The Erotic Foundations Series -
Pleasure-Centered Learning Just for You.

This work can be deep, transformative and an opportunity for growth. I appreciate the facilitators of this training program in providing capacity with a space to be heard, listened to, and showing up authentically in a judgment free community environment. Being able to connect with like minded individuals is beautiful. I was able to move through some deep moments and grow at my own pace. I appreciate the individual and collective support throughout the training program. As a person of the Global Majority and sex working advocate, I appreciate the support of joining affinity spaces to reflect, integrate, face challenges and celebrations with vulnerability amongst folxs holding space for one another. This experience was enriching, helpful and brought many meaningful moments for my personal and continued exploration of my embodied path and in being able to work with and support others.

Studying at The Institute for The Study of Somatic Sex Education was a precious gift to myself. Remembering how to confide in the desires of my soft animal body has been a wellspring of wisdom that’s shifted how I relate to life, others and the more than human world in a way that feels evermore true to my flesh and integrity. I’ve deepened my skills in giving and receiving, and I’ve learnt how to unwind my shame and perfectionism while honouring the sacredness of my grief and the unknown along the way.

So many things set this institute apart from other somatic schools and one of them is their genuine approach to community care. They value and embody accountability, accessibility and acknowledge the dynamics of power and oppression. Also the ongoing access to community/peer support has been essential.

SSE is an ode to our spirits and a homecoming to our bodies. It’s building a culture of love and belonging and I’m grateful to be weaving with this community.

"My experience studying at the ISSSE was profound and life changing. The atmosphere was compassionate yet challenging and invited me to bring all of myself to the learning experience. Not only did I grow substantially as a person myself, but under the guidance of knowledgeable and experienced instructors I gained a wide range of skills and practices that I now offer my own clients with the same spirit of compassion and radical welcome."

This training incorporates a wide range of topics within somatic sexology. The curriculum is actively being expanded and adapted to reflect the progression of the field. Institute faculty supported me in exploring my unique interests, and celebrated diverse learning styles in a way that allowed me to excel in the program.

As someone who is neurodivergent and was new to somatics at the time of my enrolment, I was offered space to creatively find my own way of engaging with the content. I loved how I was encouraged to be myself and practise different ways to be in my body. This flexibility was framed within trauma informed ethics and core values for care-fully working with clients.

The Institute is committed to building bridges with other sex educators and aligned fields, which continues to enrich my professional development and networking opportunities after graduation.

"I believe that we learn many of these skills through community - being a part of an organization that practices a culture of deep commitment and repair at all levels has been inspiring. Being able to experience the SSE skills not only in class demos but also in relationships, is a huge part of what I have gotten out of the program. I have met some of my favourite people through the ISSSE and have mentors and colleagues that I learn from and look up to. The graceful facilitation of the teaching team has been a huge benefit to me.

It may be important for future students to know that Somatic Sex Education will draw heavily on your own unique crossroads of skills and special interests, no two SSEs practice the same or have the same skill set to offer. It may also be helpful to know that you can wait until CC4/CC5 to pick some of your electives, that way you can specialize in areas you are feeling drawn to which you may not discover until later on. You can choose to round out your own learning where you want to go deeper or feel the need for supplemental curriculum."

"The ISSSE program has been nothing short of transformative for me. Through its integrative approach, I've learned to truly inhabit my body and connect with my felt senses in ways I never imagined. This newfound embodiment has not only enhanced my well-being when it comes to intimacy and sex, but has also equipped me with invaluable tools to understand trauma, effectively communicate, and teach others how to do the same.
The program strives to continually update its content to address contemporary societal challenges, ensuring its teachings remain impactful and timely. Additionally, ISSSE also provides invaluable insights and techniques on respectful touch, emphasizing consent and communication in intimate interactions.
Overall, the ISSSE has empowered me not only to deepen my own embodiment journey but also to inspire and guide others toward a more connected and pleasurable way of living. It's more than just a program; it's a pathway to personal and sexual empowerment."