AR: There are seemingly infinite ways to be employed in sexuality these days. Why are you studying to be a sex therapist? What kind of environment do you hope to work in when you're done with school?
ZW: Several years ago, I was a professional dominatrix. This played a big role in my decision to go back to school to pursue a career in sex therapy. Mostly, my clients would come in for a good ole fashioned whipping, humiliation, and bondage; but other times they would walk in and need someone to open up to, someone to confide in about their failing marriages, past experiences with sexual abuse, struggles with intimacy, etc. Not only did I learn the basics of hog-tying, CBT [cock and ball torture], and cross dressing in the dungeon; but I also learned that I want to be in in this type of helping profession. People feel comfortable expressing sensitive topics to me, and I am comfortable having these sentiments expressed to me and am passionate about exploring these issues. Eventually, I would like to have a private practice and become even more involved in advocacy and policy.

AR: There's a contingent of the new generation of sex therapists like yourself who in addition to being passionate about sex therapy as a profession, are not at all shrinking violets when it comes to their own sexuality. What kind of effect do you think having a public sexual life as a model/exhibitionist will have on your work as a sex therapist?
ZW: Well, there's not much that a client can share with me that will shock me! Many therapists are uncomfortable exploring topics surrounding sex. They are afraid to ask the 'difficult' questions. I think that my experiences as a dominatrix and
model/exhibitionist will enhance my ability to relate to my clients and help them. Also, I'm very comfortable in my own skin. I've witnessed that my comfort has inspired other people around me to be comfortable, too. I can't help but think this will translate when I'm working one on one with someone.

AR: Many nude models I talk to say that they feel like they are very much a part of the creative process when they work with photographers, they aren't "just" models. Do you agree or disagree with this? Why?
ZW: Oh, most definitely! Whenever I collaborate in any creative endeavor, whether it be modeling, dancing, singing, or event planning, I am an active participant in the creative process. There is a synergy. There's nothing more satisfying than brainstorming and bouncing ideas off another artist, and watching those ideas come together to give birth to something shiny, sparkling, and extraordinary.

Photo credits in order of appearance: Michelle Talich, Scott K, Marcos Rivera