Ruth Westheimer, The Sex Therapist Known As Dr. Ruth, Dies At 96

Ruth Westheimer, the renowned sex therapist known as Dr. Ruth, has passed away at the age of 96. Dr. Westheimer was a pioneering figure in the field of sex therapy, and her unique approach to helping people navigate their sex lives and relationships made her a beloved and trusted figure in the world of sexuality and relationships.

Born Ruth Handler on June 4, 1928, in Worms, Germany, Dr. Westheimer immigrated to the United States with her family in 1956. She went on to earn a degree in music and education from the Teachers College at Columbia University, and later earned a master’s degree in marriage and family counseling from the University of New York.

Dr. Westheimer began her career as a sex therapist in the 1970s, and quickly gained a reputation for her unconventional approach to sex therapy. Unlike many of her contemporaries, Dr. Westheimer believed that sex should be a natural and enjoyable part of a healthy relationship, and she worked tirelessly to promote a culture of sexual openness and communication.

In the 1980s, Dr. Westheimer gained widespread fame as a radio personality, hosting a popular radio show on which she offered advice and guidance on sex and relationships. Her straightforward and humorous approach to sex therapy made her a beloved fixture on the airwaves, and she became known as “Dr. Ruth” to her devoted fans.

Throughout her career, Dr. Westheimer wrote several bestselling books on sex and relationships, including “The Complete Book of Things to Know About Sex” and “Sex for the Mature Woman.” She was also a frequent guest on television talk shows, including “The Tonight Show” and “Sally Jessy Raphael,” and was a popular speaker at conferences and seminars around the world.

Dr. Westheimer’s approach to sex therapy was shaped by her own experiences as a woman who had overcome sexual dysfunction and trauma. She was a survivor of the Holocaust, and her experiences during the war had a profound impact on her understanding of the human body and the importance of emotional intimacy in relationships. Her work was characterized by a deep empathy for her clients, and a commitment to helping them overcome their sexual anxieties and insecurities.

Throughout her life, Dr. Westheimer was a vocal advocate for sexual freedom and the importance of prioritizing pleasure and intimacy in relationships. She was a strong proponent of sexual exploration and experimentation, and she believed that sex should be a natural and enjoyable part of a healthy relationship.

Dr. Westheimer’s legacy extends far beyond her own work as a sex therapist. She helped to break down the stigma surrounding sexual discussion and helped to normalize conversations about sex and relationships. She inspired countless women and men to prioritize their own sexual health and happiness, and her work continues to be celebrated and respected by sex therapists and sexuality experts around the world.

In a statement, Dr. Westheimer’s family said, “We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our beloved matriarch, Ruth Westheimer. She was a trailblazer in every sense of the word, and her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched and the work she accomplished.”

Dr. Westheimer is survived by her three children, and her family and friends will celebrate her life and legacy in the coming days. As the world mourns the loss of this remarkable woman, we are left with a profound appreciation for her work and a reminder of the importance of prioritizing sexual health, intimacy, and pleasure in our own lives.