About Us
WE’RE A BOUTIQUE GROUP PRACTICE OF HIGHLY-TRAINED RELATIONSHIP AND SEX THERAPISTS.
WE ARE LOVERS OF CONNECTION, PROPONENTS OF PLEASURE,
AND STRONG BELIEVERS IN THE POWER OF COMMUNITY.
Our mission is to embolden our clients to radically rewrite the stories that hold them back – moving forward into a new lifestyle with sex and relationships that deeply fulfill.
OUR VALUES
CURIOSITY
We’re forever curious about the value systems and beliefs that guide you, gently digging into what makes you “you”, where that comes from and whether or not it’s serving you.
COMPASSION
You’re beautifully human. Not only do we see that, it’s simply a fact. You deserve experiences that fulfill, excite and allow you to embrace every ounce of your perfectly imperfect Self.
CREATIVITY
Hope and creativity are a stunning duo, ideating new paths that once seemed impossible. When we put our brains together, we can turn what feels risky into reality.
SOCIAL JUSTICE
Intersectionality is a top priority for us in how we approach our work. Social justice, both in and out of our practice, is an essential part of our values system. We are LGBTQIA+ affirming, anti-racist, and honoring of all different identities.
PLEASURE
Life without pleasure? Couldn’t be us. In a world where being frazzled has (sadly) become normalized, we reject the notion and choose to regard feeling good as a basic right – not a reward. And we’ll cheers to that, over and over.
OUR THERAPISTS
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LENA ELKHATIB, LMFT, CST (she/her)
FOUNDER OF AVID INTIMACY
RELATIONSHIP & SEX THERAPISTI work with people craving intimacy. People yearning for, looking for, and ready to reconnect with themselves, their partners, and their sexuality in a deeper, more authentic, more vibrant way. I work with people that simply won’t settle for a life that is anything short of turned on.
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RACHEL SCHWARTZ, AMFT (she/her)
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
INDIVIDUAL, RELATIONSHIP & SEX THERAPISTAs a Couple & Family Therapist, my goal is to help you live your most authentic and intentional life. In our work, we will dive into the experiences and emotions that have shaped you while understanding the patterns and process to create change. Using humor and warmth in each session, together we will pave the way towards your ideal life.
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ROSS MONDSCHAIN, LPC (he/him)
INDIVIDUAL, RELATIONSHIP & SEX THERAPIST
Our quality of life improves dramatically as we learn to show up more authentically in our personal relationships. We can always cultivate more meaningful connections, whether in an intimate partnership, biological or chosen family, or friendships. I understand how creating change can feel daunting or overwhelming and is best navigated with intentionality and solid support.
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RACHEL ZAR, PhD, LMFT, CST (she/her)
INDIVIDUAL, RELATIONSHIP & SEX THERAPIST
CLINICAL SUPERVISORSex and relationships can be among the most difficult topics to talk about. You deserve a safe, non-judgmental space to have these intimate and essential conversations. You deserve a therapist who’s truly curious about your perspective, your struggles, and your strengths—and who doesn’t shy away from the tough stuff.
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MORGAN FILMER, LMFT (she/her)
INDIVIDUAL, RELATIONSHIP & SEX THERAPIST EMDR TRAINED THERAPIST
Shame and stigma can permeate every aspect of our lives and make pleasure, love and connection challenging, painful and debilitating. Shame and stigma often mask something special and remarkable about a person; talents, identities, ways of living or loving that are unappreciated, misunderstood and even repudiated. I find that what sets us apart can also be our greatest strength.
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SARA MARSHA. NCC, LPC
INDIVIDUAL, RELATIONSHIP & SEX THERAPIST EMDR TRAINED THERAPIST
Seeking support to heal painful parts of ourselves can make us feel alone and filled with shame. It is heavily stigmatized to ask for help, and stigmas can follow us like a shadow in every step we take. However, one of our first steps towards healing is to feel safe to share our pain. Together, we can dismantle the stigmas, pains, traumas, and the shadow of shame that follow you, and help cultivate a life of healing, joy, and community.
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FAREABA MORADIAHANI, AMFT (she/her)
INDIVIDUAL, RELATIONSHIP & SEX THERAPIST
As a clinician trained in Integrative Systemic Therapy, I will be your guide as you navigate how your relationships and circumstances have impacted you. We will look at all of the varying parts of ourselves and how they interact with the parts of others through our therapeutic relationship. This includes facing our deepest selves with compassion, care, and empathy.
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LAYLA TAHMASSEBI, MA (they/them)
INDIVIDUAL, RELATIONSHIP & SEX THERAPIST
In our world, there is no shortage of messaging telling us how we should look, feel, speak, act, and be in relationship to others. Being a part of a community and engaging with the perspectives of others is essential, and so is understanding and honoring your own needs and desires. Let’s co-create a space where “should” is not invited, and be curious about what feels good and true for you.
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KELSEY BALDWIN, MFT (she/her)
INDIVIDUAL, RELATIONSHIP & SEX THERAPIST
Healing is not a destination, but rather a practice, and a place to return to again and again with new insights and meaning at each phase of life. In our work together, we will untangle what feels unmanageable, and in that process, create room for greater authenticity and access to your fullest expression of self.
