Laci Green: Sex Educator, YouTuber, and Mental Health Advocate
Laci Green is a prominent sex educator, former YouTuber, and now a clinical mental health counselor. She gained fame for her clear, sex-positive educational videos and has since transitioned into counseling and broader media work. This article explores her journey, impact, and evolution as a public figure.
Early Life and Background
Laci Green was born Valacia Nusheen Cyrus on October 18, 1989. She grew up in a Mormon household, which significantly influenced her views on sex education and feminism. Her upbringing played a crucial role in shaping her career as she sought to challenge and educate others about sexual health and consent.
Education and Early Career
Green attended UC Berkeley, where she began creating sex education videos. Her initial goal was to reduce stigma and increase accurate knowledge about sexual health. These videos quickly gained traction, leading to her rise as a prominent YouTube personality.
The Rise of "Sex +" on YouTube
Laci Green's YouTube channel, "Sex +", became a hub for sex-positive education. Her videos covered a wide range of topics, including consent, contraception, sexual orientation, and anatomy. The channel grew to over one million subscribers, making her a leading voice in online sex education.
Collaborations and Public Speaking
Green collaborated with organizations like Planned Parenthood and Discovery News. She also gave lectures at universities, further establishing her credibility and reach. Her work was recognized by Time magazine, which named her one of the 30 most influential people on the Internet in 2016.
Transition to Mainstream Media
In 2014, Green hosted Braless, the first MTV YouTube channel. This 12-week deal with MTV marked her transition into mainstream media. Her ability to engage young audiences with sex-positive content made her a valuable asset to the network.
Public Discussions and Advocacy
Green became a public voice in discussions about harassment and consent on social platforms. She wrote an open letter addressing a harassment-type prank by a fellow YouTuber, highlighting the importance of online accountability. Media outlets often sought her commentary on these issues.
Recent Developments and Career Shift
In recent years, Green has shifted her focus from YouTube to mental health counseling. She trained as a clinical mental health counselor and now practices therapy. This transition reflects a broader trend of online educators moving into formal health and therapy practices.
Podcasting and Media Work
From 2019 to 2022, Green hosted the podcast Indirect Message, which explored how the internet is changing society. The podcast allowed her to delve into topics beyond sex education, showcasing her versatility as a media personality.
Impact and Legacy
Laci Green's work has had a lasting impact on sex education and online advocacy. Her videos continue to be cited as accessible introductions to sexual health topics. Despite her shift to counseling, her influence remains significant in the realm of sex-positive education.
Statistics and Recognition
Green's YouTube channel surpassed one million subscribers, and she was recognized by Time magazine as one of the most influential internet figures. These achievements underscore her reach and influence during her peak years as a YouTuber.
Conclusion
Laci Green's journey from a YouTube sex educator to a clinical mental health counselor highlights her commitment to education and advocacy. Her work has left a lasting impact on sex education and online discussions about consent and harassment. As she continues her career in counseling, her legacy as a sex-positive educator remains influential.
Laci Green’s Influence on Modern Sex Education
Laci Green revolutionized sex education by making it accessible, engaging, and sex-positive. Her approach challenged traditional, often abstinence-focused education models. By leveraging YouTube and social media, she reached millions of young people who lacked comprehensive sexual health resources.
Breaking Down Stigmas Around Sexual Health
Green’s content tackled taboo topics head-on, from consent to LGBTQ+ issues. She used plain language and humor to make complex subjects relatable. Her videos often debunked myths, such as:
- Contraception misconceptions (e.g., "Pulling out is effective")
- STI stigma (e.g., "Only promiscuous people get STIs")
- Body positivity (e.g., "There’s no ‘normal’ way to look")
This approach helped normalize conversations about sexual health in a way that resonated with Gen Z and millennials.
Collaborations with Health Organizations
Green partnered with major organizations to amplify her message, including:
- Planned Parenthood – Advocating for accessible healthcare
- Discovery News – Creating science-backed content
- Universities – Delivering lectures on consent and relationships
These collaborations reinforced her credibility as a trusted sex education advocate.
The Evolution of Laci Green’s Public Persona
Green’s career has undergone significant shifts, from YouTube fame to mental health counseling. Each phase reflects her growing expertise and adaptability in digital media.
From YouTube to MTV: Expanding Her Reach
In 2014, Green hosted Braless, MTV’s first YouTube channel. This opportunity allowed her to:
- Reach a broader audience beyond her core YouTube subscribers
- Experiment with new formats, including interviews and panel discussions
- Collaborate with other influencers and experts in sexual health
Her work on Braless solidified her status as a mainstream sex educator.
Addressing Online Harassment and Accountability
Green became a vocal advocate against online harassment, particularly in gaming and YouTube communities. Key moments include:
- Writing an open letter condemning a harassment prank by a fellow creator
- Speaking at conferences about digital safety and consent culture
- Encouraging platforms to enforce stricter anti-harassment policies
Her advocacy highlighted the intersection of internet culture and real-world consequences.
Laci Green’s Transition to Mental Health Counseling
In recent years, Green shifted her focus from content creation to clinical mental health counseling. This transition aligns with her long-standing interest in psychology and wellness.
Why She Left YouTube
Several factors contributed to her reduced YouTube presence:
- Burnout from constant online engagement
- A desire to make a direct impact through therapy
- The evolving landscape of digital content creation, including algorithm changes
Green has spoken openly about the pressures of being a public figure and the need for self-care.
Her Work as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Today, Green practices as a licensed therapist, specializing in:
- Trauma-informed care
- LGBTQ+ affirming therapy
- Relationship and intimacy issues
Her background in sex education uniquely positions her to address sexual health within a therapeutic context.
Laci Green’s Lasting Impact on Digital Education
Even as she steps back from YouTube, Green’s influence persists. Her videos remain widely cited in:
- School sex education programs
- Online forums discussing consent and relationships
- Academic research on digital sex education
Her legacy demonstrates the power of online platforms in shaping modern sexual health discourse.
Key Takeaways from Her Career
Green’s journey offers valuable lessons for aspiring educators and creators:
- Authenticity matters – Her genuine approach built trust with audiences.
- Adaptability is key – She evolved from YouTube to podcasting to counseling.
- Advocacy drives change – Her work challenged stigma and promoted sex positivity.
As she continues her work in mental health, her contributions to sex education remain foundational.
Laci Green’s Contributions to Feminism and Online Activism
Laci Green has been a vocal advocate for feminism and online activism, using her platform to address systemic issues. Her work intersects with gender equality, body autonomy, and digital rights, making her a key figure in modern feminist discourse.
Challenging Gender Norms and Expectations
Green’s content often critiques traditional gender roles, emphasizing:
- The importance of consent culture in relationships
- The harmful effects of slut-shaming and victim-blaming
- The need for comprehensive sex education that includes LGBTQ+ perspectives
Her videos and public speaking engagements have helped shift conversations around sexual agency and gender equality.
Advocacy for Digital Safety and Anti-Harassment
As a prominent online creator, Green has firsthand experience with cyber harassment. She has:
- Spoken at conferences about online abuse and its psychological impact
- Advocated for stronger platform policies to protect creators
- Encouraged open discussions about mental health in digital spaces
Her advocacy highlights the urgent need for safer online communities, particularly for women and marginalized groups.
The Role of Laci Green’s Book, *Sex Plus*
In 2018, Green published *Sex Plus: Learning, Loving, and Enjoying Your Body*, a comprehensive guide to sexual health and self-discovery. The book expands on her YouTube content, offering:
- Detailed explanations of anatomy and physiology
- Practical advice on communication and consent
- Insights into pleasure and intimacy from a sex-positive perspective
The book has been praised for its accessible language and inclusive approach, making it a valuable resource for young adults.
Why *Sex Plus* Stands Out in Sex Education Literature
Unlike traditional sex education books, *Sex Plus* prioritizes:
- Body positivity – Encouraging readers to embrace their unique selves
- LGBTQ+ inclusivity – Addressing diverse identities and experiences
- Mental health awareness – Connecting sexual wellness to emotional well-being
Green’s book fills a critical gap in sex education literature, particularly for audiences seeking judgment-free guidance.
Laci Green’s Podcast: *Indirect Message* (2019–2022)
From 2019 to 2022, Green hosted *Indirect Message*, a podcast exploring the intersection of internet culture and society. The show covered:
- The impact of social media on mental health
- How online communities shape identity and relationships
- The ethics of digital privacy and data security
*Indirect Message* showcased Green’s ability to tackle complex topics with nuance and accessibility.
Key Themes and Episodes
Notable episodes included discussions on:
- Cancel culture and its effects on public figures
- The psychology of online harassment
- How algorithms influence content consumption and mental health
The podcast reinforced Green’s role as a thought leader in digital wellness and internet ethics.
Laci Green’s Current Work in Mental Health
Today, Green focuses on her practice as a clinical mental health counselor, where she applies her expertise in:
- Trauma therapy – Helping clients process past experiences
- Relationship counseling – Addressing intimacy and communication issues
- LGBTQ+ affirming care – Providing inclusive support for diverse identities
Her transition to therapy reflects a deeper commitment to holistic wellness, blending her background in sex education with psychological care.
How Her Past Work Inform Her Therapy Practice
Green’s experience as a sex educator uniquely positions her to:
- Destigmatize discussions about sexual health in therapy
- Help clients navigate consent and boundaries in relationships
- Address shame and guilt related to sexuality and identity
Her therapeutic approach is client-centered and trauma-informed, ensuring a safe space for healing.
Conclusion: Laci Green’s Enduring Legacy
Laci Green has left an indelible mark on sex education, feminism, and digital activism. From her early YouTube videos to her current work in mental health, she has consistently prioritized accessibility, inclusivity, and evidence-based advocacy.
Key Takeaways from Her Career
Green’s journey offers several lessons for educators, activists, and content creators:
- Education is empowerment – Knowledge breaks down stigma and fosters autonomy.
- Adaptability drives impact – Evolving with audience needs ensures relevance.
- Advocacy requires courage – Addressing taboo topics demands resilience.
As she continues her work in mental health, her influence persists in the ongoing fight for comprehensive sex education and digital safety.
A Final Word on Her Influence
Laci Green remains a pivotal figure in modern sex-positive education. Whether through her YouTube channel, book, podcast, or therapy practice, she has empowered countless individuals to embrace their sexuality, demand respect, and prioritize well-being. Her legacy is a testament to the power of education, advocacy, and authenticity in creating lasting change.
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