Understanding Sexual Trauma and Hookup Culture in Therapy with Gay Men: An Interview with Michael Pezzullo, LMFT

The Modern Therapist's Survival Guide with Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy

Understanding Sexual Trauma and Hookup Culture in Therapy with Gay Men: An Interview with Michael Pezzullo, LMFT

Curt and Katie chat with Michael Pezzullo, LMFT, about providing affirming and trauma-informed therapy for gay men. We explore common misconceptions therapists hold, the complexities of hookup culture, and how sexual trauma often shows up in subtle and misunderstood ways. We also look at how clinicians can better navigate issues of consent, drug use, and boundary violations when working with this population.

Transcripts and more information for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com!

In this podcast episode, we explore affirming, trauma-informed therapy for gay men

We invited Michael Pezzullo to the podcast to discuss the often-overlooked nuances of working with gay men in therapy. From hookup culture to sexual trauma, Michael breaks down what therapists need to understand to avoid causing harm or misinterpreting client behavior. His perspective emphasizes the importance of clinical humility, cultural knowledge, and a collaborative approach.

• Common Therapist Mistakes When Working with Gay Men
• What Therapists Need to Understand About Hookup Culture, Risk, and Drug Use
• Addressing Sexual Trauma and Boundary Violations in the Gay Community
• Helping Gay Men in Building and Enforcing Boundaries
• Navigating Presenting, Shame, and the “Velvet Rage”
• Creating a Safe and Affirming Space for Gay Clients
• Using Social Media and Influencers as Cultural Education
• Therapist Takeaways

Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement:

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined

Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits:

Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/

Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/