Advocating with experience, sexual liberationalist, inclusion-first.

Alexandra Sutherland is…

Better in person!

What do you do and when did you realise this is what you wanted to do with your life?

I am a sex therapist and relationship counsellor. I work with individuals and partners. 

I’ve wanted to work in something to do with mental health since I started learning psych in high school. I’ve been interested in all things sex as long as I’ve been exposed to it and anything psychological. I was quite the science nerd and it turns out there’s a job for that!

What has been your biggest challenge in getting to where you are now and how did you overcome it?

I’ve definitely had my own personal challenges that have probably been the biggest. Mental health has always been an uninvited visitor here and there, and learning how to accept and see that being an asset rather than deficit is a large step for me. 

A big turning point for me was getting out of an abusive relationship some 7ish years ago. Massive turning point and challenge. 

What has been your proudest moment?

Ooh, nice one. I was really proud when I got told I was published and then interviewed again and published for the royal commission into mental health…that felt like instead of shame around my experience it was pride, in getting though it. 

Who or what is your biggest inspiration?

I’m very inspired by my clients…I’m constantly inspired by their own strengths and resilience I’ve heard some of the most exceptional and or horrifying life experiences that people have gone though and are able to see in a completely unexpected way. 

What is the best advice you’ve been given?

‘The best revenge is success’ 

What does a typical day look like for you?

A work day generally involves me waking up and petting my dog, doing all the regular getting ready things and listening to radio national on my way to work. It generally means coffee, emails, good chats with colleagues and getting into client sessions with a quick lunch.

I like to practice mindfulness and have a bit of a routine for the end of harder days. Most days i’ll get home and totally chill, or cook and hanging out with my partner and our doggo. 

Currently reading:

Multiple books all the time! Emily Nagoski 

Currently watching:

Gigolos haha, for better or for worse

Favourite breakfast spot:

7/11 lol, that says a lot about me in a morning

Favourite way to spend your down time:

Hanging with my dog, my partner, friends and some good food

Next holiday:

Noumea baby! 

MORE INFORMATION

Listen to Alex’s podcast episode here

Visit Alex’s clinic, Inclusive Therapy, here: https://www.inclusivetherapyvic.com.au/

If you’re struggling and in need of urgent crisis support, please reach out to Lifeline on 13 11 14