In this bold and insightful episode of Love Psycho, host Juan dives deep with psychotherapist Ric Mathews, LMHC, MSEd (he/him), to explore the layered worlds of sex, desire, and open relationships. From mismatched libidos to the emotional landscape of ethical non-monogamy, this conversation breaks down the myths and opens up space for truth, nuance, and self-discovery.

We discuss how cultural conditioning impacts desire, the emotional intelligence required to navigate open relationships, and how therapy can serve as a powerful tool in reclaiming your sensual and relational self.

This one’s for anyone who’s ever asked: What do I want? And why is it so hard to talk about?

What We Talk About:

🌡️ What causes mismatched desire in relationships
🔓 How to approach (and navigate) open relationships with care
🌱 Why healing sexual shame starts with self-understanding
🧘🏽 The mind-body connection in intimacy and desire
🧠 Insight vs. behavior-based therapy—and how both help
✊🏽 How identity, culture, and power shape our sexual expression

About Our Guest:

Ric Mathews, LMHC, MSEd (he/him) is a New York-based psychotherapist known for his integrative, holistic, and eclectic approach to therapy. Drawing from psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, yoga, and mindfulness-based frameworks, Ric meets clients where they are to help them deepen their self-awareness and shift behavior in meaningful ways.

He holds post-graduate certificates in Sex Therapy and Gender & Sexuality from the Institute for Contemporary Psychotherapy (ICP), as well as trauma-informed clinical care training from NYU. Ric is also certified in yoga and meditation, which he weaves into his practice. His work is grounded in cultural sensitivity and is explicitly anti-oppression, anti-racist, feminist, and anti-heteronormative.

Through his unique blend of clinical depth and somatic wisdom, Ric helps clients explore who they are, how they live in their bodies, and why they do what they do—especially when it comes to love and desire.

Resources & Links:

Learn more about Ric Mathews: https://www.nubodyandmind.com/therapy-home
Ric's Instagram: @ric_mathews
Follow Love Psycho on Instagram: @lovepsychopodcast
Share your thoughts or stories: lovepsychopodcast@gmail.com

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