In Unashamed – Notes from the Diary of a Sex Therapist (HarperCollins India, 2024), Neha Bhat delves into the complexities of sexuality with refreshing candour and practical wisdom, crafting a resource that is both accessible and profound. Drawing from her personal experience as a queer sex positive therapist and trauma specialist, Bhat has crafted a resource that is informative and useful. As sexuality remains a taboo subject in many parts of the world, this book serves as an essential tool for those seeking to educate, understand, and embrace the many facets of human sexuality. For those interested in Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE), Unashamed is a timely addition, rich with insights that transcend cultural boundaries and social stigmas.
Bhat’s approach is distinctively interactive, making this book more than just a guide; it’s a hands-on experience. One of the standout aspects of Unashamed is the inclusion of practical exercises, thoughtfully designed to prompt self-reflection, dialogue, and deeper understanding. Each exercise encourages readers to question and dismantle ingrained biases around sexuality, nudging them toward a more inclusive and non-judgmental mindset. What makes these exercises even more impactful is Bhat’s conversational tone, which makes it feel like she’s speaking directly to the reader. This personal touch fosters a sense of trust and connection, making it easier to engage with challenging or uncomfortable topics. The exercises serve a dual purpose: they’re therapeutic and educational, providing readers with tools to explore their sexuality in a safe and affirming way.
The book is also structured to allow readers to engage with real-world issues through compelling case studies. These case studies are carefully selected to represent diverse experiences, making the book universally relatable. They offer insights into the lives of individuals who have navigated challenging situations regarding their sexuality, shedding light on the nuances of consent, boundaries, and personal agency. Bhat’s handling of these case studies is sensitive and non-exploitative, allowing the voices of her subjects to resonate authentically. This empathetic storytelling grounds the reader in real-life scenarios, bridging the gap between theory and practice – a crucial component of effective CSE.
Bhat’s structuring of Unashamed adds to its appeal and efficacy as a CSE resource. Divided into clear, well-organized sections, the book covers foundational concepts of sexuality, dismantles myths, and gradually builds toward more complex themes, including gender identity, sexual orientation, and consent. This thoughtful progression makes the material accessible to newcomers and seasoned readers, facilitating a comprehensive understanding of the subject. The structure also allows for flexibility, making it suitable for personal reading and as a curriculum supplement for educators.
What makes Unashamed particularly effective within the framework of CSE is Bhat’s unwavering commitment to an inclusive and affirming perspective. Her writing acknowledges that sexuality is an inherent part of the human experience, emphasizing that everyone deserves access to information that allows them to understand and express this aspect of themselves safely and confidently. This perspective aligns seamlessly with the goals of CSE, advocating for a world where sexuality is not shrouded in shame but approached with openness and respect.
In conclusion, Unashamed by Neha Bhat is a transformative work that brings much-needed resources and perspectives to the field of Comprehensive Sexuality Education. Through practical exercises, relatable case studies, and a well-structured layout, Bhat has created a guide that is informative and deeply empathetic. This book has the potential to break down barriers, foster understanding, and empower readers to embrace their sexuality without shame. For educators, advocates, and anyone seeking a more open approach to sexuality, Unashamed is an invaluable resource.
