Let’s Meet Jewish Person Of The Week – Jennifer Litner

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Chicago

What did you do Jewish growing up?

I was active in my synagogue’s youth group and attended events and retreats regularly, I was a machonik (assistant teacher) for second graders in religious school, and I celebrated holidays with my family.

What do you do now?

I am involved with the Chicago chapter of Jewish Women’s International (JWI).

Where did you go to school?

I attended Tulane University for undergrad, Northwestern University for my masters in marriage and family therapy, and Widener University for my masters of education and doctorate (in progress) in human sexuality studies.

What do you do for work now?

I am an entrepreneur, a sexologist, sexuality educator, and certified sex therapist. I am the founder of Embrace Sexual Wellness, LLC.– a wellness center offering psychotherapy (individual, relationship, and sex therapy) and sexuality education programming in the Chicagoland area.

What have you done throughout your career and how did you end up in your current role?

Before establishing Embrace Sexual Wellness, LLC., I worked as an associate therapist in private practice specializing in the treatment of sexual concerns. Prior to becoming a psychotherapist and sexuality educator, I trained as a Certified Peer Health Educator where I organized and lead programs on Mental Health, Nutrition, Safer Sex, and Stress Management at a university wellness center. In addition to my role as an educator, I trained as a post-test counselor, administering free HIV testing and family planning counseling to university students on a weekly basis. I also completed an internship in Global Education and Civic Engagement where I educated residents about safer sex practices and prevention of HIV in at-risk communities near Cape Town, South Africa.

Tell us more about Embrace Sexual Wellness, LLC.

Embrace Sexual Wellness LLC. is a wellness center located in Chicago specializing in sex therapy and sexuality education catering to individuals, couples, and families. Along with psychotherapy, Embrace Sexual Wellness, LLC. offers educational resources and sexuality education programming for adults and adolescents.

What do you do for fun/to relax?

I am very active. I enjoy strength training with friends, going for long walks with my dog (usually ending at the dog park) and exploring the various neighborhoods in Chicago. I am a New Orleans Saints enthusiast and love cheering for them on game days and traveling internationally whenever I can.

What is your favorite Jewish event in Chicago?

I enjoy attending JWI young leadership network events, particularly ones where I can engage in the community and learn something new. I am currently involved in their financial fitness cohort, which has been very informative and meaningful. I am grateful to have presented at their July 2019 event on sexual pleasure — empowering Jewish women is so rewarding!

What is your favorite hidden gem in Chicago?

If it’s hidden, then I suppose I’ll have to keep it under wraps. That being said, the brunch at Gather is phenomenal — highly recommend their hash or lox plate.

What is your favorite way to spend shabbat?

Relaxing at home with my partner and my pup after a long week. I also enjoy hosting friends for dinner to celebrate.

Top three things on your Chicago bucket list?

I cannot really say that I have a “Chicago bucket list” but I’ll share some highlights from over the years that I’ve lived here:

1. Running the Chicago marathon

2. Learning Trapeze at Foster Beach

3. Sailing on Lake Michigan

When the Tribe Gathers… there’s always laughter and lasting memories.