Photo of Justine Kallaugher, Psychologist in Dallas, TX
Justine Kallaugher
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
If you find yourself struggling with emotions that feel hard to control, engaging in "people pleasing" tendencies that leave you worn out, or are worried about repeating unhelpful relationship patterns, then I'm the therapist for you. I specialize in depression, grief, anxiety, relationship problems, personality disorders, self-harming behaviors, and those who may have experienced trauma or interpersonal violence. I also work with clients experiencing sexual difficulty, including issues related to sex and trauma, reclaiming one's sexual identity, and learning to experience fulfilling sex.
If you find yourself struggling with emotions that feel hard to control, engaging in "people pleasing" tendencies that leave you worn out, or are worried about repeating unhelpful relationship patterns, then I'm the therapist for you. I specialize in depression, grief, anxiety, relationship problems, personality disorders, self-harming behaviors, and those who may have experienced trauma or interpersonal violence. I also work with clients experiencing sexual difficulty, including issues related to sex and trauma, reclaiming one's sexual identity, and learning to experience fulfilling sex.
(972) 734-1704 View (972) 734-1704
Photo of Aydrelle Collins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Aydrelle Collins
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75214
I help couples have great sex! As a couple, you've conquered every aspect of life, yet when it comes to sex and intimacy, you're struggling. Despite your attempts to mend things independently, you find yourselves trapped in an endless loop of frustration and avoidance. You crave a deeper sexual connection with your partner, but the constant arguments and misunderstandings have left you feeling disconnected and distant. You know that sex is an issue. You know that you need solutions for your sex life but, you are not sure where to go or where to start.
I help couples have great sex! As a couple, you've conquered every aspect of life, yet when it comes to sex and intimacy, you're struggling. Despite your attempts to mend things independently, you find yourselves trapped in an endless loop of frustration and avoidance. You crave a deeper sexual connection with your partner, but the constant arguments and misunderstandings have left you feeling disconnected and distant. You know that sex is an issue. You know that you need solutions for your sex life but, you are not sure where to go or where to start.
(972) 853-9860 View (972) 853-9860
Photo of Stevie Hall, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Stevie Hall
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CSAT, CCTP, CSOTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75248
We don’t always expect to find ourselves in a place where we need to reach out for help, but taking that step is a massive leap toward things getting better. Whether you are here to improve relationship concerns, address compulsive sexual behavior, seek help for infidelity or betrayal, or improve intimacy and sex, we can work together to get you to the place you’d like to be. In working with clients, I don't take a generalized approach and I tailor each session to your goals. My hope is that you leave each session knowing what your next step is.
We don’t always expect to find ourselves in a place where we need to reach out for help, but taking that step is a massive leap toward things getting better. Whether you are here to improve relationship concerns, address compulsive sexual behavior, seek help for infidelity or betrayal, or improve intimacy and sex, we can work together to get you to the place you’d like to be. In working with clients, I don't take a generalized approach and I tailor each session to your goals. My hope is that you leave each session knowing what your next step is.
(972) 503-4721 View (972) 503-4721
Photo of Chelsea Billups, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Chelsea Billups
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75204
I specialize in couples/family therapy, sex therapy and trauma.
We turn to counseling when our problems with our partners/family have us feeling misunderstood and helpless, or when we’ve lost a sense of who we are and our desires, or feel out of control. These struggles, among many others, in combination with daily responsibilities and challenges can feel extremely overwhelming and hinder our ability to thrive. As a therapist, my intention is to provide an authentically safe and holistic therapeutic space that promotes healing, exploration, and growth.
I specialize in couples/family therapy, sex therapy and trauma.
We turn to counseling when our problems with our partners/family have us feeling misunderstood and helpless, or when we’ve lost a sense of who we are and our desires, or feel out of control. These struggles, among many others, in combination with daily responsibilities and challenges can feel extremely overwhelming and hinder our ability to thrive. As a therapist, my intention is to provide an authentically safe and holistic therapeutic space that promotes healing, exploration, and growth.
(469) 405-1545 View (469) 405-1545
Photo of Barbara Gold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Barbara Gold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254
Certified sexuality therapist working with couples and individuals for over 35 years. All genders, sexual orientations, cancer patients, step-families, etc., for depression, anxiety & grief, as well as sexuality issues such as low/mismatched libidos, ED, anorgasmia, etc., As a licensed marriage & family therapist & clinical social worker I help clients with new tools and skills, e.g. effective communication, love of self & others & emotional growth in a safe, non-judgmental environment. My book, "Loving Courageously" is available on Amazon & includes much of the above and more. Visit my website at www.barbaragoldtherapist.com.
Certified sexuality therapist working with couples and individuals for over 35 years. All genders, sexual orientations, cancer patients, step-families, etc., for depression, anxiety & grief, as well as sexuality issues such as low/mismatched libidos, ED, anorgasmia, etc., As a licensed marriage & family therapist & clinical social worker I help clients with new tools and skills, e.g. effective communication, love of self & others & emotional growth in a safe, non-judgmental environment. My book, "Loving Courageously" is available on Amazon & includes much of the above and more. Visit my website at www.barbaragoldtherapist.com.
(214) 949-4754 View (214) 949-4754
Photo of Gene Klassen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Gene Klassen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75209
In a culture, where judging or joking about the sexuality of others is common, talking about personal challenges with our own sexuality is often difficult and embarrassing. You may have just learned about an affair or other act of infidelity and are feeling angry, confused, and hurt; may be wondering why you cannot seem to stop compulsive behavior with prostitutes, anonymous partners, or pornography; may have been sexually abused, not knowing how to find peace and move on; or may feel so much anxiety about sex that you are unable to enjoy it. I provide a safe place to talk.
In a culture, where judging or joking about the sexuality of others is common, talking about personal challenges with our own sexuality is often difficult and embarrassing. You may have just learned about an affair or other act of infidelity and are feeling angry, confused, and hurt; may be wondering why you cannot seem to stop compulsive behavior with prostitutes, anonymous partners, or pornography; may have been sexually abused, not knowing how to find peace and move on; or may feel so much anxiety about sex that you are unable to enjoy it. I provide a safe place to talk.
(214) 390-5800 x2 View (214) 390-5800 x2
Photo of Michael Salas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Michael Salas
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC-S, CSAT, CST, SEP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75219
This includes gender affirming care for people who transgender and gender non-confirming, and sexuality affirming care for gay, lesbian, queer, questioning, pan, and bisexual folks.
Whether you're figuring out who you are, coming out to others, or looking for a place where you can explore other areas of your life, I can help. I can help if you're looking to explore sex, love, and relationships, if you're looking to heal old traumas, or you're managing an addiction. As an LGBTQ+ therapist who is a part of the community, I understand the need to have an affirming place to explore issues. I know everyone has their own journey figuring out their authentic sexual orientation and gender, but I also know that it can impact several areas of your life.
This includes gender affirming care for people who transgender and gender non-confirming, and sexuality affirming care for gay, lesbian, queer, questioning, pan, and bisexual folks.
Whether you're figuring out who you are, coming out to others, or looking for a place where you can explore other areas of your life, I can help. I can help if you're looking to explore sex, love, and relationships, if you're looking to heal old traumas, or you're managing an addiction. As an LGBTQ+ therapist who is a part of the community, I understand the need to have an affirming place to explore issues. I know everyone has their own journey figuring out their authentic sexual orientation and gender, but I also know that it can impact several areas of your life.
(214) 390-9550 x1 View (214) 390-9550 x1
Photo of Chris T Lorenc, Counselor in Dallas, TX
Chris T Lorenc
Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC, CSAT, CPTT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75244
I am an expert in not just in sex addiction, porn addiction and other compulsive behaviors, but I (and other members of my practice) also treat co-existing issues of trauma, depression, grief and loss.
I provide sexual addiction help in an atmosphere that is encouraging and accepting and meet the client and his or her family where they are. My specialty is sexual addiction, and I am a Dallas area Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) trained personally by Dr Patrick Carnes. I treat drug and alcohol dependence, and associated trauma, grief, and depression as well. I treat cybersex addiction, pornography addiction, multiple affairs, and other sexually compulsive behavior. Sexual addiction, like other addictions, affects the whole family system, especially the partner. I am a CPTT, Certified Partner Trauma Therapist as well.
I am an expert in not just in sex addiction, porn addiction and other compulsive behaviors, but I (and other members of my practice) also treat co-existing issues of trauma, depression, grief and loss.
I provide sexual addiction help in an atmosphere that is encouraging and accepting and meet the client and his or her family where they are. My specialty is sexual addiction, and I am a Dallas area Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) trained personally by Dr Patrick Carnes. I treat drug and alcohol dependence, and associated trauma, grief, and depression as well. I treat cybersex addiction, pornography addiction, multiple affairs, and other sexually compulsive behavior. Sexual addiction, like other addictions, affects the whole family system, especially the partner. I am a CPTT, Certified Partner Trauma Therapist as well.
(972) 891-9820 View (972) 891-9820
Photo of Hendrix Scott, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, TX
Hendrix Scott
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206
I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Certified Sex Therapist in my late 30's.
Moving locations from Houston to Dallas. Starting January 1st in Dallas. When did you learn conflict resolution while you were growing up? And, from who? These questions are often met with laughter from clients as they quickly reply, "I didn't!" How can we expect to utilize skills that we've never learned? We don't inherently know how to have healthy relationships with partners and/or ourselves. Give you and your partner (or potential partners) a break. You don’t have to keep ignoring the obvious signs of distress. We all need help sometimes!
I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Certified Sex Therapist in my late 30's.
Moving locations from Houston to Dallas. Starting January 1st in Dallas. When did you learn conflict resolution while you were growing up? And, from who? These questions are often met with laughter from clients as they quickly reply, "I didn't!" How can we expect to utilize skills that we've never learned? We don't inherently know how to have healthy relationships with partners and/or ourselves. Give you and your partner (or potential partners) a break. You don’t have to keep ignoring the obvious signs of distress. We all need help sometimes!
(832) 564-0339 View (832) 564-0339
Photo of Daphne Jaguar Browell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Daphne Jaguar Browell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75246  (Online Only)
I have a comprehensive background in addiction, mental health disorders, sex therapy and couples counseling.
So you are looking for a therapist and possibly wondering “why should I choose this therapist over any other?” Good question. Once you’ve found a therapist with a solid background in what you want to address, it is all about therapeutic approach and personality fit (the elusive rapport). In our initial introductory conversation (15 minute call) you can tell me about what you are looking for, I'll tell you about myself, and we’ll see if I am a fit. You can also visit my website for more details on me and my practice: TherapistBrowell.com
I have a comprehensive background in addiction, mental health disorders, sex therapy and couples counseling.
So you are looking for a therapist and possibly wondering “why should I choose this therapist over any other?” Good question. Once you’ve found a therapist with a solid background in what you want to address, it is all about therapeutic approach and personality fit (the elusive rapport). In our initial introductory conversation (15 minute call) you can tell me about what you are looking for, I'll tell you about myself, and we’ll see if I am a fit. You can also visit my website for more details on me and my practice: TherapistBrowell.com
(214) 833-7390 View (214) 833-7390
Photo of Samuel Donath, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, TX
Samuel Donath
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75240  (Online Only)
You have difficulty controlling your thoughts, behaviors, relationships, or your sex life. You find yourself behaving in ways that you don’t understand and have gotten you into trouble. You have tried to figure this out on your own, and it isn’t working. You want to understand yourself better, be a better version of yourself, and you are needing change. During my professional career, I have helped many clients with issues in these areas. Life is complex, and even the most successful and intelligent people need help at times.
You have difficulty controlling your thoughts, behaviors, relationships, or your sex life. You find yourself behaving in ways that you don’t understand and have gotten you into trouble. You have tried to figure this out on your own, and it isn’t working. You want to understand yourself better, be a better version of yourself, and you are needing change. During my professional career, I have helped many clients with issues in these areas. Life is complex, and even the most successful and intelligent people need help at times.
(916) 666-2759 View (916) 666-2759
Photo of Jamie Boulding-Bridges, Counselor in Dallas, TX
Jamie Boulding-Bridges
Counselor, LPC, CST, FAC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75201
Additionally, I am a board certified sex therapist with a sex positive stance.
I am excited that you have taken the first step towards finding a therapist to help you navigate your current life situation. I am a relational and emotionally focused therapist who will work collaboratively with you to listen to, understand, explore, and move past whatever you feel is holding you back from living your most authentic and fulfilling life. I have trained with The Gottman institute and integrate their methods through an emotionally focused lens when working with couples. While I openly welcome all couples, I have additional experience and special insight working with same sex couples.
Additionally, I am a board certified sex therapist with a sex positive stance.
I am excited that you have taken the first step towards finding a therapist to help you navigate your current life situation. I am a relational and emotionally focused therapist who will work collaboratively with you to listen to, understand, explore, and move past whatever you feel is holding you back from living your most authentic and fulfilling life. I have trained with The Gottman institute and integrate their methods through an emotionally focused lens when working with couples. While I openly welcome all couples, I have additional experience and special insight working with same sex couples.
(425) 414-7616 View (425) 414-7616
Photo of Ruby Bouie Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Ruby Bouie Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75219
Sexuality education and sexual desire are mapped through sexual curiosity and creativity with me.
I provide a compassionate therapeutic environment that invites you to explore and to seek solution to resolve those struggles and challenges. I listen to our narrative and your desires in our collaborative process. I offer you a safe and an affirming environment that facilitates and nurtures practical and realistic therapeutic goals. As I empower you, we cope with issues such as addiction, love and relationship problems, sexual identity, gender identity and expression, and infidelity.
Sexuality education and sexual desire are mapped through sexual curiosity and creativity with me.
I provide a compassionate therapeutic environment that invites you to explore and to seek solution to resolve those struggles and challenges. I listen to our narrative and your desires in our collaborative process. I offer you a safe and an affirming environment that facilitates and nurtures practical and realistic therapeutic goals. As I empower you, we cope with issues such as addiction, love and relationship problems, sexual identity, gender identity and expression, and infidelity.
(469) 518-2960 View (469) 518-2960
Photo of Elizabeth Newsom, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Elizabeth Newsom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75287
Waitlist for new clients
Do you find that you have dissatisfaction with your life? Are your relationships strained? Is something wrong but you can't place what it is? Do you know what is wrong but just don't know how to fix it? Are your relationships not where you want them? Is your sex life not where you want it? Are you struggling with sexuality and/or gender issues? If find that you identify with any of these questions, Realistic Expectations, PLLC, can help you.
Do you find that you have dissatisfaction with your life? Are your relationships strained? Is something wrong but you can't place what it is? Do you know what is wrong but just don't know how to fix it? Are your relationships not where you want them? Is your sex life not where you want it? Are you struggling with sexuality and/or gender issues? If find that you identify with any of these questions, Realistic Expectations, PLLC, can help you.
(972) 325-5455 View (972) 325-5455
Photo of Nicole Van Ness, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, TX
Nicole Van Ness
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75201  (Online Only)
My passion and specialty is working with people to build the relationships they want. Whether you struggle with low or unmatched sexual desire, problems with orgasm or ejaculation, history of trauma or abuse, anxiety or depression, relationship or intimacy issues, or some combination of these, I can help. I work from the Developmental Model of couples therapy. By incorporating a down-to-earth attitude, research on neuroscience and successful relationships, and practical tips and strategies, I will help you to identify the patterns that are helping and hurting your relationship and your sex life.
My passion and specialty is working with people to build the relationships they want. Whether you struggle with low or unmatched sexual desire, problems with orgasm or ejaculation, history of trauma or abuse, anxiety or depression, relationship or intimacy issues, or some combination of these, I can help. I work from the Developmental Model of couples therapy. By incorporating a down-to-earth attitude, research on neuroscience and successful relationships, and practical tips and strategies, I will help you to identify the patterns that are helping and hurting your relationship and your sex life.
(214) 239-0509 View (214) 239-0509
Photo of Julia Ruth Bowman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Julia Ruth Bowman
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75205
I have a sex therapy certification through the Sexual Health Alliance, a Kink Informed Certification in progress, and will be pursuing AASECT certification as well.
Hello and Welcome! It has been a dream of mine to become a therapist since I was about 11 years old. Sexual health discussions have never made me uncomfortable in any way, and I like to provide a safe space for clients to discuss these issues. Many people experience shame about their relationship preferences, kinks, and sexual orientation. I like to help individuals and couples who may be struggling in this area. I also enjoy working with clients who are gender diverse, are thinking about or currently transitioning, and so forth.
I have a sex therapy certification through the Sexual Health Alliance, a Kink Informed Certification in progress, and will be pursuing AASECT certification as well.
Hello and Welcome! It has been a dream of mine to become a therapist since I was about 11 years old. Sexual health discussions have never made me uncomfortable in any way, and I like to provide a safe space for clients to discuss these issues. Many people experience shame about their relationship preferences, kinks, and sexual orientation. I like to help individuals and couples who may be struggling in this area. I also enjoy working with clients who are gender diverse, are thinking about or currently transitioning, and so forth.
(512) 991-5407 View (512) 991-5407
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Christine Lang, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Dr. Stephanie Christine Lang
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LSOTP, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206  (Online Only)
I’m Positive Psychology focused, believing that people tend to live up to your view of them. LGBTQ & sex worker friendly. I understand & I am comfortable working with the complexities of modern relationships. I teach a highly effective Emotion Regulation program. I’m an active learner of the Relationship and Happiness research. Whether you've had a long history of destructive relationships or this is the first time you’re having issues, I can help you turn your relationship(s) around. I can help you turn your level of life peace and joy around too. Specialties: sexual shame and relationship therapy.
I’m Positive Psychology focused, believing that people tend to live up to your view of them. LGBTQ & sex worker friendly. I understand & I am comfortable working with the complexities of modern relationships. I teach a highly effective Emotion Regulation program. I’m an active learner of the Relationship and Happiness research. Whether you've had a long history of destructive relationships or this is the first time you’re having issues, I can help you turn your relationship(s) around. I can help you turn your level of life peace and joy around too. Specialties: sexual shame and relationship therapy.
(214) 892-2291 View (214) 892-2291
Photo of Tammy Fisher Aasect Sex Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, TX
Tammy Fisher Aasect Sex Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC-S, LMFT-S, CST
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75209  (Online Only)
I have extensive training in couples and sexuality specific techniques and tools and have been seeing couples for over 15 years.
Relationships are hard. Only our closest loved ones, especially those we share a bed with, can stir up our most intense feelings of emotional pain, disappointment and shame. We often respond to these emotions with anger, withdraw, control or resistance which leads to conflict, emotional distance and the dreaded dead bedroom syndrome. Having disagreements in a relationship is expected. We all have our own ways of seeing, feeling and thinking about things including sex. The key to a healthy relationship is to be able to acknowledge the differences and communicate in a way that is genuine, supportive and understanding.
I have extensive training in couples and sexuality specific techniques and tools and have been seeing couples for over 15 years.
Relationships are hard. Only our closest loved ones, especially those we share a bed with, can stir up our most intense feelings of emotional pain, disappointment and shame. We often respond to these emotions with anger, withdraw, control or resistance which leads to conflict, emotional distance and the dreaded dead bedroom syndrome. Having disagreements in a relationship is expected. We all have our own ways of seeing, feeling and thinking about things including sex. The key to a healthy relationship is to be able to acknowledge the differences and communicate in a way that is genuine, supportive and understanding.
(512) 940-1168 View (512) 940-1168
Photo of Dr. Hannah Warshowsky, Psychologist in Dallas, TX
Dr. Hannah Warshowsky
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75226  (Online Only)
I am a sex-positive clinician with specialized training in increasing “cliteracy” and working with sexual functioning concerns for clients of all sexual/gender identities.
“And how do you feel about that!?” ---Says every TV comedy-bit depicting therapy. In reality, it can be intimidating to share our true feelings with another person- especially with a (virtual) stranger. In therapy sessions, I therefore create a warm, safe, empathetic, non-judgmental, space to unpack your story. I view you as an expert on yourself and will encourage you to honor your own inner wisdom. I value processing your unique context and how intersectional identities and structures of oppression contribute to your distress.  My goal is to illuminate the root causes of your pain and to help guide you towards healing and growth.
I am a sex-positive clinician with specialized training in increasing “cliteracy” and working with sexual functioning concerns for clients of all sexual/gender identities.
“And how do you feel about that!?” ---Says every TV comedy-bit depicting therapy. In reality, it can be intimidating to share our true feelings with another person- especially with a (virtual) stranger. In therapy sessions, I therefore create a warm, safe, empathetic, non-judgmental, space to unpack your story. I view you as an expert on yourself and will encourage you to honor your own inner wisdom. I value processing your unique context and how intersectional identities and structures of oppression contribute to your distress.  My goal is to illuminate the root causes of your pain and to help guide you towards healing and growth.
(404) 999-1665 View (404) 999-1665
Photo of Respark Therapy & Associates, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Respark Therapy & Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75201
We are a team of highly-specialized therapists who are committed to serving your individual and relationship needs. We have a combined 40+ years of experience and a wide array of specialties and certifications. We provide the most up to date and effective therapy because our clinicians are highly trained in relationship issues as well as sexuality issues. Most couples therapists do not receive any education in sexuality. We are a diverse team which only strengthens our ability to serve all communities. We continuously seek advanced, expert training opportunities in sexuality and relationship issues.
We are a team of highly-specialized therapists who are committed to serving your individual and relationship needs. We have a combined 40+ years of experience and a wide array of specialties and certifications. We provide the most up to date and effective therapy because our clinicians are highly trained in relationship issues as well as sexuality issues. Most couples therapists do not receive any education in sexuality. We are a diverse team which only strengthens our ability to serve all communities. We continuously seek advanced, expert training opportunities in sexuality and relationship issues.
(512) 572-9866 View (512) 572-9866
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.