A social and political movement that seeks to end systems of oppression and exploitation. In the context of intimacy, abolitionist intimacy involves challenging and disrupting power imbalances and harmful patterns of behavior within relationships and working to create more equitable and fulfilling connections with others.​

In the context of intimacy and relationships, harm reductionism involves acknowledging that people may engage in behaviors that may be harmful to themselves or others, and working to reduce the potential negative consequences of those behaviors. Harm reductionist approaches may also involve a non-judgmental and compassionate approach that recognizes the complexity of peoples experiences and the societal and personal factors that may contribute to harmful behaviors.​

Actively recognizing, supporting, and valuing diversity in all it’s forms. This can include diversity in terms of race, ethnicity, culture, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, age, religion, and others. In the context of our work together, being diversity affirming involves acknowledging and respecting the unique experiences, needs, and identities of oneself and others, and working to create inclusive and supportive environments where everyone feels valued and accepted. This involves being open to learning about and understanding different perspectives and ways of being, and being willing to challenge and dismantle systems of oppression and discrimination that can impact marginalized communities. Being a diversity affirming coach also involves actively seeking out and supporting diverse voices and representation, and working to create more equitable and inclusive spaces and opportunities for people of all backgrounds.​

Acknowledging and considering the ways in which different aspects of identity intersect and impact an individual’s experiences, needs, and relationships. This approach recognizes that people’s identities are complex and multi-faceted, and that systems of oppression and discrimination can intersect and compound to create unique challenges and experiences for marginalized communities. I work with clients to help them understand and navigate the ways in which their identities and experiences intersect and may impact their relationships or intimacy. This involves exploring and addressing power imbalances, privilege, and issues of equity within relationships, and working to create more inclusive and supportive environments.​

A counter-normative intimacy coach is someone who works with clients to challenge and disrupt societal norms and expectations around intimacy and relationships. This may involve helping clients explore and express their own desires, boundaries, and needs in ways that may not conform to traditional or prescribed expectations. It may also involve helping clients to develop a deeper understanding of and agency over their own sexuality and relationships, and to create more fulfilling and authentic connections with others. Counter-normative intimacy coaching may involve working with clients who are part of marginalized communities, or who may feel marginalized or discriminated against due to their identities or experiences. It may also involve challenging and disrupting systems of power and privilege that can impact intimacy and relationships. An intimacy coach who takes a counter-normative approach may have a holistic, sex-positive, and non-judgmental perspective, and may incorporate elements of personal growth, self-exploration, and social justice into their work with clients.​

I use the concept of embracing failure as a way to help clients learn and grow from their experiences, rather than seeing failure as a negative or defining aspect of their lives. This approach may involve helping clients to reframe their understanding of failure and to see it as an opportunity for learning and growth, rather than a personal failing or a sign of inadequacy. I use techniques such as mindfulness, self-compassion, and reframing to help clients embrace failure and learn from their experiences. For example, I may work with a client to explore their thoughts and feelings around failure, and to identify any unhelpful or negative beliefs they may have about themselves or their abilities. I may then help the client to develop a more compassionate and self-accepting mindset, and to see failure as a natural and inevitable part of the learning and growth process. Embracing failure can be a valuable approach in the context of intimacy and relationships, as it can help people to be more open and vulnerable with others, and to take risks and try new things without fear of failure. It can also help people to build resilience and self-acceptance, and to learn from their experiences in a way that can improve their relationships and overall well-being.​