Vena Blanchard, DHS
Dr. Blanchard began her academic studies in the field of child development. Courses in early childhood education initiated her lifelong interest in learning theory and creating the best environments for learning. Her studies and interests eventually led her to the field of psychology and the development of her counseling practice.
Dr. Blanchard clinical skills were developed and honed through formal education and years of clinical supervision. She had the benefit of studying with dozens of highly-skilled therapists, including some of the most highly regarded sex therapists in the world. These master clinicians imparted wisdom and insight, as well as scientific information and research skills. She is certified in both Sex Education and Clinical Sexology, and she completed her Doctorate in Human Sexuality, at the Institute for the Advance Study of Human Sexuality
Dr. Blanchard is a professional member of the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT); President of the International Professional Surrogates Association; a former Board member of the Society for the Scientific Study of Sexuality (SSSS); and has been elected to the office in every professional organization she has joined. Visit her website DrVenaBlanchard.com
Lynda Smith Hoggan, MPH
Lynda Hoggan is a public health educator who has taught human sexuality for over 30 years. Her background includes a Master’s Degree in Public Health from UCLA. She started in the field as a volunteer counselor with the Los Angeles Sex Information Helpline and eventually became Director of the organization. She has worked in HIV/AIDS risk reduction with populations such as people with hemophilia and HIV/AIDS, sex workers, substance abusers, and homeless youth. She has taught natural family planning to women and breast and pelvic exams to medical students. Currently, Lynda teaches health and human sexuality at Mt. San Antonio College in Southern California.
Her philosophy of sexuality is that it is a gift of nature that has been co-opted by religious guilt and marketing greed. She believes that with accurate information, people can reduce the much-hyped ‘risks’ of sex to enjoy their own bodies and achieve the deep intimacy of erotic relationship. To her, fear of sex is a multi-faceted public health crisis in our culture that keeps people from seeking pleasure or from seeking help when there are problems. She believes that teaching ‘sexual literacy’ is a road to empowerment.
Lynda has also published poetry, newspaper articles and academic journal articles, and books about relationships, health, food and sexuality. Visit her website LyndaSmithHoggan.com