Meet the New Co-Managing Editor: Noelle Harris

Exciting news: Sex and Psychology is growing! Join us in welcoming Noelle, one of the newest members of our editorial team. We’re excited to introduce her to our readers and share a little about her background and what she hopes to bring to Sex and Psychology!

Noelle is a Licensed Master’s Social Worker (LMSW) who practices as a sex and couples therapist in Virginia. She works at a private practice, where she supports individuals and couples navigating challenges related to communication, modern dating, desire, sexual functioning, and intimacy. She is completing her sex and couples therapy certification through the Sexual Health Alliance and is working toward becoming an AASECT-certified sex therapist.

Q: What first sparked your curiosity about human sexuality, relationships, and sexual health?

I remember always being interested in human sexuality and sexual health. I have a distinct memory of being drawn to the topic. No one talked about sex. I remember being curious about what made sex and intimacy taboo and wanting to understand how this taboo cemented its place in our society. I also remember wanting to challenge this stigma.

Q: Was there a particular experience, course, or moment that inspired you to explore this field more seriously?

While studying at university, I formed friendships built on honest conversations about how past trauma shapes our ability to have healthy relationships. Through these conversations I realized how much of our past experiences we all carry into our present and future relationships. That realization led me to immerse myself in sexual assault prevention work as an undergraduate. I trained at a university prevention organization, facilitated campus workshops on intervening in and reducing assault, and served as a peer educator connecting my peers to counseling and reporting resources. Conversations with people from many backgrounds about their fears, feelings, and perceptions of assault deepened my commitment and ultimately led me to seek out work in trauma research. As a researcher, I read transcripts that detailed individuals’ traumatic experiences. A core question within those transcripts was how the individuals could move through their past experiences; to accept that they have shaped them without letting them limit their future. It was then I decided I wanted to be a therapist to support individuals as they grow towards their desired sexual self.

Q: What drew you to Sex and Psychology, and what excites you most about contributing to the platform?

I discovered the Sex and Psychology podcast while completing my undergraduate studies at the University of Michigan. I studied Psychology and Women’s and Gender Studies and was always looking for ways to meaningfully blend the two disciplines. Like so many people, I never received the sex education I deserved. The podcast became one of the few places (outside of reading and academia) where I was able to expand and deepen my understanding of human sexuality. I still remember walking the halls of the university listening to the podcast on the rise in cuckolding, struck by how rare it was to hear someone speak so openly on these topics. When I saw the opportunity to join a team I have always looked up to, I could not be more excited!

Q: Are there any particular topics within sexuality or relationship science that you’re especially passionate about exploring or sharing with readers?

Most of my time in the therapy room is spent with couples. I believe that the relationships we form with others can be some of the most meaningful experiences we have during our lifetime.

Q: What do you hope to learn or accomplish during your time as co-managing editor?

Every day in the therapy room, I see firsthand how much harm is done by the myths, misinformation, and silence surrounding sex and how much relief and confidence people gain once they have accurate information and the tools to use it. This role as a co-managing editor would let me take my clinical work so much further, not only would I have the possibility to re-engage research, but I would be able to assist in delivering the kind of clear, evidence-based education that reaches people well beyond my therapy room.

Q: What are some hobbies, interests, or activities that bring you joy?

I consider myself lucky to live in Chicago, and I do my best to make the most of everything the city has to offer, from jumping in the lake during the summer to trying new restaurants and coffee shops.

We’re thrilled to have you on the team, Noelle, and look forward to the perspectives, creativity, and enthusiasm you’ll bring to Sex and Psychology. Welcome aboard!