Photo of Emily Pniewski, Counselor in Arizona
Emily Pniewski
Counselor, LPC, MS, CSTIP, CTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Glendale, AZ 85308  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in issues related to PTSD, sexuality, identity development, relationship issues, mismatched libidos, etc.
Asking for help is no easy task. Whether looking to help yourself, your relationship, or your career, it can be scary to admit vulnerability. However, despite some popular beliefs, therapy is not about “fixing” something that is broken; it is about understanding the nature of your difficulties and working with your strengths to see yourself through it. I strive to offer compassion and understanding to help you identify your current barriers in life while also helping you resolve deeper emotional distress. I provide a warm and caring space for reflection and to help you process your needs.
I specialize in issues related to PTSD, sexuality, identity development, relationship issues, mismatched libidos, etc.
Asking for help is no easy task. Whether looking to help yourself, your relationship, or your career, it can be scary to admit vulnerability. However, despite some popular beliefs, therapy is not about “fixing” something that is broken; it is about understanding the nature of your difficulties and working with your strengths to see yourself through it. I strive to offer compassion and understanding to help you identify your current barriers in life while also helping you resolve deeper emotional distress. I provide a warm and caring space for reflection and to help you process your needs.
(623) 294-0433 View (623) 294-0433
Photo of Mindful Sex and Relationship Therapy, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arizona
Mindful Sex and Relationship Therapy, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712
Mindful Sex and Relationship Therapy, LLC is a private practice specializing in sexual and relationship issues.
Are you tired of feeling "stuck" in a repetitive pattern with your partner and it just won't stop no matter what you do? Do you have low sexual desire and you are concerned it won't come back? Have you been told you have a sex/porn addiction? Are you polyamorous and having a hard time with jealousy or fear?
Mindful Sex and Relationship Therapy, LLC is a private practice specializing in sexual and relationship issues.
Are you tired of feeling "stuck" in a repetitive pattern with your partner and it just won't stop no matter what you do? Do you have low sexual desire and you are concerned it won't come back? Have you been told you have a sex/porn addiction? Are you polyamorous and having a hard time with jealousy or fear?
(520) 391-9503 View (520) 391-9503
Photo of Julie Benton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arizona
Julie Benton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296  (Online Only)
I specialize in relationship issues including communication problems, emotional disconnection, sexuality issues, and infidelity/betrayal recovery.
Do you find yourself getting stuck in patterns, having the same fights with your partner over and over? Do you sometimes feel alone in your relationship or like you've become more like roommates than lovers? These feelings can be discouraging and isolating, but you are not alone. I empower partners to navigate these common challenges in a way that gets to the heart of the matter. Together we work to co-create a new experience of each other, with more authenticity and intimacy. You are capable of achieving what we all want and need- to love and be loved, to experience joy and connection, and to live a life with purpose and meaning.
I specialize in relationship issues including communication problems, emotional disconnection, sexuality issues, and infidelity/betrayal recovery.
Do you find yourself getting stuck in patterns, having the same fights with your partner over and over? Do you sometimes feel alone in your relationship or like you've become more like roommates than lovers? These feelings can be discouraging and isolating, but you are not alone. I empower partners to navigate these common challenges in a way that gets to the heart of the matter. Together we work to co-create a new experience of each other, with more authenticity and intimacy. You are capable of achieving what we all want and need- to love and be loved, to experience joy and connection, and to live a life with purpose and meaning.
(480) 210-5980 View (480) 210-5980
Photo of Alyssa Abraham, Counselor in Arizona
Alyssa Abraham
Counselor, MA, LAC , NCC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712
Immediate openings! I am currently working towards an AASECT approved Sex Therapy Certification. My therapeutic approach is trauma-informed, compassionate, patient, and free of judgment. My primary focus is helping heal connections within couples and families. I have experience working with individuals with trauma, neurodiversity, mood disorders, identity issues, grief, loss, and many more populations. I am an LGBTQIA+ affirming, kink affirming, and ethical non-monogamy affirming therapist.
Immediate openings! I am currently working towards an AASECT approved Sex Therapy Certification. My therapeutic approach is trauma-informed, compassionate, patient, and free of judgment. My primary focus is helping heal connections within couples and families. I have experience working with individuals with trauma, neurodiversity, mood disorders, identity issues, grief, loss, and many more populations. I am an LGBTQIA+ affirming, kink affirming, and ethical non-monogamy affirming therapist.
(520) 276-4346 View (520) 276-4346
Photo of Holly Nelson, Counselor in Arizona
Holly Nelson
Counselor, MS, LPC, CMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296
I strive to empower each client to find and use new awareness to enhance and change their lives. I provide empathy, support, knowledge, and experience to guide my clients through the process of change. As a counselor, I care deeply for my clients and I will bring all of my knowledge and skills to assist you in making the changes you wish to make. I practice with a focus on person-centered therapy and attachment-based theory to explain and understand human behavior. I am trained in EMDR, RTEP/GTEP, and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. I am working towards additional certifications in EMDR, EFT, and sex therapy.
I strive to empower each client to find and use new awareness to enhance and change their lives. I provide empathy, support, knowledge, and experience to guide my clients through the process of change. As a counselor, I care deeply for my clients and I will bring all of my knowledge and skills to assist you in making the changes you wish to make. I practice with a focus on person-centered therapy and attachment-based theory to explain and understand human behavior. I am trained in EMDR, RTEP/GTEP, and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. I am working towards additional certifications in EMDR, EFT, and sex therapy.
(480) 405-1531 View (480) 405-1531
Photo of Molly Foley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arizona
Molly Foley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an AASECT certified sex therapist. I treat a range of sexual challenges including: Mismatched Desire, Infidelity, Problems with Sexual Functioning (Early Ejaculation, Erectile Dysfunction, Painful Intercourse, etc.), and Sexual Trauma. Additionally, I have received advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) & IFIO (Intimacy From the Inside Out), and Perinatal Mental Health. My style of therapy is compassionate, empowering, and growth-provoking.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an AASECT certified sex therapist. I treat a range of sexual challenges including: Mismatched Desire, Infidelity, Problems with Sexual Functioning (Early Ejaculation, Erectile Dysfunction, Painful Intercourse, etc.), and Sexual Trauma. Additionally, I have received advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) & IFIO (Intimacy From the Inside Out), and Perinatal Mental Health. My style of therapy is compassionate, empowering, and growth-provoking.
(480) 573-7127 View (480) 573-7127
Photo of Rebecca Nelson Sex And Relationship Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Arizona
Rebecca Nelson Sex And Relationship Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I help people work towards improved connections within themselves, their relationships, and their sexuality.
I am passionate about working with couples and individuals around relationship concerns, intimacy, desire discrepancies/low desire, trauma, infidelity, anxiety, and sexual health & pleasure. I help couples and individuals increase insight and understanding of how their mind, body, and attachment styles influence their quality of life and relationships.
I help people work towards improved connections within themselves, their relationships, and their sexuality.
I am passionate about working with couples and individuals around relationship concerns, intimacy, desire discrepancies/low desire, trauma, infidelity, anxiety, and sexual health & pleasure. I help couples and individuals increase insight and understanding of how their mind, body, and attachment styles influence their quality of life and relationships.
(602) 854-8242 View (602) 854-8242
Photo of Scott Bennion, Pastoral Counselor in Arizona
Scott Bennion
Pastoral Counselor, DMin, BCPC, BCC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85020
Welcome to my faith-based online counseling services specializing in relationships, sexuality, and spirituality. With a compassionate approach, I'm here to support individuals and couples on their journey, seamlessly integrating Christian principles into our sessions. Whether you're navigating the complexities of reconciling faith and sexuality, overcoming relational hurdles, or seeking healing from past church experiences, I'm dedicated to providing guidance and unwavering support. As a Board-Certified Pastoral Counselor, I'm committed to fostering a safe, non-judgmental environment for clients from diverse backgrounds.
Welcome to my faith-based online counseling services specializing in relationships, sexuality, and spirituality. With a compassionate approach, I'm here to support individuals and couples on their journey, seamlessly integrating Christian principles into our sessions. Whether you're navigating the complexities of reconciling faith and sexuality, overcoming relational hurdles, or seeking healing from past church experiences, I'm dedicated to providing guidance and unwavering support. As a Board-Certified Pastoral Counselor, I'm committed to fostering a safe, non-judgmental environment for clients from diverse backgrounds.
(623) 254-4410 View (623) 254-4410
Photo of Jennifer Monninger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Jennifer Monninger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85003
I am a certified sex therapist with a focus on sexuality, intimacy, and relationships. I offer individual and couples counseling focused on sexual addiction, infidelity, polyamory, kink/BDSM, desire differences, sexual pain and other health concerns impacting sexuality, and generally helping individuals improve their understanding of their sexuality. I use a sex positive approach that works to reduce shame and improve communication around sex. I would love to hear your story and see what I can do to support you. I see clients in person in Phoenix, and through telehealth in NM.
I am a certified sex therapist with a focus on sexuality, intimacy, and relationships. I offer individual and couples counseling focused on sexual addiction, infidelity, polyamory, kink/BDSM, desire differences, sexual pain and other health concerns impacting sexuality, and generally helping individuals improve their understanding of their sexuality. I use a sex positive approach that works to reduce shame and improve communication around sex. I would love to hear your story and see what I can do to support you. I see clients in person in Phoenix, and through telehealth in NM.
(602) 755-3230 View (602) 755-3230
Photo of Renelle E Nelson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arizona
Renelle E Nelson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85286
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 Kali Kenar, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Kali Kenar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85043
Waitlist for new clients
I am LGBTQIA+ affirming, sex-positive, kink/BDSM friendly, poly/non-monogamy friendly, and Health At Every Size focused.
It is my passion to help clients get to the roots of their concerns for lasting change. In my experience, I see that trauma is at the core of most issues with anxiety, depression, addictions, eating disorders, or difficulties with sex and intimacy. I utilize EMDR therapy and make adaptations to personalize treatment for you.
I am LGBTQIA+ affirming, sex-positive, kink/BDSM friendly, poly/non-monogamy friendly, and Health At Every Size focused.
It is my passion to help clients get to the roots of their concerns for lasting change. In my experience, I see that trauma is at the core of most issues with anxiety, depression, addictions, eating disorders, or difficulties with sex and intimacy. I utilize EMDR therapy and make adaptations to personalize treatment for you.
(623) 526-2483 View (623) 526-2483
Photo of Isa Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arizona
Isa Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85253
As a Certified Sex and Relationship Therapist, I provide a safe, comfortable space to discuss and resolve difficult challenges. Together, we will work to create new possibilities, find hope and develop a plan so you can reach your personal and relational goals. I specialize in couples intimacy, communication, infidelity, eroticism and addressing specific sexual challenges. Some common challenges I treat include: Low Desire, Sexless or Awkward Sexual relationships, Erotic Conflicts, Early Ejaculation, Erectile Challenges, Pre-Orgasmic Women, Pain Associated with Sex, Compulsive Sexual Behaviors, Sexual Inhibitions, Sexual Trauma, Incompatible Fantasies, Alternative Love Styles, and Integrating Spirituality with Sexuality.
As a Certified Sex and Relationship Therapist, I provide a safe, comfortable space to discuss and resolve difficult challenges. Together, we will work to create new possibilities, find hope and develop a plan so you can reach your personal and relational goals. I specialize in couples intimacy, communication, infidelity, eroticism and addressing specific sexual challenges. Some common challenges I treat include: Low Desire, Sexless or Awkward Sexual relationships, Erotic Conflicts, Early Ejaculation, Erectile Challenges, Pre-Orgasmic Women, Pain Associated with Sex, Compulsive Sexual Behaviors, Sexual Inhibitions, Sexual Trauma, Incompatible Fantasies, Alternative Love Styles, and Integrating Spirituality with Sexuality.
(480) 426-8547 View (480) 426-8547
Photo of Elle Fultz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Elle Fultz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85201  (Online Only)
Challenges related to mental health, sexuality and addiction can be difficult to discuss.
Currently accepting new clients! Love, self-care, healthy relationships, and communication are essential for people to thrive. We all struggle from time to time in life with relationships, personal growth, setting boundaries, managing stress and difficult emotions. I can help you navigate through each of these challenges. It can be difficult to ask for help, but in doing so you are taking the first step in creating a healthier and more fulfilling life. If what you have tried isn’t working, reach out and get the guidance that you have been searching for. I welcome all identities, orientations, and backgrounds.
Challenges related to mental health, sexuality and addiction can be difficult to discuss.
Currently accepting new clients! Love, self-care, healthy relationships, and communication are essential for people to thrive. We all struggle from time to time in life with relationships, personal growth, setting boundaries, managing stress and difficult emotions. I can help you navigate through each of these challenges. It can be difficult to ask for help, but in doing so you are taking the first step in creating a healthier and more fulfilling life. If what you have tried isn’t working, reach out and get the guidance that you have been searching for. I welcome all identities, orientations, and backgrounds.
(480) 210-7723 View (480) 210-7723
Photo of Nicoletta Alessandra Carbone (Tomasetti), Counselor in Arizona
Nicoletta Alessandra Carbone (Tomasetti)
Counselor, LAC, MSPC, BHT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gold Canyon, AZ 85118
Discuss intimacy issues in marriage and relationships, questions about sexual functioning, concerns about a possible sex addiction or specific sexual dysfunctions.
Accepting NEW clients 2024. Our lives are like a story book. We can't keep writing our story if we keep turning back to pages we already wrote.. re-reading and ruminating on our past selves or flipping ahead to blank pages trying to predict a story that hasn't been written. Life transitions, stress, trauma, grief and SO many other variables can get in the way of writing our story. I want help you learn to be present and grounded in your life. Process past experiences and move forward
Discuss intimacy issues in marriage and relationships, questions about sexual functioning, concerns about a possible sex addiction or specific sexual dysfunctions.
Accepting NEW clients 2024. Our lives are like a story book. We can't keep writing our story if we keep turning back to pages we already wrote.. re-reading and ruminating on our past selves or flipping ahead to blank pages trying to predict a story that hasn't been written. Life transitions, stress, trauma, grief and SO many other variables can get in the way of writing our story. I want help you learn to be present and grounded in your life. Process past experiences and move forward
(480) 573-6916 View (480) 573-6916
Photo of Dr. Lisa L Gold, Counselor in Arizona
Dr. Lisa L Gold
Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMFT, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85207
Sex is a sacred partnership.
Psychedelic medicine is revolutionizing psychotherapy. Transformation is now possible more quickly and easily than ever before. Reset and reconnect with yourself and your partner. Create the love and life you desire! I offer preparation, facilitation, and integration of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy and concierge retreats for individuals and couples.. Join me in Hawaii, Utah, Arizona, or Colorado for the ultimate corrective experience of the 6 foundational ketamine sessions, as well as maintenance sessions. Heal, create, and strengthen your emotional, sexual, and spiritual connection.
Sex is a sacred partnership.
Psychedelic medicine is revolutionizing psychotherapy. Transformation is now possible more quickly and easily than ever before. Reset and reconnect with yourself and your partner. Create the love and life you desire! I offer preparation, facilitation, and integration of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy and concierge retreats for individuals and couples.. Join me in Hawaii, Utah, Arizona, or Colorado for the ultimate corrective experience of the 6 foundational ketamine sessions, as well as maintenance sessions. Heal, create, and strengthen your emotional, sexual, and spiritual connection.
(480) 630-4081 View (480) 630-4081
Photo of Kim Glenn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Kim Glenn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85253  (Online Only)
As an AASECT certified sex and relationship therapist, I believe our sexuality, and our relationships with others are important contributors to our overall well-being. When we are out of sync with ourselves, or with the ones we love, we may experience anxiety, depression, fear, and shame. I provide a nurturing place where individuals and couples can learn to experience joy, curiosity, and acceptance of themselves, and with their significant others. I specialize in sexual challenges such as mismatched desire, low or absent desire, premature ejaculation, vaginismus, inability to achieve orgasm, and erotic injuries such as infidelity.
As an AASECT certified sex and relationship therapist, I believe our sexuality, and our relationships with others are important contributors to our overall well-being. When we are out of sync with ourselves, or with the ones we love, we may experience anxiety, depression, fear, and shame. I provide a nurturing place where individuals and couples can learn to experience joy, curiosity, and acceptance of themselves, and with their significant others. I specialize in sexual challenges such as mismatched desire, low or absent desire, premature ejaculation, vaginismus, inability to achieve orgasm, and erotic injuries such as infidelity.
(480) 418-2945 View (480) 418-2945
Photo of Dorothy Barnes, Counselor in Arizona
Dorothy Barnes
Counselor, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85050
I am a certified sex therapist with AASECT and a Level II Trained EMDR therapist.
I always start with where a client is and move through a process of self awareness and discovery that brings about lasting change and newfound joy. While that is not an easy process it is a journey I have found worth taking in my own life and feel honored to take in another's. I do not believe in a "cookie cutter" approach to recovery or self actualization. Each person I work with brings a special "psychological fingerprint" that encompasses both their past and their present life experiences. I look forward to traveling the path with you.
I am a certified sex therapist with AASECT and a Level II Trained EMDR therapist.
I always start with where a client is and move through a process of self awareness and discovery that brings about lasting change and newfound joy. While that is not an easy process it is a journey I have found worth taking in my own life and feel honored to take in another's. I do not believe in a "cookie cutter" approach to recovery or self actualization. Each person I work with brings a special "psychological fingerprint" that encompasses both their past and their present life experiences. I look forward to traveling the path with you.
(480) 818-4936 View (480) 818-4936
Photo of Heather Hillenbrand, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arizona
Heather Hillenbrand
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85253
As a Sex and Relationship Therapist, I believe it is each person's birthright to have the knowledge, understanding, and support to achieve freedom of sexual expression. By offering a safe, collaborative, welcoming space, I provide support to individuals, couples, and relationships of all types for challenges within the area of sexuality. I provide a sex-positive therapy room affirming all sexual orientations and relationship types.
As a Sex and Relationship Therapist, I believe it is each person's birthright to have the knowledge, understanding, and support to achieve freedom of sexual expression. By offering a safe, collaborative, welcoming space, I provide support to individuals, couples, and relationships of all types for challenges within the area of sexuality. I provide a sex-positive therapy room affirming all sexual orientations and relationship types.
(480) 637-2185 View (480) 637-2185
Photo of Kayla Kuykendall, Counselor in Arizona
Kayla Kuykendall
Counselor, LAC, MS, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
I work with individuals, couples, and facilitate workshops on sexual health and sex related challenges. Are you dealing with sexual or emotional concerns, perhaps about sexual shame, trauma, relationship conflicts, or identity conflicts? I assist my clients utilizing a therapeutic style that is affirming, sex positive, and empathetic to people of all backgrounds. I help individuals discover their erotic blueprints, explore their fantasies, and incorporate their authentic erotic selves into their relationships. I can also help you by providing treatment of sexual dysfunctions, loss of desire, painful sex, and problems with arousal.
I work with individuals, couples, and facilitate workshops on sexual health and sex related challenges. Are you dealing with sexual or emotional concerns, perhaps about sexual shame, trauma, relationship conflicts, or identity conflicts? I assist my clients utilizing a therapeutic style that is affirming, sex positive, and empathetic to people of all backgrounds. I help individuals discover their erotic blueprints, explore their fantasies, and incorporate their authentic erotic selves into their relationships. I can also help you by providing treatment of sexual dysfunctions, loss of desire, painful sex, and problems with arousal.
(602) 786-7531 View (602) 786-7531
Photo of Kresta Werner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Kresta Werner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, CCST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85712
I am a Certified Couples Sex Therapist (CCST) utilizing a whole-bodied/somatic and sex-positive approach to therapy with individuals and couples.
Relationship 101 is captured beautifully by Esther Perel: "The quality of our relationships determines the quality of our lives." If you long to learn how to nourish, strengthen, and/or repair your relationships therapy can facilitate clearer and compassionate communication between you and your loved ones. I'm sex-positive and believe that a relationship is like an intimate dance in which mutual partnership depends on healthy communication, curiosity and vulnerability. If you feel stuck in your relationship, are dating, or taking some much needed time off, therapy can play a supportive role in deepening connection to self and other.
I am a Certified Couples Sex Therapist (CCST) utilizing a whole-bodied/somatic and sex-positive approach to therapy with individuals and couples.
Relationship 101 is captured beautifully by Esther Perel: "The quality of our relationships determines the quality of our lives." If you long to learn how to nourish, strengthen, and/or repair your relationships therapy can facilitate clearer and compassionate communication between you and your loved ones. I'm sex-positive and believe that a relationship is like an intimate dance in which mutual partnership depends on healthy communication, curiosity and vulnerability. If you feel stuck in your relationship, are dating, or taking some much needed time off, therapy can play a supportive role in deepening connection to self and other.
(520) 210-5972 View (520) 210-5972
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.