Photo of Laurana Gatti, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Laurana Gatti
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MSEd
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
I’m Laurie Gatti, and I founded EMERGE because I truly believe healthy relationships, both with ourselves and with others, are the foundation for a fulfilling, happy life. ​ It’s my mission to help you realize the full potential of each of your relationships so that you can live the happy, healthy and productive life that you deserve! ​ I’m a licensed psychotherapist, ASSECT certified sex therapist, a certified executive coach with an expertise in relationship building.
I’m Laurie Gatti, and I founded EMERGE because I truly believe healthy relationships, both with ourselves and with others, are the foundation for a fulfilling, happy life. ​ It’s my mission to help you realize the full potential of each of your relationships so that you can live the happy, healthy and productive life that you deserve! ​ I’m a licensed psychotherapist, ASSECT certified sex therapist, a certified executive coach with an expertise in relationship building.
(412) 254-8294 View (412) 254-8294
Photo of Kristen Laemmer, LPC Intern in Pittsburgh, PA
Kristen Laemmer
LPC Intern, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Specializing in sex, LGBTQIA+, non-monogamous, trauma, and neurodivergent therapy, I'm here to support your transformative journey.
Welcome! Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or seeking positive change? My ideal client is someone navigating life's twists and turns, aiming for growth and happiness. You might be dealing with stress, anxiety, or relationship challenges. Let's collaborate to create a safe space for exploration and find practical solutions. Your goals matter, and I'm here to help you rediscover your strengths, build resilience, and foster a more fulfilling life. Together, we'll embark on a journey towards well-being and empowerment.
Specializing in sex, LGBTQIA+, non-monogamous, trauma, and neurodivergent therapy, I'm here to support your transformative journey.
Welcome! Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or seeking positive change? My ideal client is someone navigating life's twists and turns, aiming for growth and happiness. You might be dealing with stress, anxiety, or relationship challenges. Let's collaborate to create a safe space for exploration and find practical solutions. Your goals matter, and I'm here to help you rediscover your strengths, build resilience, and foster a more fulfilling life. Together, we'll embark on a journey towards well-being and empowerment.
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Photo of Sandra A Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Sandra A Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
I am best suited to treat individuals or couples ranging from 20-80 with intimacy, marital, sexuality, relationship issues as well as drug and alcohol issues.
I am best suited to treat individuals or couples ranging from 20-80 with intimacy, marital, sexuality, relationship issues as well as drug and alcohol issues.
(412) 259-3989 View (412) 259-3989
Photo of Dr. Tom Murray Sex And Relationship Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Dr. Tom Murray Sex And Relationship Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, SexTher, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15208  (Online Only)
With my brief-oriented approach, backed by the science of what works in sex therapy and couples counseling, you'll gain clarity, break old patterns, tackle mind-chatter, and experience satisfying sex and intimacy.
Should I stay or should I go? A huge question that's weighed on you. It keeps you up at night, stressing you out. Life would be so much easier if your relationship wasn't so hard. You wish you could communicate better; feel understood. But, damn, your shit and their shit get in the way. Not to mention the pressures of career, aging parents, or demanding children. It all gets thrown in the mix, leaving you exhausted, distracted, and disenchanted by the status quo. You want things to change (better sex, intimacy, connection); you're finally ready to take charge of your life in a new and meaningful way. You've come to the right place!
With my brief-oriented approach, backed by the science of what works in sex therapy and couples counseling, you'll gain clarity, break old patterns, tackle mind-chatter, and experience satisfying sex and intimacy.
Should I stay or should I go? A huge question that's weighed on you. It keeps you up at night, stressing you out. Life would be so much easier if your relationship wasn't so hard. You wish you could communicate better; feel understood. But, damn, your shit and their shit get in the way. Not to mention the pressures of career, aging parents, or demanding children. It all gets thrown in the mix, leaving you exhausted, distracted, and disenchanted by the status quo. You want things to change (better sex, intimacy, connection); you're finally ready to take charge of your life in a new and meaningful way. You've come to the right place!
(412) 385-4862 View (412) 385-4862
Photo of Victoria Blazejewski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Victoria Blazejewski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
My ideal client is an individual or couple ready to do the work needed to achieve their goals and who desires a happy, healthy life. They may want to work through relationships or sexual problems due to my interest in couples and sex therapy.
My ideal client is an individual or couple ready to do the work needed to achieve their goals and who desires a happy, healthy life. They may want to work through relationships or sexual problems due to my interest in couples and sex therapy.
(412) 426-3088 View (412) 426-3088
Photo of Calm Pittsburgh in Pittsburgh, PA
Calm Pittsburgh
LPC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
Our therapists employ eclectic, evidence-based techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-focused Therapy, Mindfulness, Narrative Therapy, Sex Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Therapy.
Your life is complex and unique. The quality of your relationships, work, family, health, and stresses can affect your most authentic and calm state. Let us be your allies! We'd love to peacefully assist you as you navigate the changes and challenges life can bring. Calm believes in making complex issues accessible while maintaining an affirming environment that recognizes and respects each person's unique experiences. We also proudly offer a comprehensive suite of sexuality counseling, education, supervision, and consulting services designed to provide expert guidance and promote the well-being of individuals and communities.
Our therapists employ eclectic, evidence-based techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-focused Therapy, Mindfulness, Narrative Therapy, Sex Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Therapy.
Your life is complex and unique. The quality of your relationships, work, family, health, and stresses can affect your most authentic and calm state. Let us be your allies! We'd love to peacefully assist you as you navigate the changes and challenges life can bring. Calm believes in making complex issues accessible while maintaining an affirming environment that recognizes and respects each person's unique experiences. We also proudly offer a comprehensive suite of sexuality counseling, education, supervision, and consulting services designed to provide expert guidance and promote the well-being of individuals and communities.
(412) 857-3717 View (412) 857-3717
Photo of Erin Donnelly, Psychologist in Pittsburgh, PA
Erin Donnelly
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15222  (Online Only)
My practice uniquely focuses on sexuality and reproduction: relationships/sex therapy, sexual dysfunctions, pelvic pain conditions, infertility and ARTs/third party parenting (& evaluations), adoption, reproductive traumas, peri/postpartum issues, transition to parenthood and gender identity.
Each of us is a complex product of our past and present environments and experiences. Generally, we act or cope in ways that are adaptive or necessary under given circumstances. When our default methods of coping are no longer effective or our circumstances change, we begin experiencing distress in specific realms of our lives. This distress might manifest as anxiety, depression, anger, pain, relationship or sexual difficulties, social isolation, declining performance and/or impairment in daily functioning. As there is an undeniable connection between our psychological and physical wellbeing, I approach treatment in an integrative, collaborative and personality-based manner.
My practice uniquely focuses on sexuality and reproduction: relationships/sex therapy, sexual dysfunctions, pelvic pain conditions, infertility and ARTs/third party parenting (& evaluations), adoption, reproductive traumas, peri/postpartum issues, transition to parenthood and gender identity.
Each of us is a complex product of our past and present environments and experiences. Generally, we act or cope in ways that are adaptive or necessary under given circumstances. When our default methods of coping are no longer effective or our circumstances change, we begin experiencing distress in specific realms of our lives. This distress might manifest as anxiety, depression, anger, pain, relationship or sexual difficulties, social isolation, declining performance and/or impairment in daily functioning. As there is an undeniable connection between our psychological and physical wellbeing, I approach treatment in an integrative, collaborative and personality-based manner.
(913) 370-7041 View (913) 370-7041
Photo of Cara Lindsey Kalakewich, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Cara Lindsey Kalakewich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
I work heavily with couples and I’m also a certified sex coach focusing on rebuilding intimacy after an affair.
Is your relationship struggling to thrive or are you realizing that intimacy with you and your partner is non-existent? Is this affecting your ability to relate to your partner or have there been years of disconnect? Do you feel that your relationship is hopeless and have even considered splitting or a divorce? Do you wonder if this relationship will ever improve and hence, life will continue to feel meaningless and lonely? So often, couples feel intimidated by their relationship issues that they stay stuck in their current patterns and can’t find a solid and effective solution.
I work heavily with couples and I’m also a certified sex coach focusing on rebuilding intimacy after an affair.
Is your relationship struggling to thrive or are you realizing that intimacy with you and your partner is non-existent? Is this affecting your ability to relate to your partner or have there been years of disconnect? Do you feel that your relationship is hopeless and have even considered splitting or a divorce? Do you wonder if this relationship will ever improve and hence, life will continue to feel meaningless and lonely? So often, couples feel intimidated by their relationship issues that they stay stuck in their current patterns and can’t find a solid and effective solution.
(724) 948-0762 View (724) 948-0762
Photo of Isobella Cerceo, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pittsburgh, PA
Isobella Cerceo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15122  (Online Only)
Healing is a lifelong journey, and it is not one you must do alone. You are taking a courageous first step towards realignment with yourself. By untangling the past, we can begin to heal these wounds and reclaim the narrative of our lives. I companion clients navigating trauma, relational distress, gender and sexuality exploration, sexual concerns, and neurodivergence. In and out of the therapy space, I am sex-positive, sex worker friendly, poly-friendly, kink aware & affirming, and Health at Every Size (HAES) aligned.
Healing is a lifelong journey, and it is not one you must do alone. You are taking a courageous first step towards realignment with yourself. By untangling the past, we can begin to heal these wounds and reclaim the narrative of our lives. I companion clients navigating trauma, relational distress, gender and sexuality exploration, sexual concerns, and neurodivergence. In and out of the therapy space, I am sex-positive, sex worker friendly, poly-friendly, kink aware & affirming, and Health at Every Size (HAES) aligned.
(484) 218-2404 View (484) 218-2404
Photo of Rebecca Sheppard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Rebecca Sheppard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
I am a LGBTQ+ affirming, sex-positive clinician.
I specifically enjoy working with clients experiencing anxiety/phobias, self-esteem/body image/disordered eating concerns, and stress. I would also love to work with clients experiencing sexual concerns. My ideal client is someone who comes to me with an open mind about treatment, is willing to challenge themselves, and works with me as a team to set and achieve their goals. Ideal clients will be open and honest with me, as they understand our sessions are a safe and judgment-free space. They will have patience with themselves as we explore their concerns while also being willing to make changes for their benefit.
I am a LGBTQ+ affirming, sex-positive clinician.
I specifically enjoy working with clients experiencing anxiety/phobias, self-esteem/body image/disordered eating concerns, and stress. I would also love to work with clients experiencing sexual concerns. My ideal client is someone who comes to me with an open mind about treatment, is willing to challenge themselves, and works with me as a team to set and achieve their goals. Ideal clients will be open and honest with me, as they understand our sessions are a safe and judgment-free space. They will have patience with themselves as we explore their concerns while also being willing to make changes for their benefit.
(412) 516-3848 View (412) 516-3848
Kings and Queens Family Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15212  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
We welcome and accept all individuals seeking support and change. Our world can be hard to navigate alone therefore, allow us the opportunity to support you. We have various therapist on staff that specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, veterans, human sexuality, families and children.
We welcome and accept all individuals seeking support and change. Our world can be hard to navigate alone therefore, allow us the opportunity to support you. We have various therapist on staff that specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, veterans, human sexuality, families and children.
(412) 981-1821 View (412) 981-1821
Photo of Rachael D Rosen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Rachael D Rosen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
I like working with college and graduate students. Individuals and couples who want to enhance their quality of life and will do the work and exploration that this journey may require. I am very engaging and will be active with you in the process. I have over forty years as a clinical Social Worker. I have a certification as a certified Sex Therapist and educator .(ASSECT) I work with new parents and families trying to become parents.
I like working with college and graduate students. Individuals and couples who want to enhance their quality of life and will do the work and exploration that this journey may require. I am very engaging and will be active with you in the process. I have over forty years as a clinical Social Worker. I have a certification as a certified Sex Therapist and educator .(ASSECT) I work with new parents and families trying to become parents.
(412) 253-4813 x106 View (412) 253-4813 x106
Photo of Meggan Hudspeth, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Meggan Hudspeth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15235
I love working with folks exploring gender identity, sexuality, various relationship types (i.
“Yoga means addition—addition of energy, strength, and beauty to body, mind, and soul.”—Amit Ray, Indian author and spiritualist In order to get to the root of what’s causing your discomfort we have to go towards and not away. This is painful but will cause change. I’m going to ask you to share your story with me. But you don’t have to do it alone. I see myself as both a support and a fierce advocate for clients to assist with their growth and navigation through the barriers. Through the addition of support and guidance I can help increase your energy strength and beauty of your self as a whole.
I love working with folks exploring gender identity, sexuality, various relationship types (i.
“Yoga means addition—addition of energy, strength, and beauty to body, mind, and soul.”—Amit Ray, Indian author and spiritualist In order to get to the root of what’s causing your discomfort we have to go towards and not away. This is painful but will cause change. I’m going to ask you to share your story with me. But you don’t have to do it alone. I see myself as both a support and a fierce advocate for clients to assist with their growth and navigation through the barriers. Through the addition of support and guidance I can help increase your energy strength and beauty of your self as a whole.
(412) 896-0076 View (412) 896-0076
Photo of Celeste DiTroia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Celeste DiTroia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15212  (Online Only)
D candidate for Clinical sexuality with over 10 years’ experience therapizing folks.
Greetings and salutations, I am Celeste! Are you looking for a space to truly be heard? A safe environment with another human who will not only listen, but empower, and challenge you? Are you struggling with your sexuality? Experiencing anxiety because the world is crazy and adulting is HARD? Does coping with day-to-day things seem like an insurmountable task that you’d rather put off for (yet) another day? How about relationships? Have they been increasingly confusing, or do you find yourself struggling with communication? Well, you are in luck because supporting people with these challenges is what I am all about.
D candidate for Clinical sexuality with over 10 years’ experience therapizing folks.
Greetings and salutations, I am Celeste! Are you looking for a space to truly be heard? A safe environment with another human who will not only listen, but empower, and challenge you? Are you struggling with your sexuality? Experiencing anxiety because the world is crazy and adulting is HARD? Does coping with day-to-day things seem like an insurmountable task that you’d rather put off for (yet) another day? How about relationships? Have they been increasingly confusing, or do you find yourself struggling with communication? Well, you are in luck because supporting people with these challenges is what I am all about.
(808) 207-6499 View (808) 207-6499
Photo of Grace Wellness Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Grace Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235
We have many different counselors that specialize in a wide array of issues including marriage and family, depression, anxiety, affairs, trauma, foster/adoptive care, addictions, sexuality issues and many more.
We are a group of Christian Counselors who treat clients of all ages through Biblical truth and the healing power of God's grace. We integrate the best from the discipline of psychology with Christian counseling to help people find peace and contentment. We have counselors who specialize in addictions, attachment and trauma issues, grief, relationships, children, parenting, depression, anxiety and most other issues. Our organization has several centers throughout western PA. Please visit our website to see if we have a location that will meet your needs. www.thegracewellnesscenter.com
We have many different counselors that specialize in a wide array of issues including marriage and family, depression, anxiety, affairs, trauma, foster/adoptive care, addictions, sexuality issues and many more.
We are a group of Christian Counselors who treat clients of all ages through Biblical truth and the healing power of God's grace. We integrate the best from the discipline of psychology with Christian counseling to help people find peace and contentment. We have counselors who specialize in addictions, attachment and trauma issues, grief, relationships, children, parenting, depression, anxiety and most other issues. Our organization has several centers throughout western PA. Please visit our website to see if we have a location that will meet your needs. www.thegracewellnesscenter.com
(724) 906-4319 View (724) 906-4319
Photo of James Wadley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
James Wadley
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CSTS, IMHF
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
As a couples and sexuality therapist as well as an addictions specialist (e.
Do you have trust issues in your relationship? Are you afraid to be honest with your partner or tired of trying to be someone you're not? Neither you or your partner are really talking about your hurt or resentments over pornography and infidelity. You've tried over and over again and the current situation isn't working for you and/or your relationship. Contact me and we will talk about how you feel about your challenges and together come up with a behavioral and emotional strategy for you to move forward! By the end of our FIRST session, you will be given therapeutic goals that you and I will work on.
As a couples and sexuality therapist as well as an addictions specialist (e.
Do you have trust issues in your relationship? Are you afraid to be honest with your partner or tired of trying to be someone you're not? Neither you or your partner are really talking about your hurt or resentments over pornography and infidelity. You've tried over and over again and the current situation isn't working for you and/or your relationship. Contact me and we will talk about how you feel about your challenges and together come up with a behavioral and emotional strategy for you to move forward! By the end of our FIRST session, you will be given therapeutic goals that you and I will work on.
(267) 888-4202 View (267) 888-4202
Photo of Grace Wellness Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Grace Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15216
We have many different counselors that specialize in a wide array of issues including marriage and family, depression, anxiety, affairs, trauma, foster/adoptive care, addictions, sexuality issues and many more.
We are a group of Christian Counselors who treat clients of all ages through Biblical truth and the healing power of God's grace. We integrate the best from the discipline of psychology with Christian counseling to help people find peace and contentment. We have counselors who specialize in addictions, attachment and trauma issues, grief, relationships, children, parenting, depression, anxiety and most other issues. Our organization has several centers throughout western PA. Please visit our website to see if we have a location that will meet your needs. www.thegracewellnesscenter.com
We have many different counselors that specialize in a wide array of issues including marriage and family, depression, anxiety, affairs, trauma, foster/adoptive care, addictions, sexuality issues and many more.
We are a group of Christian Counselors who treat clients of all ages through Biblical truth and the healing power of God's grace. We integrate the best from the discipline of psychology with Christian counseling to help people find peace and contentment. We have counselors who specialize in addictions, attachment and trauma issues, grief, relationships, children, parenting, depression, anxiety and most other issues. Our organization has several centers throughout western PA. Please visit our website to see if we have a location that will meet your needs. www.thegracewellnesscenter.com
(724) 414-1549 View (724) 414-1549
Photo of Marc Treanor, Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Marc Treanor
Counselor, MEd, LACMH, NCC, ASAT, ICGC-I
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
I am an Associate Sex Addiction Therapist (ASAT) and have received extensive training and experience in treating compulsive sexual behaviors.
Compulsive behaviors impact all aspects of one’s life, including thoughts, feelings, and actions. They can lead to various addictions, including substance use, sex, social media, relationships, gambling, and more. People with compulsive behaviors often struggle to align their actions with personal goals. For more than twenty years, I have supported individuals struggling with compulsive behaviors. I built my practice upon the idea that anyone can recover if given the right tools and environment, and I aim to provide a safe space where clients gain insight into their emotions, experiences, and behavioral patterns.
I am an Associate Sex Addiction Therapist (ASAT) and have received extensive training and experience in treating compulsive sexual behaviors.
Compulsive behaviors impact all aspects of one’s life, including thoughts, feelings, and actions. They can lead to various addictions, including substance use, sex, social media, relationships, gambling, and more. People with compulsive behaviors often struggle to align their actions with personal goals. For more than twenty years, I have supported individuals struggling with compulsive behaviors. I built my practice upon the idea that anyone can recover if given the right tools and environment, and I aim to provide a safe space where clients gain insight into their emotions, experiences, and behavioral patterns.
(302) 204-0781 View (302) 204-0781
Photo of Basil Guyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Basil Guyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
My practice is trans owned and centered, and I consider myself to be quite literate with gender, sexuality, sex, and all kinds of relationship models.
Hello! My name is Basil. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Pennsylvania and North Carolina. My practice is currently mostly telehealth, with some in person availability in Durham, NC. I also rent office space in Philly occasionally for in person sessions. I've been providing psychotherapy since 2017, and have a long career history in disability work. Overall I have 17 years experience in Carework. I am a trauma therapist. I am a sex therapist. I am a relationships therapist.
My practice is trans owned and centered, and I consider myself to be quite literate with gender, sexuality, sex, and all kinds of relationship models.
Hello! My name is Basil. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Pennsylvania and North Carolina. My practice is currently mostly telehealth, with some in person availability in Durham, NC. I also rent office space in Philly occasionally for in person sessions. I've been providing psychotherapy since 2017, and have a long career history in disability work. Overall I have 17 years experience in Carework. I am a trauma therapist. I am a sex therapist. I am a relationships therapist.
(919) 289-8164 View (919) 289-8164
Photo of Caitlin Harrison, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pittsburgh, PA
Caitlin Harrison
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217  (Online Only)
My commitment is to forge an authentic connection, ensuring you feel safe in our shared journey. Specializing in anxiety, I explore childhood wounds' impact on present-day life. Assisting with trauma, my focus extends to religious trauma, deconstruction, and deconversion. I provide a non-judgmental space to explore evolving individuality—unraveling layers of identity, grappling with existential questions. For couples, I specialize in conflict resolution, sexuality and intimacy, coparenting, and infidelity. Recognizing negative cycles, we delve into the emotional core, guiding couples to build a strong, loving and resilient bond.
My commitment is to forge an authentic connection, ensuring you feel safe in our shared journey. Specializing in anxiety, I explore childhood wounds' impact on present-day life. Assisting with trauma, my focus extends to religious trauma, deconstruction, and deconversion. I provide a non-judgmental space to explore evolving individuality—unraveling layers of identity, grappling with existential questions. For couples, I specialize in conflict resolution, sexuality and intimacy, coparenting, and infidelity. Recognizing negative cycles, we delve into the emotional core, guiding couples to build a strong, loving and resilient bond.
(267) 507-0355 View (267) 507-0355
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.