280: Michael Pezzullo – How To Navigate The Partying Ways Of Gay Life

There's a stereotype about gay men that all we want is sex, partying, and drugs. For some that might be true. For others we just enjoy the occasional dip into that space. But what happens when navigating the drinking, drug, partying way of being becomes blurred and we don't realize that we're on the verge of addiction? Joining me today to unpack this question is Michael Pezzullo, licensed Marriage and Family therapist, known as The Weho Therapist. We have a candid and supportive conversation about navigating sex, drugs, and alcohol during this pride season. About Michael Michael is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. He earned his Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University and a Bachelor’s Degree in media and communication from New York University. He works in private practice in West Hollywood, CA. In his practice, Michael works heavily with the LGBTQIA+ community--with a specific focus on gay men. He also has extensive experience treating substance use disorders. Michael has specialized experience treating those who struggle with “chem-sex”—the addictive process of using substances to heighten sexual arousal. He also created and facilitated an LGBTQ+ identity group for Impulse United, a global HIV advocacy nonprofit. Michael works from an attachment perspective while treating couples. He is certified in several trauma therapy modalities including: trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, attachment-focused EMDR and ketamine assisted psychotherapy. Michael was born and raised in the heart of New York City: Hell’s Kitchen. He now lives in West Hollywood with his husband and their two dogs. Outside of work, Michael is heavily involved in the local LGBTQ+ recovery community and is an avid plant collector. Connect With Michael Website Instagram Hey Guys, Check This Out! Are you a guy who keeps struggling to do that thing? You know the thing you keep telling yourself and others you’re going to do, but never do? Then it’s time to get real and figure out why. Join the 40 Plus: Gay Men Gay Talk, monthly chats. They happen the third Monday of each month at 5:00 pm Pacific - Learn More! Break free of fears. Make bold moves. Live life without apologies