Photo of Margaret Berg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wisconsin
Margaret Berg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, AASECT , CST
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53705
Margaret is an expert relationship/sex therapist and workshop presenter. She is an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist and Advanced Certified Imago Relationship Therapist. Discover what lies underneath relationship conflict and how to resolve it. Do you desire to: feel alive/connected in relationship; want to turn conflict into growth, find out why you criticize/push your partner away, while longing for them to be closer, explore desire, pleasure, eroticism or sexual functioning; be appreciated by your partner; have control over your sex vs it having control over you; explore why sex is synonymous with pain/anxiety/emptiness/shame?
Margaret is an expert relationship/sex therapist and workshop presenter. She is an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist and Advanced Certified Imago Relationship Therapist. Discover what lies underneath relationship conflict and how to resolve it. Do you desire to: feel alive/connected in relationship; want to turn conflict into growth, find out why you criticize/push your partner away, while longing for them to be closer, explore desire, pleasure, eroticism or sexual functioning; be appreciated by your partner; have control over your sex vs it having control over you; explore why sex is synonymous with pain/anxiety/emptiness/shame?
(906) 662-4886 View (906) 662-4886
Photo of Tiffany L Verhasselt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Tiffany L Verhasselt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Montello, WI 53949  (Online Only)
As a Board Certified Sexologist, I specialize in relationships, intimacy, and sex therapy.
Working completely online, I create a safe space for individuals and couples to navigate life changes with an emphasis on intimacy and sexual concerns. I work to empower individuals and couples to explore intimacy and sexuality in a positive way to instill self-understanding and help clients to adopt new attitudes and feelings towards life, intimacy, desire, passion, and sex. I work from the approach that you are a whole person and the aim of therapy is dive into all aspects of who you are and the intersects that shape your perception of self and the world.
As a Board Certified Sexologist, I specialize in relationships, intimacy, and sex therapy.
Working completely online, I create a safe space for individuals and couples to navigate life changes with an emphasis on intimacy and sexual concerns. I work to empower individuals and couples to explore intimacy and sexuality in a positive way to instill self-understanding and help clients to adopt new attitudes and feelings towards life, intimacy, desire, passion, and sex. I work from the approach that you are a whole person and the aim of therapy is dive into all aspects of who you are and the intersects that shape your perception of self and the world.
(608) 597-2693 View (608) 597-2693
Photo of Heather Meggers-Wright, Psychologist in Wisconsin
Heather Meggers-Wright
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wausau, WI 54401  (Online Only)
I work with clients in a wide variety of problem areas including sex and intimacy (either couples or individual therapy), anxiety and fear, weight and self-esteem, depression and bipolar, and trauma (sexual;combat), among others. My clients find me to be warm and caring, with a tendency to bring in humor. We work together to create achievable goals and take active steps to reach them. I can see clients in person, or on a telemental health platform to eligible clients in Wisconsin.
I work with clients in a wide variety of problem areas including sex and intimacy (either couples or individual therapy), anxiety and fear, weight and self-esteem, depression and bipolar, and trauma (sexual;combat), among others. My clients find me to be warm and caring, with a tendency to bring in humor. We work together to create achievable goals and take active steps to reach them. I can see clients in person, or on a telemental health platform to eligible clients in Wisconsin.
(715) 802-4584 View (715) 802-4584
Photo of Laurie Lawrenz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wisconsin
Laurie Lawrenz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC, LSW, CDVTS, CSOTS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sheboygan, WI 53081
I believe that there is something positive to find in all situations. Therapy should be a positive step to change in life and I believe all clients have the power of change within them. I will help you or your loved one to find that power within and make positive changes in your life. I am a Substance Abuse Professional and I am certified to perform DOT assessments for positive alcohol and drug tests. I provide counseling for any type of addiction (heroin, alcohol, sex, Internet) in a non-judgmental manner.
I believe that there is something positive to find in all situations. Therapy should be a positive step to change in life and I believe all clients have the power of change within them. I will help you or your loved one to find that power within and make positive changes in your life. I am a Substance Abuse Professional and I am certified to perform DOT assessments for positive alcohol and drug tests. I provide counseling for any type of addiction (heroin, alcohol, sex, Internet) in a non-judgmental manner.
(920) 482-6529 View (920) 482-6529
Photo of Siri Peterson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Wisconsin
Siri Peterson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53703
As a sex therapist, I also create space for clients to get to know their and their partners' sexuality and give them the tools to create a more satisfying sexual connection.
My clients are individuals and relationships that are curious about what a different and more fulfilling future might look like. I believe that every person's identity and experience is complex and worth understanding deeply. I also believe that everyone has a unique and powerful set of skills and strengths (even if they don't know it). Whether you are looking to connect with yourself or your loved ones, heal from trauma, relieve anxiety/depression symptoms, or move through a challenging life transition, I will meet you with an authentic therapeutic presence that welcomes creativity, exploration, and growth.
As a sex therapist, I also create space for clients to get to know their and their partners' sexuality and give them the tools to create a more satisfying sexual connection.
My clients are individuals and relationships that are curious about what a different and more fulfilling future might look like. I believe that every person's identity and experience is complex and worth understanding deeply. I also believe that everyone has a unique and powerful set of skills and strengths (even if they don't know it). Whether you are looking to connect with yourself or your loved ones, heal from trauma, relieve anxiety/depression symptoms, or move through a challenging life transition, I will meet you with an authentic therapeutic presence that welcomes creativity, exploration, and growth.
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Photo of Coltan Schoenike, Marriage & Family Therapist in Wisconsin
Coltan Schoenike
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LAMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Menomonie, WI 54751
Waitlist for new clients
I trained in one of the longest-running accredited marriage and family therapy programs in the United States and furthered that education with an additional graduate certificate in Sex Therapy.
Growing up in a small, midwestern town, I came to realize that we don't get nearly enough information on how to properly engage with one another in our relationships in healthy and fulfilling ways. As a queer and trans person, the lack of information was exponentially worse. As a therapist, I want to be there for people who recognize this and want to have better relationships with others and with themselves. I also want to be there especially for my fellow queer and transgender people given how lonely I felt thinking that there were no therapists like me. While I didn't get that, I want to BE that for others.
I trained in one of the longest-running accredited marriage and family therapy programs in the United States and furthered that education with an additional graduate certificate in Sex Therapy.
Growing up in a small, midwestern town, I came to realize that we don't get nearly enough information on how to properly engage with one another in our relationships in healthy and fulfilling ways. As a queer and trans person, the lack of information was exponentially worse. As a therapist, I want to be there for people who recognize this and want to have better relationships with others and with themselves. I also want to be there especially for my fellow queer and transgender people given how lonely I felt thinking that there were no therapists like me. While I didn't get that, I want to BE that for others.
(715) 240-4944 View (715) 240-4944
Photo of Jessica J. Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wisconsin
Jessica J. Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53217  (Online Only)
My extensive training in Sex Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy informs my work.
The therapeutic relationship can be a very important one and, like any other healthy relationship, it is based on mutual respect, trust and commitment. I approach our work together with a nonjudgmental stance. I will meet you wherever you are in your life's journey and honor your unique strengths. I support clients in creating their most fulfilling lives, in line with their values and goals. I incorporate mindfulness into a collaborative and client-centered process and employ an honest, direct communication style combined with warmth, compassion, and humor. I strive for a balance of embracing both change and acceptance.
My extensive training in Sex Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy informs my work.
The therapeutic relationship can be a very important one and, like any other healthy relationship, it is based on mutual respect, trust and commitment. I approach our work together with a nonjudgmental stance. I will meet you wherever you are in your life's journey and honor your unique strengths. I support clients in creating their most fulfilling lives, in line with their values and goals. I incorporate mindfulness into a collaborative and client-centered process and employ an honest, direct communication style combined with warmth, compassion, and humor. I strive for a balance of embracing both change and acceptance.
(262) 214-3769 View (262) 214-3769
Photo of Kristi Blaney, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Kristi Blaney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53705
Areas I have special training include: Couples/marriage/premarital counseling, issues involving Sexuality and Intimacy, Self-esteem, Body Image, Mindfulness, Family/Parenting/Coparenting, and Pregnancy/Postpartum.
LOVE! It is one of those words that either makes you giddy with joy or a little squirmy in your chair. Love is one of the things we long for most in our lives. Whether you struggle with romantic love, family love, agape love or even self-love, I would like to help. I provide therapy options in both Madison and Janesville to help make sure you have an option that is close to home. I aim to provide a warm space to help you feel at ease while you work through the toughest areas of your life.
Areas I have special training include: Couples/marriage/premarital counseling, issues involving Sexuality and Intimacy, Self-esteem, Body Image, Mindfulness, Family/Parenting/Coparenting, and Pregnancy/Postpartum.
LOVE! It is one of those words that either makes you giddy with joy or a little squirmy in your chair. Love is one of the things we long for most in our lives. Whether you struggle with romantic love, family love, agape love or even self-love, I would like to help. I provide therapy options in both Madison and Janesville to help make sure you have an option that is close to home. I aim to provide a warm space to help you feel at ease while you work through the toughest areas of your life.
(608) 390-3439 View (608) 390-3439
Photo of Cherie A Katt, Mental Health Counselor License in Wisconsin
Cherie A Katt
Mental Health Counselor License, LMHC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53211  (Online Only)
As a certified sex therapist, rooted in soul work and a psychology of women, I will help you reclaim a sense of vitality, a sense of being at home in your own skin.
Therapy is a place for you to name areas of pain, a place to feel without judgment, and a place to reclaim what is yours. Shame is the source of so much of this pain and judgment, convincing you that you are broken. Shame is often so intertwined with sexuality because of the societal silence around the topic. Perhaps sex is painful, perhaps you are more aware of others desires than your own, perhaps you feel empty from running on fumes and enjoyment is the last thing on your mind. Whatever the reason, engaging your sexual health can help overall wellness, and ultimately be the way back into relationship with yourself!
As a certified sex therapist, rooted in soul work and a psychology of women, I will help you reclaim a sense of vitality, a sense of being at home in your own skin.
Therapy is a place for you to name areas of pain, a place to feel without judgment, and a place to reclaim what is yours. Shame is the source of so much of this pain and judgment, convincing you that you are broken. Shame is often so intertwined with sexuality because of the societal silence around the topic. Perhaps sex is painful, perhaps you are more aware of others desires than your own, perhaps you feel empty from running on fumes and enjoyment is the last thing on your mind. Whatever the reason, engaging your sexual health can help overall wellness, and ultimately be the way back into relationship with yourself!
(414) 441-5247 View (414) 441-5247
Photo of Ashley Floyd, Marriage & Family Therapist in Wisconsin
Ashley Floyd
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53711  (Online Only)
You deserve a space you can feel comfortable talking about all aspects of sex and relationships.
My clients often want to gain deep insights into themselves and use these insights to see shifts such as greater self-compassion, less anxiety, and more fulfillment and authenticity. Whether processing trauma or difficult relationships, navigating their sexual identity (queer, non-monogamous, kinky, etc.), or working through everyday struggles, my clients seek an understanding, informed, and non-judgmental place that can help them truly get to know themselves.
You deserve a space you can feel comfortable talking about all aspects of sex and relationships.
My clients often want to gain deep insights into themselves and use these insights to see shifts such as greater self-compassion, less anxiety, and more fulfillment and authenticity. Whether processing trauma or difficult relationships, navigating their sexual identity (queer, non-monogamous, kinky, etc.), or working through everyday struggles, my clients seek an understanding, informed, and non-judgmental place that can help them truly get to know themselves.
(608) 447-6997 View (608) 447-6997
Photo of Joseph Kindred, Marriage & Family Therapist in Wisconsin
Joseph Kindred
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Menomonie, WI 54751
I can help you come up with strategies and tools for anxiety, grief, depression and relationship issues. I specialize in ADHD and Autism needs. I respect you for who you are and support your growing and changing. You may be a therapist yourself, or have done a lot of therapy already - and need to find a safer space to process your feelings. I work with cultural grief and cultural awareness. I work with medical trauma, relationship challenges, and deep grief / frustration/ loneliness/anxiety/CPTSD. I’m trained in individual and relationship counseling, and am also a sex therapist, if that topic needs to be discussed.
I can help you come up with strategies and tools for anxiety, grief, depression and relationship issues. I specialize in ADHD and Autism needs. I respect you for who you are and support your growing and changing. You may be a therapist yourself, or have done a lot of therapy already - and need to find a safer space to process your feelings. I work with cultural grief and cultural awareness. I work with medical trauma, relationship challenges, and deep grief / frustration/ loneliness/anxiety/CPTSD. I’m trained in individual and relationship counseling, and am also a sex therapist, if that topic needs to be discussed.
(715) 814-9847 View (715) 814-9847
Photo of Susan McDonald-Conroy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Wisconsin
Susan McDonald-Conroy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Onalaska, WI 54650
Are you uncertain about your relationship or sex life? You may feel disconnected from your partner, wondering if you can make it work after infidelity. You are realizing you just want to feel better, one way or another. It’s time. Doing work on your relationship takes some grit and most people wait too long. I'll roll up my sleeves with you and be your guide. When relationships grow stagnant or negative, we suffer. Learn to find healthy ways to communicate and create authentic connection.
Are you uncertain about your relationship or sex life? You may feel disconnected from your partner, wondering if you can make it work after infidelity. You are realizing you just want to feel better, one way or another. It’s time. Doing work on your relationship takes some grit and most people wait too long. I'll roll up my sleeves with you and be your guide. When relationships grow stagnant or negative, we suffer. Learn to find healthy ways to communicate and create authentic connection.
(608) 597-6804 View (608) 597-6804
Photo of Beth Ryland, Marriage & Family Therapist in Wisconsin
Beth Ryland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Hudson, WI 54016  (Online Only)
Despite being a professional by day, you have no idea how your life at home started feeling so chaotic and out of control. You and your partner don’t communicate like you used to and you certainly don’t have fun together anymore. Life is consumed by kids, sports, work, and errands. You aren’t having as much sex as you used to either. It feels like you lost yourself along the way and you don’t feel heard or understood by your partner when you try to talk. Things always end up in a fight. You’re exhausted and irritable and you feel alone. Friends and family mean well but they don’t get it. Not really. You need help.
Despite being a professional by day, you have no idea how your life at home started feeling so chaotic and out of control. You and your partner don’t communicate like you used to and you certainly don’t have fun together anymore. Life is consumed by kids, sports, work, and errands. You aren’t having as much sex as you used to either. It feels like you lost yourself along the way and you don’t feel heard or understood by your partner when you try to talk. Things always end up in a fight. You’re exhausted and irritable and you feel alone. Friends and family mean well but they don’t get it. Not really. You need help.
(763) 703-2341 View (763) 703-2341
Photo of Carise Rotach, Marriage & Family Therapist in Wisconsin
Carise Rotach
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53701  (Online Only)
My focus is in sexuality and relationships.
I operate from a sex positive theoretical background; free of shame and pleasure-focused. I have a special focus on those recovering from religious trauma and/or purity culture narratives. Additionally, I offer community education on body image and sexuality. I am also an AAMFT Approved Clinical Supervisor and am accepting individual supervisees for virtual supervision from MN, WI, OH, MI, ND, IL, CT, TX, CA, and FL.
My focus is in sexuality and relationships.
I operate from a sex positive theoretical background; free of shame and pleasure-focused. I have a special focus on those recovering from religious trauma and/or purity culture narratives. Additionally, I offer community education on body image and sexuality. I am also an AAMFT Approved Clinical Supervisor and am accepting individual supervisees for virtual supervision from MN, WI, OH, MI, ND, IL, CT, TX, CA, and FL.
(763) 343-7195 View (763) 343-7195
Photo of Dr. April Brown - SW Therapists/Retreats, Counselor in Wisconsin
Dr. April Brown - SW Therapists/Retreats
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, CST, NCC, BCTMHC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53215
I, am a Licensed Mental Health Christian Counselor, Board Certified-TeleMental Health Provider, Certified Sex Therapist, a National Certified Counselor, and a Florida Qualified Supervisor.
Are you wanting more intimacy? Are you and your partner constantly arguing and not connecting? Are you struggling with your mental health, your relationships, spirituality, and sex and you need someone to talk to and find some resources and solutions. If you need solutions, I can help. I offer TeleMental Health, Online Counseling, EMDR, Retreats and Gottman services for individuals, couples, and families. I specialize in anxiety, relationships, communication, intimacy, and sex. I offer free resources & information through my website, books, and through my podcast called "Bringing Intimacy Back".
I, am a Licensed Mental Health Christian Counselor, Board Certified-TeleMental Health Provider, Certified Sex Therapist, a National Certified Counselor, and a Florida Qualified Supervisor.
Are you wanting more intimacy? Are you and your partner constantly arguing and not connecting? Are you struggling with your mental health, your relationships, spirituality, and sex and you need someone to talk to and find some resources and solutions. If you need solutions, I can help. I offer TeleMental Health, Online Counseling, EMDR, Retreats and Gottman services for individuals, couples, and families. I specialize in anxiety, relationships, communication, intimacy, and sex. I offer free resources & information through my website, books, and through my podcast called "Bringing Intimacy Back".
(239) 565-6921 View (239) 565-6921
Photo of Peter Hindley, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Wisconsin
Peter Hindley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, ALMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53204
My focus is working with couples and individuals looking to improve the quality of their relationships. I am passionate about sex positivity and working to unlearn shame and embarrassment that may be ingrained from past experiences. I aim to facilitate open communication between couples to ensure both parties are getting their needs met. When working with individual clients, I can help guide you in advocating for what you need in your relationships with others. I am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, and specialize in working with queer individuals and couples. I am kink, poly, and sex-worker affirming.
My focus is working with couples and individuals looking to improve the quality of their relationships. I am passionate about sex positivity and working to unlearn shame and embarrassment that may be ingrained from past experiences. I aim to facilitate open communication between couples to ensure both parties are getting their needs met. When working with individual clients, I can help guide you in advocating for what you need in your relationships with others. I am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, and specialize in working with queer individuals and couples. I am kink, poly, and sex-worker affirming.
(773) 839-9524 View (773) 839-9524
Photo of Renelle E Nelson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Wisconsin
Renelle E Nelson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mequon, WI 53097
With over 12 years of expertise in couples therapy and specialized certifications in sex and infidelity recovery, I offer holistic, tailored guidance.
Reconnect back to love and pleasure after infidelity........Feeling as though you've lost not only your partner but also your sense of self upon discovering infidelity in your relationship. Do you find yourself questioning how you arrived at this point, transitioning from romantic partners to mere roommates due to years of neglecting sex and emotional intimacy? The weight of these emotions can be overwhelming, leaving you feeling lost and uncertain about the future. But you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Together, we can unravel the complexities of healing and rediscovery. Schedule a 90-minute session with me now.
With over 12 years of expertise in couples therapy and specialized certifications in sex and infidelity recovery, I offer holistic, tailored guidance.
Reconnect back to love and pleasure after infidelity........Feeling as though you've lost not only your partner but also your sense of self upon discovering infidelity in your relationship. Do you find yourself questioning how you arrived at this point, transitioning from romantic partners to mere roommates due to years of neglecting sex and emotional intimacy? The weight of these emotions can be overwhelming, leaving you feeling lost and uncertain about the future. But you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Together, we can unravel the complexities of healing and rediscovery. Schedule a 90-minute session with me now.
(480) 613-5885 View (480) 613-5885
Photo of Callie Barfield, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Callie Barfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53226  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a fat positive, anti-racist, kink informed, Queer, Trans, Aro/Ace & polyamory/ENM-affirming, sex worker-allied therapist.
Parenthood can be confusing, isolating, & not at all what we were expecting! I am passionate about collaborating with individuals across the spectrum of pregnancy & parenthood, including new parents, queer parents, non-traditional families, non-gestational or adoptive parents, those who have experienced loss or infertility, & birth parents & those impacted by adoption. I also provide unbiased, evidence based pregnancy options counseling. I also offer support with adjustment to parenthood & guidance in gentle & respectful parenting for secure attachment.
I am a fat positive, anti-racist, kink informed, Queer, Trans, Aro/Ace & polyamory/ENM-affirming, sex worker-allied therapist.
Parenthood can be confusing, isolating, & not at all what we were expecting! I am passionate about collaborating with individuals across the spectrum of pregnancy & parenthood, including new parents, queer parents, non-traditional families, non-gestational or adoptive parents, those who have experienced loss or infertility, & birth parents & those impacted by adoption. I also provide unbiased, evidence based pregnancy options counseling. I also offer support with adjustment to parenthood & guidance in gentle & respectful parenting for secure attachment.
(262) 205-7705 View (262) 205-7705
Photo of Joshua H. Aronoff, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Joshua H. Aronoff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53703
Waitlist for new clients
of Sexuality Educators Counselors & Therapists), and working with local school districts to develop a support groups for teachers.
"When we struggle with Stress, Anxiety, and Trauma it can interfere with our relationships and ability to function. I work with adults, couples, and families, to work through these difficulties in a way that supports their needs. My goal is to provide a welcoming space where people feel safe, heard, that is inclusive and intersectional. A space that welcomes folks with a variety of identities, experiences, and perspectives whether that is as an individual or within the context of their relationships."
of Sexuality Educators Counselors & Therapists), and working with local school districts to develop a support groups for teachers.
"When we struggle with Stress, Anxiety, and Trauma it can interfere with our relationships and ability to function. I work with adults, couples, and families, to work through these difficulties in a way that supports their needs. My goal is to provide a welcoming space where people feel safe, heard, that is inclusive and intersectional. A space that welcomes folks with a variety of identities, experiences, and perspectives whether that is as an individual or within the context of their relationships."
(608) 467-1106 x22 View (608) 467-1106 x22
Photo of Jeanine M Swenson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Wisconsin
Jeanine M Swenson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mequon, WI 53092
Are you feeling stuck in your personal or professional life? Are you missing closeness or comfort that has wained ? I am trained and licensed in Marriage & Family Therapy (systems) and enjoy helping patients and their families work on relational issues. My work is relationship & sex positive, and my focus is strength-based and solution-focused. I look forward to meeting you and hearing your unique story.
Are you feeling stuck in your personal or professional life? Are you missing closeness or comfort that has wained ? I am trained and licensed in Marriage & Family Therapy (systems) and enjoy helping patients and their families work on relational issues. My work is relationship & sex positive, and my focus is strength-based and solution-focused. I look forward to meeting you and hearing your unique story.
(844) 513-7879 View (844) 513-7879
Sex Therapy

Who is sex therapy for?

Sex problems are common in relationships. Many people want a better sex life and want to feel loved and desired by their partner. It is difficult for couples to resolve sexual problems on their own because people often feel ashamed to talk about their sexual desires fearing they are not normal, when in fact a very broad range of preferences and behaviors are normal. A sex therapist can help clarify this and other matters.

Why do people need sex therapy?

Many people do not know how to talk about their erotic needs or their emotional needs, both of which are addressed in sex therapy. Couples often live with sexual difficulties for years before seeking help, and in that time, partners may experience so much disappointment and alienation that they may fear their problems mean they are incompatible. Once people experience disappointment, it is difficult to find resolution without help.

What happens in sex therapy?

People have many misconceptions about what takes place in sex therapy. First, it is a form of talk therapy in which partners discuss their sexual concerns; it does not involve touching or physical exploration of any kind. Sex therapy typically helps couples get comfortable talking to each other about sex so that, in the privacy of their home life, they can openly discuss their sexual desires and make decisions about what they want to do. Couples are typically assigned activities to do at home that build intimacy skills.

What kinds of problems do sex therapists treat?

Very often, partners differ in their degree of sexual desire and struggle over how often to have sex. Or they may have fights about porn use or have difficulty connecting sexually after one partner is unfaithful. Men may have problems with premature ejaculation. Women may find themselves struggling to become aroused or to achieve an orgasm. Sometimes partners feel like they have lost the sense of attraction to their partner. These are all common issues dealt with in sex therapy.