Our Community
Growing Our Community
At Intimate Wellbeing you can find sexual, sensual, therapeutic, and wellness products, but you can also participate in private and public forums (or just listen to conversations about sex, libido, feminine challenges, and more). We keep it fun, yet informative, with medical experts and professionals sharing evidence-based research, advice, inspiration and suggestions. Check the schedule here
Our Ethos
Empowering women is always at top of our minds.
We work with a diverse group of sexual wellness experts, including healthcare specialists, psychologists, sex therapists, and pelvic floor physiotherapists, who fit with our ethos. We encourage you to attend one of their seminars or visit their websites.
Our Growing Community EXperts
Dr. Carolin Klein
PHD Registered Psychologist/ Director
Dr. Carolin Klein is a sex therapist and a Registered Psychologist. She is co-founder and co-director of the West Coast Centre for Sex Therapy in Vancouver, BC. Her clinical work involves assisting individuals, couples, and other partnership configurations to build and strengthen sexual and relational intimacy; overcome sexual shame and anxiety; and bring more joy and curiosity into sexuality. She regularly provides workshops and presentations to the general public designed to increase sexual awareness, comfort and pleasure. She is also heavily involved in training graduate students and other professionals in evidence-based sex therapy.
Dr. LORI BROTTO
PHD Registered Psychologist, Professor of Obstetrics/Gynaecology, UBC
Dr. Lori Brotto holds a Canada Research Chair in Women’s Sexual Health, and dedicates her time to research, clinical care, teaching, and mentoring trainees in sexual health. She authored two books on mindfulness and sexual desire, and has co-developed an online sexual health program, eSense, which will be available soon!
Dr. Melanie Altas
Gynaecologist and Clinical Associate Professor Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, UBC
Dr Melanie Altas is the Director of the BC Centre for Vulvar Health at VGH and a Sexual Medicine Consultant at the BC Cancer Agency. Her current clinical practice is dedicated to vulvovaginal conditions, sexual pain disorders and menopause. Dr. Altas is committed to empowering women with education and tools to heal themselves. Aligned with her professional mission to promote patient-directed care, Dr. Altas regularly collaborates with community health care providers and patient partners, to translate knowledge into practice and improve access to health services for individuals with undertreated conditions.
Dr. Jason Winters
PHD Registered Psychologist/ Director
Dr. Jason Winters is a sex therapist and a Registered Psychologist. He's also the co-founder and co-director of the West Coast Centre for Sex Therapy.
When not waxing poetic about vacuums, shaking cocktails, or breaking himself on his bike or skis, Dr. Winters can be found sat across from his clients chatting about their sexual and relationship problems. Dr. Winters also sits on the Executive Council for the Society for Sex Therapy and Research, the preeminent clinical and research professional association for international experts in the area.
westcoastsextherapy.com
Dr. Laurie Mintz
Professor, Therapist, Author
Dr. Laurie Mintz is a feminist author, therapist, professor, and speaker whose life’s work has been committed to helping people live more authentic, meaningful, joyful—and sexually satisfying—lives through the art and science of psychology.
As an Emeritus Professor at the University of Florida, she teaches the Psychology of Human Sexuality to hundreds of undergraduate students each year.
She is the author of two popular press books—both written with the aim of empowering women sexually and both with published studies that women who read them enhance their sexual functioning: Becoming Cliterate: Why Orgasm Equality Matters and How to Get It and A Tired Woman’s Guide to Passionate Sex: Reclaim Your Desire and Reignite Your Relationship.
With this same goal of providing scientifically-accurate, sex-positive information to enhance female pleasure, Dr. Mintz also is oft quoted in the popular media and gives speeches nationally and internationally for both professional and lay audiences. In recognition of her sex-positive advocacy work, Dr. Mintz was named a 2023 Forbes 50 over 50 woman innovator.
Shirley Weir
Founder of MenopauseChicks.com
Shirley Weir introduces herself as a Menopause Chick. Now 55, her perimenopause journey began in her 40s. Sore boobs, sleep deprivation, depression and brain fog led Shirley to her doctor’s office, the book store and “Dr. Google,” but she was left feeling confused, overwhelmed and alone. Ten years ago, she launched MenopauseChicks.com onto the world stage to empower women to get curious about their health. As a fierce advocate for women’s health, Shirley teaches women hormone health, and also how to be their own best health advocate. Shirley is a TedX Speaker, a recipient of the YWCA Women of Distinction award, has tweeted for Oprah and speaks regularly to media. Her first book, MOKITA: How to navigate perimenopause with confidence & ease is an Amazon bestseller in women’s health. Her second book, FEEL AMAZING: An invitation to re-think perimenopause, menopause & postmenopause is a gift with purchase in retailers across the country in 2022 & 2023.
www.menopausechicks.com
Kim Vopni
Vagina Coach
Vagina CoachKim Vopni is a self-professed kegel maven and is known as The Vagina Coach. She is a certified fitness professional who became passionate about spreading information on pelvic health after the birth of her first child over 18 years ago.She is an author, a passionate speaker, and a women’s health educator. Her most recent book Your Pelvic Floor is a bestseller. She is also the host of the popular podcast Between Two Lips.Kim offers pelvic health programs and coaching for women and is also a menopause support practitioner.
shauna Burns-thomson
MSc., Registered Clinical Counsellor
Shauna Burns-Thomson is a Registered Clinical Counsellor specializing in sex therapy, trauma and related disorders. Founder of Fraser Valley Sex Therapy in the Fraser Valley, BC, Shauna assists individuals and couples from all over Canada as they seek to identify and release harmful sexual narratives while striving to have their juiciest and most pleasurable sex yet! Shauna is passionate about breaking down the stigma associated with discussing sex and pleasure, and can be found online @FraserValleySexTherapist or starring monthly on The Tea With KG podcast’s “Sex with Shauna” series. Shauna takes a holistic and trauma-informed approach to promoting sex-positivity, and enjoys working with a diverse and inclusive population.
Nasim Delfaninejad
Founder & Registered Physiotherapist
Nasim has advanced training and vast experience in Pelvic Floor physiotherapy and treatments of Painful Sex, Vulvodynia, and Vaginismus. She is passionate about improving Women's Sexual Health and is committed to remaining at the forefront of the pelvic health practice through ongoing education and research
CHERYL LEIA
PELVIC HEALTH PHYSIOTHERAPIST
Cheryl Leia has extensive experience in pelvic floor health. From pelvic pain to sexual challenges, she has solutions to help women regain their confidence.
Corinne Wade
Physiotherapist
Corinne is the proud owner and CEO of Kare Physiotherapy and has specialized in the field of pelvic floor physiotherapy for close to 30 years. She is a graduate of University of British Columbia's School of Rehab Sciences. Corinne has worked as a physiotherapist in a myriad of health care settings in both the United States and in Canada.
Corinne frequently lectures on many topics including pelvic pain, male and female incontinence, core strengthening and injuries related to pregnancy and male/female sexual dysfunction. She has special postgraduate training in treating both men and women with pelvic floor muscle dysfunction such as incontinence and pelvic pain. Corinne is one of the few physiotherapists in the Okanagan that also specializes in treating men. She is a registered physiotherapist and is a member of the Canadian Continence Foundation, the International Pelvic Pain Society and the Canadian Society of Intestinal Research.
sarah leong
Registered Physiotherapist (Pelvic Health and Clinical Pilates)
Sarah works in two private practice clinics in Vancouver, and she is passionate about treating pelvic pain in individuals of any gender. Sarah uses her background in biopsychosocial research and mindful movement to facilitate learning about all areas that can affect the pelvis. She believes that open discussions about pelvic health and exploration of what moves our pelvic floor (alongside how we can make it more fun!) improves overall wellbeing for her patients, and that normalizing pelvic treatments in physiotherapy clinics increases access to innovative health solutions.
Dr. Jess
Sexologist (PhD), author and television personality.
Jessica O’Reilly (AKA Dr. Jess) is an award-winning sex and relationship expert and the founder of Happier Couples Inc. which provides relationship education (online and via retreats) to couples across the globe. She works primarily with entrepreneurs and corporate executives to take their relationships from good to great — they know that positive strides at home equal positive gains at work and they’ve invited her to speak in 45+ countries at over 1000 events to date.
Dr. Jess’ dissertation focused on training teachers to deliver effective relationship and sexual health programming and she is passionate about accessible, classroom-based education. Armed with accurate information, confidence and communication skills, she believes young people can change the world for the better and she volunteers with students, teachers and social service organizations to empower students to embrace healthy, happy relationships.
Catch Dr. Jess’ on Global TV’s The Morning Show, PlayboyTV’s Swing and the weekly Sex With Dr. Jess Podcast co-hosted by her much-better-half, Brandon Ware. Or follow her mostly food, travel and dog pics on Instagram: @SexWithDrJess. And of course, you’ll find Dr. Jess’ advice in every publication from Oprah Magazine & Forbes to Cosmopolitan and The Today Show.
Dr. Alyssa Dweck, MS, MD, FACOG
Practicing Gynecologist
Dr. Alyssa Dweck is a practicing gynecologist in Westchester County, New York. She provides care to women of all ages; she has delivered thousands of babies. A graduate of Barnard College, she has a Masters Degree in Human Nutrition from Columbia University and her Medical Degree from Hahnemann University School of Medicine in Philadelphia, now named Drexel University. Dr. Dweck trained at Lankenau Hospital in Wynnewood, Pennsylvania, where she was Chief Resident in 1994.
She has been voted “Top Doctor” in New York Magazine and Westchester Magazine. She has a special interest and expertise in menopause and female sexual health. She is a consultant at Massachusetts General Hospital, Vincent’s Memorial Ob/Gyn Service and Adjunct Assistant Professor of Obstetrics & Gynecology New York Medical College.
Dr. Dweck is the Chief Medical Officer at Bonafide, which provides clinically studied, non-drug remedies for the natural symptoms affecting women throughout their lives.
Dr. Dweck is co-author of three books, including the latest The Complete A to Z for Your V (Quarto Press)
Dr. Dweck has appeared on The Today Show and Good Day LA. She contributes regularly to multiple in print and online media outlets. She is cohost of the podcast Business of the V.
Dr Shafeena Premji
MHA, MD, CCFP, FCFP, MSCPFounder, Owner and Director - Milestone - Menopause Centre of Southern Alberta
Dr Shafeena Premji is a family physician, entrepreneur, a passionate women's health advocate, artist, mother, wife, daughter and lover of fashion.
She obtained a fellowship in Women's Health from Queen's University in 2013. She received her Menopause Society Certification (MSCP) in 2015. She is the founder, owner and medical director of three medical clinics - Mahogany Medical Clinic, The Village Medical and her newest venture, Milestone - Menopause Centre of Southern Alberta.
As an entrepreneur, her mission is to offer the highest quality of comprehensive, evidence based, and equitable access to women's health care. She currently practices low risk obstetrics in SE Calgary and dedicates the rest of her clinical time supporting women in midlife, menopause and beyond.
Dr Premji serves on the Board of Directors of the Canadian Menopause Society (CMS) and the Medical Advisory Board of the Menopause Foundation of Canada (MFC). She has made media appearances on CBC The National, The Dose Podcast with Dr Brian Goldman, the Globe and Mail, Chatelaine Magazine, Yahoo Canada amongst others. She presents widely at conferences, lectures, and workshops to help educate colleagues, residents and the lay public on midlife women’s health.
Serena Haines
Certified Sex Coach & Somatic Sex Educator
Serena Haines has been helping people with Sex and Intimacy Coaching through BodyWork, personal coaching sessions, workshops, and live appearances for close to a decade. As well, you can find her hosting Just the Tip Radio Show on 88.1CKDU FM at 9pm on Friday nights.
Serena has a background in Psychology at Memorial University of Newfoundland and is a former Paramedic in Nova Scotia. Serena has also trained through the Institute forSomatic Sex Education in British Columbia as a Somatic Sex Educator, has studied Clinical Sexology through SexCoachU and has a Sex Coaching Certification (CSC, SXI) through the Sexology Institute of San Antonio. Serena is also certified through The Gottman Institute Level 1&2 for relational coaching.
Serena's mission is to bring awareness to the importance of sexual health as much as we have an awareness of mental and physical health. “Our sex energy is our life energy and is meant to be expressed and cultivated without shame, taboo or stigma...and a lot of fun!”
Dr. Teesha Morgan
Psychotherapist
Dr. Teesha Morgan is a Psychotherapist, published author, adjunct professor, TEDx speaker, and co-founder and director of the Westland Academy of Clinical Sex Therapy and Westland Therapy Group. Dr. Morgan specializes in Sex Therapy and couples counselling and has had a successful full-time private practice for over 15 years.
Sacha Rockliffe
Registered Clinical Counsellor, Sexual Health Educator, and Certified Clinical Sexologist
Sacha Rockliffe (she/her) is passionate about sexual health and wellness, and committed to providing inclusive, anti-oppressive, and trauma-informed care and education. She practices Feminist Therapy — an integrative approach that applies to clients of all genders — and recognize how individuals’ wellness and functioning are influenced by their social, cultural, and political identities and experiences. She specializes in helping clients with intimacy and connection, relationship concerns, and 2SLGBTQIA+ related issues.
If you are interested in working with Sacha, please visit www.sacharockliffe.com.
Sabrina Baldini
Sex Educator & Sex Coach
Sabrina is a self-described "sex-nerd" and lover of all things sexual health. She has an advanced degree in Sexual Health with a designation in Sex Therapy and has been involved in sex education for 10+ years. Sabrina has worked as an educator in Toronto and abroad teaching menstruation and period equity and has worked as a rape and trauma counsellor.
Over the years, Sabrina has learned that adults have just as many questions as children do about sex. She believes we all have a lot to learn and she has a lot to teach!
Her ambition and passion for sexual literacy is clear on her podcast - After Sex Ed.
ANDREA DEVON BERTOLI
Pleasure Coach and Sex Educator
In workshops, classes, and coaching, Andrea works with people to help them improve intimate communication, deeply explore their desires, and practice sensual connection in a grounded, holistic way.Her approach uses tools from Tantra, mindfulness, and yoga to help people find new ways of relating to their own body and others, and helps people rethink sex and pleasure. She is certified as a practitioner of Urban Tantra, a certified Sex Educator, and has a Master’s degree in Gender Studies from University of Hawaii at Manoa.
Justin Paulsen
Justin Paulsen (he/him) is a virtually based Psychotherapist, Couples Counsellor, and Clinical Sexologist. For the better part of his life, he has been learning and training how to help people of all genders and sexual expressions tackle some of the confusing and difficult parts of life. He specializes in areas such as sexuality, desire/libido concerns, relationship conflict and intimacy building along with erectile dysfunction and ejaculation issues.
He is passionate about helping people in and out of relationships find pleasure and connection in their
personal and partnered sex lives. He believes we are all complex, well-rounded human beings. and therefore. a holistic and integrative approach to finding pleasure and healing is most effective. His work is tailored to his client’s needs, based on how they identify as a person and what has or hasn't worked for them already.
Together with Justin, you can start to tackle some of your own sexual concerns, look at what’s keeping you stuck, and explore what possible ways there are to move forward.
You can check out Justin's practice at westlandtherapy.com.
Francesca Williams
is a Registered Nurse, Canadian Certified Counsellor and a Board Certified Clinical Sexologist based out of Kelowna BC.
She began her career as a labour and delivery nurse, where she became inspired to promote the mental health aspect of sex and reproduction.
Francesca wears many hats and continues to practice as both a nurse and a therapist, taking a solution-focused approach to her work.
Cindy Scharkey
RN, BSN, Educator, Author
Cindy Scharkey has been consistently exposed to the taboo and silence surrounding women’s sexuality over nearly four decades in healthcare as a Certified Childbirth Educator, OB/GYN nurse, and speaker. She is passionate about providing women with the education and self-confidence they need to find freedom on their own sexual wellness journey. As podcast host of Permission for Pleasure and author of Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden she aims to open the door to healthy conversations about expressing, experiencing, and enjoying our sexuality.
maureen mcgrath
RN, Continence Advisor & Sexual Health Educator
Maureen McGrath, RN, Continence Advisor, and Sexual Health Educator, is the host of Nurse Maureen's Health Show podcast, building on a successful 14-year career in broadcast media. She is also the author of Sex & Health: Why One Can't Come Without the Other. Her TEDx talk, The No Sex Marriage: Masturbation, Loneliness, Cheating, and Shame, has garnered over 35 million viewers, resonating with audiences around the globe. Based in North Vancouver, BC, Maureen operates a thriving clinical practice, providing care for patients with vaginal, bladder, and relationship concerns that commonly occur at midlife. A recognized expert in perimenopause and menopause, she also offers virtual consultations. A seasoned speaker, Maureen inspires audiences with her expertise in perimenopause, menopause, and intimate health, empowering women to achieve their best health.
Discover more at MaureenMcGrath.com
Dr. Veronica Li
Registered Psychologist & Co-Founder
Dr. Veronica Li (She/her) is a Registered Psychologist and co-founder of CAYA Health Centre. CAYA Health Centre is a multidisciplinary medical and allied health clinic focused on supporting all women, trans, and non-binary individuals. Dr. Li is committed to addressing the gaps in healthcare, specifically the inequities in healthcare access for women and those marginalized based on gender. At CAYA Health Centre, the goal is to provide gender-affirming, trauma-informed, sex-positive, and weight neutral care. In Dr. Li's clinical work, she supports individuals, couples, and groups with topics like sexuality, intimacy, and gender-identity. She works with concerns like sexual anxiety, shame and guilt, desire, sexual pain, sexual compulsivity, loneliness, trauma, infidelity, and dating challenges. Her approach is open, non-judgemental, and supports clients of all genders and identities.
kristen anderson
MA Relationships, Intimacy, Mindfulness
Kristen, founder of Eros Alive, brings over two decades of experience in marketing, human behavior, and executive leadership to her transformative practice. Following a family rupture and a 2022 cycling accident, she explored mindfulness, yin yoga, somatic therapies, neurofeedback, and sex therapy, discovering her passion for guiding others on their journey to well-being.
With a Master's in Organizational Behavior and Leadership, Kristen is a certified Yin mindfulness instructor, intuitive counselor, and Brain-Based Coach (Neuroleadership Institute). She also studied sex education with ISEE. Kristen believes in the power of sex as a tool for vitality and connection, integrating it into her practice. Her movement-focused, goal-oriented approach creates a non-judgmental space for emotional awareness, support, and growth. Beyond her professional roles, Kristen, a mom of three boys, is an enthusiastic mindful runner, cyclist, and novice golfer, gearing up for the 2024 Boston Marathon.
AURORA ROBERTS
Sex Coach & Educator
Aurora teaches about sex in a playful, soulful and hands-on way, offering well-honed skills in the sensual arts and creating a safe, supportive container for clients to discover their innate erotic gifts and capacity for pleasure and connection. Aurora has a Masters in Sociology, a Diploma in Counseling and is a certified Somatic Sex Educator and Sexological Bodyworker. She works with individuals, couples and groups of all genders, both online and in-person in Vancouver and Victoria BC. Aurora has successfully supported hundreds of clients to overcome sexual blocks and rediscover pleasure, boundaries and the healing power of touch.
goodsex.ca
Zoë Kors
Sexologist & Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapist
Zoë Kors is a sought-after thought leader of intimacy and sexuality. Her work includes Radical Intimacy: Cultivate the Deeply Connected Relationships You Desire and Deserve. She is the resident sex and intimacy coach and contributor at sexual wellness app Coral. Zoë is the former Senior Editor and Creative Director of LA Yoga Magazine and has appeared in The Washington Post, Newsweek, Cosmopolitan, Well+Good, Bustle, and many other publications.
Zoë holds a BA in Art History from University of Pennsylvania. She is a certified Sexologist, recognized by the American Board of Sexology, as well as a certified integrative somatic trauma therapist, certified Co-Active Coach, and certified Death Doula. Her training also includes dozens of programs and courses in sexuality and spirituality. Zoë is initiated in the Sri Vidya tantra lineage. Her work reflects her extensive study of Tantra, Zen Buddhism, Meditation, Yoga, Breathwork, and other Eastern disciplines, which she integrates with more process-oriented modalities of Western psychology and Evidence-based Coaching.
Zoë currently lives in Los Angeles with her husband, son, and dogs. She’s passionate about many things, the daily ritual of French press coffee, the New York Times, and attending L.A. Galaxy games top the list.
Catherine Roscoe Barr
Catherine is a neuroscience-based wellness coach and founder of The Life Delicious, empowering women leaders to reclaim their time and rediscover wellness. The Life Delicious is applied neuroscience for everyday wellness and joyful longevity – an evidence-based curriculum of sustainable practices, grounded in pleasure, to liberate ourselves and others from suffering. Catherine offers women's coaching circles, co-ed retreats, corporate workshops and keynote speeches; is a certified personal trainer, fitness instructor and coach practitioner; and writes about fitness, food and travel for numerous publications including Montecristo, Canadian Living, WestJet Magazine, BC Business and BC Living. She currently lives in Vancouver with her fabulous husband, delightful daughter and adorable dog.
Sarah Tomchesson
Sarah Tomchesson is a Certified Sex Educator and Embodied Intimacy Coach, host of the feminist podcast F*ck Yeah, and proud parent to a vivacious 9-year-old. Sarah’s career has been driven by a firm belief in the power of pleasure as a tool for healing shame, for real self-care, and for deep connection.
In addition to Sarah’s sex education work she is Director of Marketing for the iconic Magic Wand brand, and is honoured to sit on the Board of Directors as Vice Chair of SIECUS - Sex Ed for Social Change.
Amy Muise
Dr. Amy Muise is an Associate Professor of Psychology and York Research Chair in Relationships and Sexuality at York University in Toronto, Canada. She is the Director of the Sexual Health and Relationships (SHaRe) lab. Her research explores how couples maintain sexual desire and relationship satisfaction over time, navigate challenges, and sustain emotional and sexual connection. She has published over 130 papers and secured more than $3 million in research funding. Her work is frequently featured in major media outlets, including The Wall Street Journal and Time Magazine.
Learn more at www.amymuise.com or follow her lab @share.research on Instagram.
OUR Growing Community Partners
jacquie court
Founder, She2.0
Jacquie Court is a seasoned content creator and the founder of She2.0 and host of the She2.0 Podcast. She creates content and community to help guide women through their midlife journey including perimenopause and beyond. Through her podcast, video series and platforms, she connects experts with her audience to help educate, inform, and show women all the options available to them because she wants the world to know that we are more than menopause and our prime is our time to put ourselves first.
Mel & Suzie
Mel and Suzie are the hosts of the Sharing My Truth Podcast, an open and honest conversation that airs every Wednesday. Mel is a Gen X digital entrepreneur and married mom of two based in Toronto and London, UK. Suzie is a younger millennial actress, presenter, and content creator based in Toronto. They come together in their podcast to share their uncensored experiences and perspectives on life, love, trauma, and sex. They delve into the hard topics and never hold back, in the hopes of promoting understanding and fostering connections. Their genuine friendship allows them to be authentic and open about both positive and negative experiences, discussing how they all connect to each other. The goal is to provide a space where listeners can escape the frenzy of life, gain a new, positive perspective, and get a little closer to their own truth.
Maria Wu
Founder, MAUD Medical Clinic
“If we can embolden women to speak openly about vaginal health, we can move closer toward equitable healthcare for all.” - Maria Wu
Maria Wu, honoured with the Governor General's Awards for Women and Gender Equality in Commemoration of the Persons Case, serves as the president of the We Are MAUD Foundation. She partners with several medical facilities in Calgary, is a member of the Forbes Business Development Council, and acts as the Alberta Community Liaison for HPV Global Action.
Suzanne Noble
Podcast Host & Advocate for Good Sex in Later Life
Suzanne Noble is the host of the popular podcast Sex Advice for Seniors. In the series, she discusses her own experience with sex and—as an older person—brings years of experience to reflect on it in a witty, open, and enthusiastic way. The series is dedicated to helping older people find their way to a healthy and enjoyable sex life. Her main interest is in breaking down the barriers to good sex, challenging taboos and silencing those little voices that deny your desire. She has been featured in numerous women's magazines, the Guardian newspaper, TV, and radio. Alongside Sex Advice for Seniors, she is the co-founder of Advantages of Age, a not-for-profit dedicated to challenging the media narrative around ageing.
sexadviceforseniors.substack.com
tiktok.com/@sexadviceforseniors