Amie Harwick's Story: 5 Shocking Facts About The Hollywood Sex Therapist, Her Murder, And Killer's Life Sentence

The name Amie Harwick, often mistakenly searched as "Annie Harwick," has become synonymous with a shocking tragedy that shook the entertainment and mental health communities. As of December 2025, the legal chapter of her brutal murder has finally closed, bringing a difficult sense of closure to her family, friends, and her former fiancé, television host Drew Carey. Harwick was not just a victim; she was a celebrated licensed marriage and family therapist, a published author, and a prominent voice in modern sexual health.

This article provides an in-depth look at the life and legacy of Dr. Amie Nicole Harwick, detailing her influential career, the disturbing events that led to her death, and the crucial, recent conviction of her stalker and killer, Gareth Pursehouse, ensuring the information is as current and accurate as possible based on the latest court records and public statements.

Amie Harwick: Full Biography and Career Profile

Amie Nicole Harwick was a highly respected figure in the field of marriage and family therapy, specializing in sex and intimacy. Her professional life was dedicated to helping others navigate complex relationships and sexual health issues, a commitment that made her a sought-after media expert and a trusted counselor in Hollywood.

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• Full Name: Amie Nicole Harwick
• Born: May 20, 1981
• Died: February 15, 2020 (Age 38)
• Hometown: Lansdale, Pennsylvania
• Education: She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from California Polytechnic State University, a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University, and a Ph.D. in Human Sexuality from the Institute for Advanced Study of Human Sexuality.
• Profession: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT), Sex Therapist, Writer, and Media Expert.
• Notable Work: Author of the book The New Sex Bible for Women: The Complete Guide To Sexual Self-Awareness and Intimacy (2014).
• High-Profile Relationship: She was briefly engaged to *The Price Is Right* host, Drew Carey, with their engagement ending in 2018.

The Rise of a Famed Hollywood Sex Therapist

Dr. Harwick established a successful private practice in West Hollywood, where her expertise in sex therapy and relationship counseling quickly gained her a reputation. She was known for her direct, compassionate, and non-judgmental approach to intimacy and sexuality.

A Media Presence and Bestselling Author

Harwick’s expertise extended beyond the therapy room. She became a recognizable face in media, frequently contributing to major publications like *Cosmopolitan*, *Glamour*, *Men's Health*, and *Elite Daily*. Her appearances on television shows and documentaries, including MTV's *True Life* and *Addicted to Sexting*, solidified her status as a leading public intellectual in her field.

Her book, *The New Sex Bible for Women*, became a foundational text for many, offering a comprehensive guide to female sexual self-awareness and intimacy. The book's success highlighted her mission to demystify and destigmatize conversations around sex, a crucial aspect of her professional legacy.

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Her work was particularly influential in Los Angeles, where she was known as the "Hollywood therapist," working with many high-profile clients and bringing a modern, progressive perspective to marriage and family therapy.

The Tragic Night, Stalking, and Gareth Pursehouse's Conviction

The life of the respected therapist was tragically cut short in a horrific act of violence rooted in a history of domestic abuse and stalking. The perpetrator was Gareth Pursehouse, an ex-boyfriend whom Harwick had dated about a decade prior.

A Disturbing History of Stalking

Amie Harwick had a restraining order against Pursehouse that had expired. However, the two had a chance encounter at a professional event just weeks before her death, which seemed to reignite Pursehouse's obsession. Friends and colleagues noted that Harwick was happy with her professional and personal life in the days leading up to the incident, unaware of the impending danger.

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In the early hours of February 15, 2020, Pursehouse broke into Harwick’s Hollywood Hills apartment. He violently assaulted her and threw her over a third-story balcony, resulting in her death from blunt force trauma. She was pronounced dead at Cedar Sinai Medical Center Hospital.

The Conviction and Life Sentence: Closure for Drew Carey

The legal process was lengthy, but the evidence presented by the prosecution was overwhelming. In September 2023, Gareth Pursehouse was found guilty of first-degree murder and first-degree residential burglary.

The final, definitive update came with the sentencing. Pursehouse was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole, ensuring he will never be released. This sentencing was a pivotal moment for those who loved her, including Drew Carey, who had been vocal about his grief and the need for justice.

Following the sentencing, Drew Carey stated that he could "finally move on" and "let out a breath," acknowledging the profound impact the tragedy had on his life. He also spoke of her enduring presence, saying, "She's with me always."

Amie Harwick's Enduring Legacy

Amie Harwick's legacy extends far beyond her tragic death. Her work as a sex therapist continues to influence the conversation around sexual health, body positivity, and healthy relationships. The Dr. Amie Nicole Harwick Memorial Project was established to honor her memory, focusing on advocacy and support for victims of domestic violence and stalking.

The case also sparked a national conversation about the efficacy of restraining orders and the dangers of stalking, particularly in cases involving former intimate partners. Her death highlighted the vulnerabilities faced by women, even those in prominent positions, and became a rallying cry for stronger protections against domestic violence and obsessive behavior.

By focusing on her incredible professional achievements—her Ph.D., her book, and her dedication to her clients—the world remembers Amie Harwick not just as a victim, but as a brilliant, compassionate, and groundbreaking therapist whose life was dedicated to helping others find intimacy and self-awareness. Her impact on marriage and family therapy, especially in the realm of sexual health, remains significant.