Victoria Gerdts

*Currently not accepting couples* Welcome! I provide support to individuals, couples, kink, and various polyamorous/ethically non-monogamous relational structures to guide them toward sexual wellness and health with an emphasis on communication, pleasure, and intimacy. I am also an avid advocate for combatting stigma in regard to STI/STDs, providing education on safe disclosures, and anxiety surrounding initial diagnoses. I've worked with folks with disabilities and chronic illness/pain, sex workers, survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, LGBTQIA+, reproductive and perinatal issues, and those struggling with cultural identity and religious trauma.

My modalities include a sex positive approach that is non-judgmental, compassionate, and empathetic. I use different interventions such as CBT, motivational interviewing, bereavement and grief support, mindfulness, meditation, and harm reduction strategies. I include literature, art, and somatic practices into the therapeutic space as well.

My background is in medical social work (currently have worked over 8 years in the hospital setting). I have worked at UCLA, the Los Angeles Sex Therapy Collective, and I've presented at many sexual health conferences and workshops. I have my Masters in Social Work and Public Administration from USC and my undergraduate degree in Political Science from Macalester College, MN.

My modalities are mainly trauma-informed. I am a strong believer in using different treatment types i.e. body scans, mindfulness, etc. to regulate our nervous systems. Numerous studies have shown that nervous system regulation is essential for healthy relationships.

When people experience trauma and/or unexpected life events, it changes our nervous systems and our ability to maintain or build safe relationships with ourselves and others. As a Death Doula and Latine therapist, I strive to provide an empathetic approach that encompasses intersectionality with nontraditional, feminist/multicultural, radical interventions. Expect a setting where I used multiple modalities and use science to rewire the brain. My environment is one of curiosity, warmth, and occasionally I'll be calling out different ways for my client(s) to improve.