your personal circumstances and history. There is no rush, and you can speak about whatever feels comfortable. The session will last 50 minutes. If there is anything you need to feel safe and supported, you should feel free to ask the practitioner or you can let our reception team know in advance. It is your space and we are here for you. If the practitioner is not the right fit for you let the practitioner or the reception team know. We can always match you with someone else. Your wellbeing is the most important thing to us. To learn more about what to expect click here: http://www.shipspsychology.com.au/about-us

24.01.2022 Welcome Aboard Nina Booysen, SHIPS’s newest recruit. Pronouns: She/her BA Psych, Grad. Dip. (Community Counselling), M. STIs, HIV & Sexual Health Counselling, M. Prof Social Work, EFS-ESSM Certified Psych-Sexologist (ECPS).... Nina has eight years’ experience in counselling and Sex Therapy. In her career she has worked in other areas such as domestic violence, sexual assault and addictions. She has a solid understanding of areas such as depression, anxiety and trauma. She is kink friendly and LGBTQI inclusive. Nina is passionate about helping people find comfort and pleasure with their sexual identity, expression and behaviour.

23.01.2022 Our collaborative blog with @xesproducts on the topic: dating on the spectrum recently went live. Dating is complex and multifaceted, and includes interpersonal, intrapersonal, and sexual factors. This can be really difficult for people on the autism spectrum, and one of the main points of discussion in therapy. ... Read the full post here: https://www.shipspsychology.com.au//dating-on-the-spectrum1

22.01.2022 Dr Sarah Ashton has created another online training for working and aspiring practitioners! A psychological approach to sexual pain. Live on October 23rd! This course will outline psychological models for understanding sexual pain presentation, the process of assessment and how you can utilise evidence-based treatment approaches such as: ... CBT, Schema Therapy, Sensate Therapy and Object Relational Therapy. Register your interest by following the link and you will be contacted as soon as this training is released. http://www.shipspsychology.com.au/training-for-practioners

22.01.2022 It’s Mens Mental Health Week and we would like to take this opportunity to talk about #masculinity and the sometimes harmful and limiting expectations that come come with what we think men (people who identify as) should look like, sounds like, treat people around them, achieve and have sex. We learn about what masculinity is and how to perform it through our parents, our friends, media, and porn. Not everything we learn is helpful eg: - It’s not ok for men to show #emotions.... (Reality check: It is more than ok. Showing emotions is a sign of strength!) - Men need to be in charge. (Reality check: Men can occupy any social position they like) - Men have to be muscular in order to be #sexy. (Reality check: all bodies are sexy) - Men want #sex all the time (Reality check: there is #diversity in how much men want to have sex, just like all other genders.) Here's the thing- we don't need to listen to any of these messages! What we need to listen to is ourselves- what we want, what we need, what we feel, and what we like. Masculinity can be your own #creation, rather than an idea dictated by cultural convention. #ships #shipspsychology #sexualhealthandintimacypsychologicalservices #mensmentalhealthweek #mensmentalhealth #male #men #genderroles #stereotypes

21.01.2022 Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (#STI) that is caused by the herpes simplex virus (#HSV) the same type of virus that causes cold sores. #Genital #herpes can cause outbreaks of blisters or sores on the genitals and anus. Once infected, you can continue to have episodes of symptoms throughout your life. If you think you have genital herpes, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible to confirm the diagnosis and start treatment. Genital herpes may r...aise strong emotional issues, especially in the first few weeks or months after a diagnosis. Some people initially feel #embarrassment, #shame, #anger, or #depression. Growing up in our society, most of us come to view a sexually transmitted infection as a fate that befalls only those who have done something wrong. We also tend to lose perspective- too often, we see health as an all-or-nothing thing: someone with a chronic infection is deemed unhealthy and somehow imperfect. If you have been diagnosed with gential herpes, here are some things to help you adjust to your diagnosis: Gential herpes is a common, manageable #virus, not a #punishment or #judgment. It's normal to be #stressed by genital herpes, especially at first. Give yourself time to adjust, and remember that it will get easier. Try to keep in mind that genital herpes is like other viruses or infections you may have had in the past. You are capable of managing it. If you’re feeling isolated, you may need to find someone to talk to. Perhaps you might pick one close friend and tell them about it. You can ask that the conversation be kept in absolute confidence. Try not to make the assumption that having genital herpes will prevent you from being sexually active or having successful long-term relationships. There are millions of couples in which one, both or all partners have this virus. For the vast majority, the relationships stand or fall on a variety of other issues. If you or your partner/s are struggling to adjust or move past the diagnosis, it may be helpful to talk to your practitioner about this in either individual or relationship sessions.

21.01.2022 6th of July is International Kissing Day! Let's celebrate with some fun facts about the science and psychology of kissing: 1. Most of our first experiences with love and security usually involve lip pressure and stimulation through behaviors that mimic kissing (i.e. breast and/ or bottle feeding). These early events lay down important neural pathways in an infant's brain that associate kissing with positive emotions that continue to be important as we develop. 2. When we ...share a kiss with someone, our brain receives a whirlwind of neurotransmitters and hormones that influence how we think and feel. We learn about others' sense of smell, taste and touch. A passionate kiss has been shown to result in surges of dopamine, which is linked to feelings of craving and desire. Oxytocin (or the 'love hormone'), also increases, helping to foster a sense of closeness and attachment. Adrenaline boosts our heart rate (and maybe makes our stomach flip), and cortisol (the stress hormone) reduces, making our blood vessels dilate, our breath deepen, our cheeks flush and our pulse quicken. As @TheGuardian brilliantly put it, "science has barely begun to study kissing, despite its obvious evolutionary and personal significance, but what we already know demonstrates that there’s a lot more going on than meets the eyes and lips."

21.01.2022 Ever wondered about the difference between a fetish and a kink? In general, a fetish is a specific object or act (i.e. stockings, sploshing) that is strongly linked to the experience of desire, pleasure or orgasm. When this fixation is on a particular body part (i.e. feet), then this is called partialism. According to @DavidOrtmann, one part of the whole body is isolated and viewed in an erotic way. ... Conversely, kink is a broader term that emcompasses any sexual behaviour that is considered 'non-conventional'...but there is so much diversity in sexual preferences anyway, there is really no way to define what is 'conventional' anyway! Accordingly, 'kink' is usually a self imposed label or way of describing preferences. Think of it like this- all fetishes are kinks, but not all kinks are fetishes. Fetishes usually develop through paired association - experiencing arousal or orgasm while the one or more of the senses are engaged with the object or act. This can happen by accident (eg. you happen to be smelling banana the first time you masturbate). The earlier on in life some this association is developed the more powerful the neurological link. There so many different ways that kinks can develop, so there is no simple, all encompassing explanation! But they often they meet deeper psychological needs eg. need for power, safety, freedom.

21.01.2022 Yesterday was international day for people with a disability. To celebrate we released yesterday on instagram a collaborative blog with XES Products to promote the experiences and voices of people with a disability. Our psychologist Grace Blucher has written a blog about dating on the spectrum. Grace works with many clients who are on the spectrum, and they work together to navigate the complex world of sex, love and dating.... Read it here: https://www.shipspsychology.com.au//dating-on-the-spectrum1

20.01.2022 Save the date! More information to come.

20.01.2022 Over the last month we have been working hard on updating our website! Launch day is finally here! Check out our new resources page for all the tools you need to explore your mental health, sexual health, relationships and gender!... We also have an events page - checkout what’s in the pipeline for 2021! We will be adding to it regularly, so be sure to check in. Click here to have a play: https://www.shipspsychology.com.au/home

20.01.2022 Are you currently single? Feeling lonely in lockdown?

19.01.2022 Interview with Dr Sarah Ashton! Question: What to expect when booking your first appointment? What will happen when you call SHIPS? To book, head over to our website: http://www.shipspsychology.com.au/contact

19.01.2022 Today at SHIPS we have (virtually) gathered in purple to show our support of rainbow young people. We accept you. We stand with you. We support you. Wear it Purple was founded in 2010 in response to global stories of teenagers who were marginalised or suffered bullying and harassment for their sexuality or gender identity.... This year's theme is on the importance of encouragement, empowerment and an emphasis on making effective change for LGBTQIA+ folks and all minority groups. How will you help make a change? Head over to @wear_it_purple for lots of fabulous resources!

19.01.2022 Our team meeting on zoom this month! Virtual hugs being given as we welcome new members aboard. For further information on our team check out our website: http://www.shipspsychology.com.au/our-team-1

19.01.2022 Content warning: Suicide and self harm . . . .... . If someone you loved said they were thinking about killing themselves, would you know how to respond and support them? Being prepared emotionally and practically can support your mental wellbeing and make you better equipped to assist your loved one. Unfortunately, a global pandemic is a risk factor for increased suicide rates, which means more people are thinking about killing themselves and need support. In response, our latest blog post has been written for you, and for the hardship you might be experiencing caring for, or being worried about, a loved one who is not doing so well. I hope you can get some general information from it and some resources to help you read the signs and know what actions to take if this becomes a reality in your life. Being prepared emotionally and practically can support your mental wellbeing and make you better equipped to assist your loved one. Click this link to read the full article: http://www.shipspsychology.com.au/blog

19.01.2022 Content warning: Suicide and self harm . . . .... . Today is R U Okay Day! It’s our national day of action to remind all Australians that every day is suicide prevention, and every day is the day to ask, Are you OK?. Our recent blog post on ‘How to Support a Loved One who is Suicidal’ outlines how to talk about suicide, the warning signs, what a safety plan is, when to act, looking after yourself, and where to get training and extra help on this topic. If someone in your world is struggling with life’s ups and downs and the added challenges of Victoria's extended lockdown or the pandemic - reach out. Click the link to read the full article: http://www.shipspsychology.com.au/blog

18.01.2022 Sexual arousal is moderated by two systems. Think of them as our "brakes" and our "accelerators." Our Sexual Excitation System (the sympathetic nervous system or "the accelerator") is what sends signals from our brain to our genitals to tell them "turn on". Our Sexual Inhibition System (the parasympathetic nervous system or "the brakes") is what notices threats in our environment, or anything that the brain interprets as a good reason not to be aroused right now, and sends ..."turn off" signals to our genitals. While the sensitivity of our accelerator and brakes varies from person to person, everyone's accelerator and brakes are driven by context. Lockdown or COVID-19 has the potential to act as an accelerator for some people, and a brake for others. Some people may find being in lockdown with their partner(s) increases their arousal (due to more time together, feelings of closeness), while others may find that this decreases their arousal (perhaps feeling smothered, or a lack of independence). Each person is different. Researcher Emily Nagoski has some awesome worksheets on this topic if you wish to explore this further: https://static1.squarespace.com//TURNING+OFF+THE+OFFS+WORK

18.01.2022 Did you know that vulva orgasms also occur on a continuum? That is, orgasms can sometimes feel robust and powerful and at other times dull and weak. This fluctuation between each sexual experience also leaves room for some confusion as many aren’t sure if what they’ve experienced is actually an orgasm or not. Does this sound familiar? ... You might have had a time when you think you have orgasmed, but on second thought you aren’t completely sure. In these circumstances it’s possible that you did have one. Just one that occurred on the weaker end of the spectrum. Our student intern @lauramianosexology wrote a blog post recently on anorgasmia, which to put simply, it’s the absence of, or difficulty in, reaching orgasm after a good amount of sexual stimulation. Click the link to read the full post. http://www.shipspsychology.com.au/blog

18.01.2022 From the outside, therapy can seem a bit strange- you sit in a room, with a person you don't know and share your deepest darkest secrets. Then, you walk out and don't see them again for a week or two! When you attend your first appointment with a either a new psychologist or therapist it is completely normal to feel nervous, but rest assured our main aim is to put you at ease. After some time, you will get to know how therapy works and feel more comfortable. Having a regula...r, predictable, safe space that is just for you can feel completely wonderful. In the meantime, knowing what to expect from your first session can make you feel a little bit more at ease. Here is what will happen at SHIPS- It is helpful to arrive a little early to your first session so that you can find our office and complete forms. You will be asked to complete a consent form & questionnaires (which your practitioner will also talk through with you). Your practitioner will welcome you to your therapy room. You should feel safe and supported in this space, and we would invite you to make yourself comfortable. Your practitioner will ask what has brought you to therapy, and what your goals are. Your practitioner will also ask some questions about your current symptoms, your personal circumstances and history. There is no rush, and you can speak about whatever feels comfortable. Just remember, If there is anything we can do to make the experience more comfortable for you, just our reception staff know! #ships #shipspsychology #sexualhealthandintimacypsychologicalservices #sexualhealth #intimacy #psychology #psychologist #therapy #therapist #mentalhealth #safespace

17.01.2022 We have exciting news! We have partnered with Nikki Darling - Australia's first gender-free sexual health and pleasure store. We both believe that sex toys are for every body and pleasure is a human right. ... Nikki Darling has a carefully curated range of quality sexual health essentials, sex toys, pleasure products and more for you to choose from. If you use the code SHIPS you will receive 5% off all their products. Who said the perfect Christmas present does not exist? Oh...they're adding new products all the time so be sure to check back often. #shipspsychology #mentalhealth #lgbtiqhealth #melbournepsychology #sextoys #sextoyshop #pleasure #sextherapy #therapist #sexeducator #sexologist #sexed

17.01.2022 Interview with Dr Sarah Ashton! Question: What is the difference between sex therapy and psychology? For more information about our practice at SHIPS read our What To Expect Page: http://www.shipspsychology.com.au/about-us

17.01.2022 Here is a sneak peek at some content from the Erectile Dysfunction training being released on 31 July 2020! This is original content developed by Dr Sarah Ashton. In the training she will explain how evidence-based therapeutic frameworks can intervene with this cycle and treat erectile difficulties! To be notified when this training is released, you can register on our website:... http://www.shipspsychology.com.au/training-for-practioners

16.01.2022 SHIPS has been growing, and growing, and growing this year! Thanks to all your support and interest in our service. Our team page on our website has been updated with lots of new faces. It is so wonderful to be surrounded by so many dedicated, compassionate and experienced professionals. ... Click here to read our team bios: http://www.shipspsychology.com.au/our-team-1 Enquire here about joining the team: [email protected]

16.01.2022 The Australian Government will provide 10 additional Medicare subsidised psychological therapy sessions for people subjected to further restrictions in areas impacted by the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. If you have used up your existing 10 sessions and are based in Victoria, you can access 10 more! Remember you are not alone - click the 'contact us' button on our page. ... https://www.health.gov.au//additional-covid-19-mental-heal

16.01.2022 It is estimated that 1 in 10 women (self-identified) are affected by endometriosis and there needs to be more open discussion about how this can affect sex. Endometriosis occurs when cells that resemble the uterus lining grow elsewhere in the body, including the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or bowel. Sometimes, these growths can be contacted during sex, which can be very painful. Dyspareunia (the technical term for pain during sex) frequently occurs in people with endometriosis..., because penetration and other movements during sex can stretch and pull at the endometrial growths, particularly if the growths are behind the vagina or lower uterus. The pain can vary from person to person, and while some people may experience pain only during penetration, others may experience pain after sex. Unsurprisingly, when someone experiences pain during sex, this can impact on sexual desire and arousal. This is the body's way of protecting itself against something it perceives as harmful. For example, if the brain learns that penetration causes pain, the brain might become hypervigilant resulting in pelvic tension and/or fear during attempts at pelvic penetration (mostly at an unconscious level). Together with support from other health practioners (including GPs, pelvic floor phsyiotherapists, gynecologists and/ or osteopaths), it can be helpful to talk to a psychologist about endometriosis and sex. This can help to explore your sexual desires and how to achieve these in the context of endometriosis, to build communication skills between you and your partner/s, and to heal your relationship with your body. Check out Dr Kate Young's amazing research for more information about women's experience of endometriosis. http://tonictea.blogspot.com//endometriosis-and-relationsh

16.01.2022 SHIPS has been growing! Meet our newest member and practitioner Javiera Dastres! Pronouns: She/her BPsychStud, BAppSci(Psych)(Hons), PostGradDip(ProfPsych) Javiera (pronounced Ha-vyeah-ra) is a psychologist with a passion for providing respectful and non-judgemental treatment and services. ... She has experience working with complex trauma, and she provides therapy that draws on numerous approaches. Recently, Javiera volunteered in Peru as a Psychology Assistant and provided counselling to child, adolescent, and adult clients, with a particular focus on supporting survivors of family violence and abuse. Javiera has a particular interest in the interplay between mental health, cultural upbringing, and sexual health. She is welcoming of all relationship structures (i.e., ethical non-monogamy), and is kink friendly and LGBTIQ+ inclusive. She is also fluent in Spanish.

16.01.2022 We cannot keep up with all our referrals and need another psychologist to join our SHIPS team! Are you a psychologist with an interest in sexual health with passion for professional growth and supporting meaningful change in our community? We would love to hear from you. ... Click this link to learn more: https://www.seek.com.au/job/50290928 Or For queries please contact Sarah on: 0422 490 444

15.01.2022 What would it look like if you gave yourself full permission to express yourself as a sexual being? What desires and fantasies would you share? What anxieties would you let go of? How would you present yourself to the world? Asking yourself these questions can help identify what might be holding you back from embracing the truest version of yourself. If you want to discuss any of these thoughts of feelings with a practitioner - get in contact with us here: http://www.shipspsychology.com.au/contact

14.01.2022 Have you checked in with your inner child recently? Dr Sarah Ashton has developed an 8 minute inner child meditation for you. Listen here: https://soundcloud.com/meghan-wright/inner-child-meditation

14.01.2022 Click to register for our next event in collaboration with Sexpressions Melb Uni: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing?eid=667295&

14.01.2022 Intimacy Builders Lockdown and restrictions have limited/removed some of the ways we connect emotionally and physically. Our SHIPS psychologists have designed some questions to increase intimacy. ... You can either reflect on these questions on your own, ask a friend, message them to someone online or ask your partner/s.

14.01.2022 So excited to announce this event collaboration! https://fb.me/e/32qiX1fnb

14.01.2022 Let's talk about anal sex! The anus has nerve endings both internally and externally that can result in pleasurable stimulation for some - and not for others! A lot of this depends on the type of stimulation and your psychological association with it. If you see anal sex as a 'taboo', then this can often be extra exciting, or a total turn off. Many people experience pleasure from stimulation outside of the anus sometimes referred to as 'rimming'. Pleasure can also be experie...nced when the prostate is stimulated through internal penetration or through contact and rubbing against the vaginal wall. Penetration and internal stimulation can involve a penis, finger, tongue or a toy. Check out @nikkidarlingau for excellent toys! Unlike the vagina, the anus does not naturally lubricate, so it's important to use a water based lubricant to prevent tearing and pain. Similarly, because the anus is easy to tear, it can be more prone to infection. Using a condom and lubricant can make anal sex more pleasurable and safe for everyone. And the most important ingredient of all- communication - about what you need and what feels good or not. Anal stimulation, can be a vulnerable experience emotionally and physcially so it is important you honour how you feel, and communicate with your partner/s. Image Credit- @pink_bits

14.01.2022 We are so excited to be hosting this sold out event tonight! Make sure you're ready with your drink and snack for a 6pm SHARP kick off so we can get through all your questions. Zoom links are in order confirmation emails. ... Any queries, feel free to DM us here or on instagram.

14.01.2022 Erogenous zones are areas of the body with heightened sensitivity that can produce a sexual response when stimulated. Check out these areas for some ideas of places on the body to explore that are often overlooked!

12.01.2022 Today is Intersex Awareness Day. An international day to celebrate beautiful intersex people! Intersex people are individuals born with any or several variations in sex characteristics including chromosomes, gonads, sex hormones or genitals. Unfortunately, variations away from what is considered ‘normal’ often lead to pathologisation, stigmatisation and discrimination. This needs to change.... Intersex people need our support and acceptance. We see you, we stand with you. #intersexawarenessday #shipspsychology #melbournepsychologist

12.01.2022 Pansexuality has been growing in visibility in recent times. Yay! Pansexuality has been defined by @glaad as being attracted to all gender identities, or attracted to all people regardless of gender. In quoting someone who identifies as pansexual, GLAAD wrote that 'being pansexual basically means to me that you are attracted to anyone, no matter their sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, everything. There's no limits. I'll date anyone. It's more that I love someone for their soul.’ At the end of the day, regardless of how anyone defines a label to describe sexuality (such as pansexuality), if you choose to use a label, you decide what it means to you.

11.01.2022 Over lockdown, the added pressure of separation and trauma may have led to changes in your friendships. You might be feeling a friend-shaped absence of someone you used to be super close with, but you either faded out of one another’s orbits, or you had a friendship break up. Clinical Psychologist and friendship researcher, Dr Miriam Kirmayer, normalises that some friendships fade out, get messy, or break up, and cautions us not to assume that this is all our fault. For mor...e on this topic, read the full article on our blog. http://www.shipspsychology.com.au/blog #shipspsychology #mentalhealth #lgbtiqhealth #melbournepsychology #psychology #betterorgasms #communication #friendship #friendshipbreakups #sextherapy #therapist #breakups #sexuality #sexology #sexeducator #sexologist #sexed

11.01.2022 Have you ever thought about a career in sex therapy / psychology and missed out on our first event? Well, we are hosting round 2.0! Don't miss out again - register now via Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/how-to-start-you-career-in-

11.01.2022 Content warning: Abusive relationships / intimate partner violence . . . .... . . . . . Support services: Safe Steps 1800 015 188 CASA House: (03) 9635 3600 1800RESPECT If you are in crisis: Lifeline on 13 11 14, QLife (LGBTQIA Specific) 1800 184 527 Beyondblue 1300 224 636 Emergency Services on 000. Steps for recovery: 1. Establishing safety (physical, psychological & body) 2. Learning to trust (self & others) 3. Understand what happened 4. Compassion (for self & others)

10.01.2022 Today is World Sexual Health Day! Since 2010, the World Association for Sexual Health has invited many audiences to celebrate and join them in promoting sexual health, well-being and rights for all. Although COVID-19 may feel like it has inhibited our access to sexual healthcare, many practices are still operating via telehealth for psychological care and some services are still offering in person appointments for medical care such as STI testing. Looking after yourself duri...ng this difficult time is more important than ever. Sexual healthcare is a human right. We are doing Telehealth - if you need to book an appointment click here: http://www.shipspsychology.com.au/contact

10.01.2022 Knowing how to respond when someone is upset can be difficult. Often we try to help by problem-solving, by sharing experiences or knowledge. Despite our best intentions, focusing on solutions can lead a person to feel invalidated. Most of the time, when you are upset you want someone to really listen, understand, and sit with us in the difficult space so we are not alone. Can you remember a time where you felt really heard? As Carl Rogers (modern psychotherapist) said, Whe...n someone really hears you without passing judgement on you, without trying to take responsibility for you, without trying to mould you; it feels damn good! Empathy is critical to establishing and maintaining consciously-connected relationships, whether those relationships are platonic, romantic, sexual or intimate. Empathy is the ability to stand in the other person’s shoes, and feel and understand the experiences they are describing. Empathic communication requires four key skills: 1. Listen without judgement - Try to be curious about someone’s feelings and experiences, without blaming, judging, analysing or problem-solving. The aim is to understand the other person’s perspective without imposing your own. 2. Look for feelings - Emotions are the most important clue to understanding the meaning in someone’s experience. Facial expressions, body language, and the words that someones give you clues about how they feel. 3. Climb in the boat - Imagine that a person you are listening to is alone in a boat on a choppy river. Instead of throwing them a rope so you can pull them out, imagine sitting in the boat with them and really understanding the experience of the ups and downs of the river. You might need to use your imagination and ask questions to understand this better. 4. Summarise and validate - Summarising what someone has told you allows you to check your understanding and it also lets them know you have understood. Validating means you emphasise that their experience is important to you and them, even if it is different to yours. One of our deepest needs as a human is to feel understood, and empathy helps us do that. Showing empathy in our relationships helps us to learn more about a person, their inner experience, to build trust and intimacy and ultimately, to connect.

10.01.2022 Intimacy builders 3.0 A little background on love languages before we jump in. Your ‘love language’ describes the way you give and receive love. Everyone communicates love differently. Dr Gary Chapman identified 5 categories of love languages: ... 1. Words of affirmation (verbal compliments that express your love and appreciation) 2. Quality time (focused and undivided attention on one another) 3. Gifts (tangible symbols that reflect your thoughtfulness) 4. Acts of service (any action that eases the burden of responsibility) 5. Physical touch (non-verbal, using touch and body language to express love) Understanding love languages can help you learn more about yourself and your partner/s & grow intimacy. Reflect on what kind of language you use to express love and how you like to receive it (they can be different). Then ask your partner/s to do the same. Your partner/s might be communicating love in a language you don’t understand! Or vice-versa. You might be more loved than you realise.

10.01.2022 Did you attend our latest event on ‘how to start your career in psychology and sex therapy’, were you on the wait list, or are you interested in learning more about sexual health and psychology? Sign up here to learn about our upcoming events: https://forms.gle/uBZrNTcxAyECsffZA

10.01.2022 Introducing another SHIPS team member - Laura Halliday (pronouns: she/her)! Laura is currently a registered psychologist (AHPRA) and a clinical psychology registrar with a passion for working with people who experience minority stress and/or shame stemming from society’s sex negative attitudes. Laura uses a positive psychology lens to focus on the inherent individual strengths of each person with whom she has the privilege of working, in order to empower them to create lasti...ng change. She has a special interest in supporting parents in rainbow families and families with diverse relationship structures. To learn more, visit the link in our bio and click ‘Our Team’! http://www.shipspsychology.com.au/our-team-1

09.01.2022 We mentioned a few weeks ago we had a podcast collaboration on kink and BDSM coming up We are very excited to announce that it will be with triple j The Hook Up! For the next month we will be diving into this topic and unpacking all the basics!... From the outside a lot of people can be curious - how can you love someone and enjoy inflicting pain on them or visa versa? There are lots of complex answers to this which we will be resharing here from their page. Give them a follow on instagram to stay up to date @triplejthehookup

09.01.2022 To support people who have not been able to access treatment, and are waiting to see a practitioner, our Director is offering once-off support sessions. What is a support session useful for? -Debriefing about a distressing experience -Identifying some short-term coping strategies until longer-term treatment is available... -Accessing some useful resources -Discussing how they plan to manage the christmas/holiday period Contact our admin team for more information and to book a session. https://www.shipspsychology.com.au/contact-index

09.01.2022 If you’re experiencing painful sex, you are not alone! Painful sex is much more common than you would think, as many as 20% of people with vulva’s experience persistent or recurrent genital pain immediately before, during, or after sex. For more information check out our latest blog post by our Clinical Psychologist Faustina Delany here: http://www.shipspsychology.com.au/blog

09.01.2022 SHIPS is thrilled to introduce its new social media coordinator Meghan Wright! Pronouns: She/her With her previous experience working in public health, event creation and start ups focused on sexual health, Meg is committed to sharing knowledge that will help build a safer community. ... She is interested empowering individuals to understand sexuality and ultimately smash stigma. Meg creates an open discussion online for SHIPS clients to further engage with psychological concepts and resources to support positive mental and physical health.

08.01.2022 In our last two pieces, we have explored why we fight with our special people (even about irrelevant or small things), and how to stay grounded during conflict. In this part 3 blog post, we will be looking at how and what to communicate when we are feeling in conflict with our partner/s. Click here to read: http://www.shipspsychology.com.au/blog In our last piece, we will be exploring the idea of repair and how we bring our relationship back from a significant moment of hur...t and vulnerability. #shipspsychology #mentalhealth #lgbtiqhealth #melbournepsychology #fight #howtohaveagoodfight #HTHAGF #sextherapy #therapist #sexeducator #sexologist #sexed

08.01.2022 Live on the 31st of July, the training is original content developed by Dr Sarah Ashton the founder of SHIPS psychology. In the training she will explain how evidence-based therapeutic frameworks can treat erectile difficulties! It includes practical tools, handouts and case-studies. You can register now on our website: http://www.shipspsychology.com.au/training-for-practioners

08.01.2022 What is the inner child? Our ‘inner child’ is a useful concept to identify the parts of us that hold our child-like behaviours, expression and experiences. Our inner child is carried with us into adulthood, usually on a subconscious level. It carries all the needs, adaptations and traumas that were experienced in our childhood. When was the last time you checked in with your inner child?... Head over to our instagram story to learn how. Art by Samuel Leighton-Dore

07.01.2022 It’s Trans Awareness Week! To celebrate we want to share some history. This is Tracey Africa Norman - the first queer trans black woman who was on the cover of Vogue! Tracey is an activist icon that @them recently interviewed about her career. Celebrating icons in the public domain and hearing their experiences is so important! It increases the visibility of trans folk, challenges social marginalisation, and gives people around the world permission to be themselves. ... If you are in the process of gender transition or thinking about it, having a space to talk about your experience internally and externally is vital. Supportive discussion with a psychologist can help you to explore how you think about your gender, consider any legal, social and medication transitions that might be right for you, and it can help you process experiences of marginalisation and discrimination. Every week, not just this week we work to ensure the safety of transgender, gender diverse and non-binary people by: - Educating all of our staff on inclusive language and practice - Using gender neutral pronouns and language until we know how you would like to be referred to - Maintaining our membership with ACON's Welcome Here Project - Remaining open to any feedback about how we can do better. For more info on Trans Awareness Week and some damn cool events - check out @minus18 To the trans community - we see you, we celebrate you, and we are with you. #shipspsychology #sexualhealthandintimacypsychologicalservices #gender #sex #transgender #trans #queer #lgbtiqa #genderdiverse #nonbinary #psychology #psychologist #therapy #therapist #wpath #transition #gendertransition #followtherainbow #aconwelcomehere

07.01.2022 We are currently experiencing global trauma. What we are collectively feeling right now is a grief response for the life we knew. We have all experienced a loss of predictability, control, justice and a belief that we can protect our most vulnerable. ... Grief is a natural response, and it is ok to feel grief over what we’re losing. It’s also an evolving loss- people will experience new losses we can’t yet predict. Journaling to put words to losses and to identify ways to move forward can be helpful. It is an act of self care. Name what you’re losing (both individually and collectively) and name your strengths and coping skills. While most of us haven’t been through something like this before, we might have been through other challenging transitions- it can help to reflect on this and think about how you have healed and recovered in the past.

07.01.2022 Period sex is like pizza. If you want it, have it. If you don't want it, don't have it. Sometimes though, even though we want pizza (code- period sex), we don't order any. Here's the thing, for some people, sexual desire and arousal doesn't switch off when we menstruate and for others it does! It's all completely normal. And it's normal for it to change over time. Same rules apply for period sex as any other sexual activity:... - Concerned your partner/s won't be into period sex? Just ask them. - Feeling aroused, but not wanting to have sex is totally ok. Masturbation is great, or ask your partner/s for an intimate massage, oral sex, or non-sexual touch instead. - If you don't want to have sex on your period. Don't do it. Period. And as a sneaky bonus, the dopamine that is released during an orgasm has been shown to lessen pain, and can help with uterine cramping. #ships #shipspsychology #sexualhealth #sexualhealthandintimacypsychologicalservices #period #menstruation #periodsex #dopamine #cramp #uterus #orgasm #masturbation #sexualdesire #sexualarousal

06.01.2022 Have you ever heard of the ‘Spoon Theory’? The Spoon Theory uses spoons to conceptualise units of energy (mental and physical). Every day we have a set number of spoons to use. Each activity (like going to work, calling a friend, having an argument, or going to the shops) requires spoons. When you run out of spoons you might feel exhausted, easily irritable or emotional. Spoons can be replaced as the person "recharges" through rest. ... Some of us have less spoons than others. For example, those of us who experience chronic illness, manage mental health symptoms or experience discrimination or marginalisation. These experiences will also impact on how many spoons it takes to do an activity. Eg. going to the shops = 1 spoon Going to the shops when you experience discrimination based on how you look = 3 spoons Covid-19 has taken spoons from everyone. You might also feel like you can't complete as many tasks in your day as you could pre-covid. You might feel like you have less spoons over all. Be kind and understanding to yourself and others. Everyone is doing the best they can with the spoons they have. Oh and spend some time thinking about what replenishes your spoons. Is it a good meal? A long sleep? A couple of naps? A call to a friend? Whatever it may be, now is the time to prioritise this.

06.01.2022 TRAINING RELEASED! Learn how to treat pornography addiction from industry leaders. This training will describe how clients experience pornography addiction and the neurological impact. You will have access to our original process model which illustrates the development of addiction and the cycle of addiction once a client is attempting to cease use. You will learn how to assess this issue comprehensively, and break the cycle using evidence-based psychological tools. What’s c...overed? Introduction How clients experience pornography Pornography and the brain Developing addition & addiction cycle Assessment Treatment Case example To start the training, click here: https://www.shipspsychology.com.au/online-training

06.01.2022 Today is international pronoun day! We would like to take this opportunity to share practical tips on using pronouns: Use they/them pronouns before you meet someone/know their pronouns. ... Practice using they/them pronouns in everyday conversation - this can make using these feel more natural. Consider adding your pronouns to your email signature or bio, or other online profiles. Introduce yourself including your pronouns: "Hi! My name is ___ and my pronouns are ___". When you meet people, ask for their pronouns: "Hi ___, nice to meet you - can I check what pronouns you use?" You don’t owe anyone an explanation of your pronouns and you can change them whenever you like. If you use the wrong pronouns in conversation, apologise, correct yourself, and move on. If someone else corrects you, apologise and thank them. Practice using their pronouns in your head, repeating it internally can help you avoid getting it wrong. Pronouns are an affirming, important part of our social experience. Let’s all support and create safe experiences for each other. #internationalpronounday #shipspsychology

05.01.2022 Interview with Dr Sarah Ashton! Question: What should you expect from your first few sessions, and what should you do if you feel like you don’t click with your psychologist? For more information read our What To Expect Page: http://www.shipspsychology.com.au/about-us

05.01.2022 Interview with Dr Sarah Ashton! Question: what is the difference between SHIPS and other psychology clinics? For more information, head over to our website: http://www.shipspsychology.com.au

04.01.2022 Training now live: https://sexual-health-intimacy-psychological-training.teach

04.01.2022 The second round of intimacy builders is out. This time with a focus on emotional intimacy. Ask a friend, partner/s, someone online or reflect on your own.

04.01.2022 Tonight, the SHIPS Crew gathered together for our monthly team meeting. As part of our commitment to best practice and ongoing development, we regularly meet to discuss the practice, and how we can be doing things better. Got an idea about how we can be doing better? Flick us a DM, email Reception, or chat to your practitioner. #ships #shipspsychology #sexualhealthandintimacy #sexualhealthandintimacypsychologicalservices #team #teammeeting #crew

02.01.2022 Ethical non-monogamy is an umbrella term for relationship structures that are intentionally and ethically not based on sexual or romantic exclusivity. Under this umbrella, there can be many different structures, agreements and relationships, including open relationships, polyamory, stranger sex, hookups, friends with benefits, relationship anarchy and swinging among others. Non-monogamy, done ethically, requires compassion, communication, equality and consent. This looks d...ifferent for each person and each relationship. And it's not just about sex! It can also involve developing meaningful emotional connections with more than one person. Typically, partners agree on rules or boundaries to make sure everyone feels loved, secure and safe. It is important that these rules and agreements are reviewed regularly and that everyone takes time to 'check in'. This might offer a chance to work through emotional responses. All parties must be equally clear and on board with what constitutes infidelity (or non-consensual non-monogamy) within their specific contract. It's ok for things to change! Your relationship structure and agreement needs to be right for you and right for your partner/s. Ethical non-monogamy isn't for everyone, but for some, it means more love, sex, freedom, and the opportunity to be yourself. Want to know more about ethical non-monogamy? Check out The Ethical Slut: A Guide to Infinite Sexual Possibilities by Dossie Easton and Janet Hardy; and More than Two: A Practical Guide to Ethical Polyamory by Franklin Veaux and Eve Rickert. #ships #shipspsychology #sexualhealthandintimacypsychologicalservices #ethicalnonmonogamy #nonmonogamy #sexualhealth #intimacy #sex #poly #polyamorous #polyamory #strangersex #hookup #threesome #fwb #swinging #swing #relationshipanarchy #anarchy #boundaries

01.01.2022 Do you struggle to reach orgasm? You are not alone. Anorgasmia is a condition that 10 - 40% of the vulva owning community experience. Put simply, it’s the absence of, or difficulty in, reaching orgasm after a good amount of sexual stimulation. ... Anorgasmia can present in a number of different ways. It can be categorised as 1) lifelong, which is when a person has never experienced an orgasm, or, 2) acquired, which is when a person was previously able to orgasm but no longer can. Anorgasmia can also be context dependent, so only experienced in certain situations or it can occur across all sexual situations. It’s important to note that anorgasmia is complex, this means it appears in diverse ways and your experience might look very different to another person’s. Before we jump into this topic, it is also important to say that having an orgasm is not important to everyone! It’s important not to pathologize diversity preferences. We only treat people who are distressed by this experience. To learn more about anorgasmia read the full blog post! http://www.shipspsychology.com.au/blog