Blog

Visit Ann’s blog to find inspiring and relevant stories and updates on Ann’s events.

Navigating the Crossroads of Religion, Sexuality, and Purity Culture: A Therapist’s Journey

Religion, sexuality, and purity culture have long been intertwined, shaping personal beliefs, societal norms, and individual experiences. While religion can provide a framework for understanding morality and ethics, it has also been used to enforce restrictive and harmful concepts, particularly in the realm of sexuality. Purity culture, a subset of religious teachings that emphasizes the […]

Navigating Identity: The Essential Guide for Mental Health Professionals

Standing in front of my MSW class over a decade ago, I found myself at the beginning of what would become a transformative exploration into the nuances of gender and sexuality. That presentation, far from just an academic requirement, marked the start of my dedicated effort to illuminate the critical importance of these distinctions in […]

Navigating Entrepreneurial Success: A Queer Female CEO’s Odyssey

AMR Therapy and Support Services Team As we step into a new year, I reflect on the unconventional path that led me to helm a thriving mental health business, as a queer woman. This entrepreneurial journey is a tale of overcoming distinct challenges, demonstrating strategic resilience, and committing to redefine success within an industry bound […]

Navigating Changing Relationships

In the ever-evolving realm of modern relationships, scholars like Dr. Helen Fisher, Dr. Justin Lehmiller, and Dr. Debby Herbenick shed light on the shifting attitudes toward love, sexuality, and connections. Recent studies indicate an increasing interest in non-traditional relationship structures, challenging established norms. In this changing landscape, my personal story from a queer non-monogamous household […]

Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Mental Health

Introduction In the rich tapestry of late 90s and early 2000s pop culture, “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” emerges not merely as a show but as a profound narrative powerhouse. It encapsulates themes of empowerment, resilience, and the essence of community. This series transcends traditional entertainment boundaries, weaving deep psychological insights and human experiences into its […]

Boundaries, Co-Regulation and Self Disclosure

Navigating the landscape of mental health within diverse and underrepresented communities demands a keen understanding of boundaries and co-regulation. In these unique contexts, where cultural competence is crucial, boundaries and co-regulation become not just essential tools but the compass that steers our therapeutic endeavors toward impactful and transformative change for our clients. Let’s delve into […]

Queer Faith, Inclusion, and Social Justice

Embark with me on a transformative journey that spans almost two decades. From my grad school days at Loyola Marymount University to the recent groundbreaking decision by Pope Francis to approve blessings for same-sex couples, there has been hopeful changes. This narrative is marked by challenges, triumphs, and a profound commitment to fostering understanding and […]

Empowerment on Her Own Terms: Reclaiming Female Sexuality

Introduction: Breaking the Silence on Female Sexuality In today’s world, the conversation around human sexuality is evolving. Yet, women’s sexual empowerment and self-expression remain in the shadows. My book, “Empowerment on Her Own Terms: Reclaiming Female Sexuality,” seeks to shed light on this important topic. It offers empowerment for women and support for the professionals […]

Embracing Your Unique Path in Therapy: A Journey of Personalized Healing

Welcome to the Dance of Therapy In the ever-changing world of therapy, the relationship between you and your therapist is like a beautifully choreographed dance. This partnership is crucial in navigating the complexities of personal growth and healing. It’s about finding a rhythm that suits you, one step at a time. I have carefully studied […]

Embracing the Spectrum: A Journey Towards Female Sexual Empowerment

My journey into sexual empowerment was deeply shaped by the unique family dynamics I was born into. Raised by queer parents who openly celebrated sexuality and pleasure, I grew up in a household where sexual expression was not just accepted but encouraged. This environment was in stark contrast to the conservative societal norms prevalent outside […]

Embracing a Sex-Positive Paradigm: A Call to Therapists for Progress

In the dynamic realm of therapeutic practice, a crucial paradigm shift challenges entrenched norms around sex education and client interactions. As a queer female therapist supporting marginalized communities, including those exploring non-monogamy, I’ve witnessed the transformative impact of embracing a sex-positive approach. In the 21st century, healthy relationships hinge on the unwavering concept of consent, […]

Diving Deep into the Heart of Pride: Navigating the Layers of Equality

In the kaleidoscope of human experience, Pride Parades emerge as vibrant spectacles, not just of celebration but of profound social impact. Delving into the intricate layers of their significance unveils a narrative woven with threads of acceptance, advocacy, and the relentless pursuit of equality. As we embark on this exploration, it is imperative to not […]

Bridging Perspectives: The Importance of Diverse Voices in the Transgender Community

Emmanuel and me. This is our last photo together. In the wake of Emmanuel’s sudden passing, a trip to Arizona to be with his sister Marissa took on a new meaning for me. Emmanuel was more than a friend; he was a brother to me for decades, and his loss left a profound gap. His […]

A Vision of Inclusivity and Growth in Mental Health

In 2018, driven by a vision to revolutionize access to psychotherapy, I established AMR Therapy. This online sliding-scale practice emerged from a deep passion to serve the queer, BIPOC communities, and those in non-traditional relationships, ensuring mental health services were both accessible and affordable. Today, as we traverse a world reshaped by technology and a […]