137: How Does Mormon Purity Culture Affect Men

On this episode of the Natasha Helfer Podcast, Michelle Mower joins to discuss how the Mormon purity culture affects men. Michelle Mower, LPC, LMFT, CST,  is a therapist, coach, educator, and certified sex therapist who helps adults understand what's actually going on in their sexuality and relationships. Her work focuses on the erotic mind; how thoughts, desire, and personal history shape the way people experience intimacy. She works with individuals and couples who feel confused, disconnected, or at odds with their own desire, helping them move out of self-questioning and into clarity. Her approach is direct, grounded, and focused on making sense of experiences that often feel hard to explain, even to yourself. Michelle is completing her PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, where her research examines sexual shame in men raised in the Mormon faith and the long-term impact of religious sexual conditioning on identity and desire. She is known for saying the things people are already thinking but haven't been able to put into words, bringing clarity to conversations about sex and relationships that are often avoided or oversimplified. Her work challenges the idea that something is wrong with you and instead focuses on understanding what hasn't been explained yet. You can find out more about her work on her website:  https://www.michelle-mower.com/ Or here: https://www.expansecounselingcenter.com/ Go here to read her dissertation (see podcast notes and resources): https://www.natashahelfer.com/the-natasha-helfer-podcast/episode137   To help keep this podcast going, please consider donating at natashahelfer.com and share this episode. To watch the video of this podcast, you can subscribe to Natasha's channel on Youtube and follow her professional Facebook page at natashahelfer LCMFT, CST-S. You can find all her cool resources at natashahelfer.com.  The information shared on this program is informational and should not be considered therapy. This podcast addresses many topics around mental health and sexuality and may not be suitable for minors. Some topics may elicit a trigger or emotional response so please care for yourself accordingly. The views, thoughts and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or feelings of Natasha Helfer or the Natasha Helfer Podcast. We provide a platform for open and diverse discussions, and it is important to recognize that different perspectives may be shared. We encourage our listeners to engage in critical thinking and form their own opinions. The intro and outro music for these episodes is by Otter Creek. Thank you for listening. And remember: Symmetry is now offering Ketamine services. To find out more, go to symcounseling.com/ketamine-services. There are also several upcoming workshops. Visit natashahelfer.com or symcounseling.com to find out more.