Photo of Angela Cochneuer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Angela Cochneuer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CST
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64119
I am a sex positive therapist who specializes in trauma, queer and trans life, kink, sexual dysfunction, neurodivergence, different types of relationship structures, perinatal/birth/reproductive wellness, perfectionism, control, attachment, trust, identity, vulnerability, grief, personality disorders, authenticity, and narcissism and narcissistic healing.
What it’s like to come in for therapy? Therapy is about sharing vulnerability that you may not have experienced before, or at least not experienced positively before. We’re not friends, but we have a connection that we build that is professionally intimate and caring. Therapy is about analysis and making meaning of things that you have gone through and are presently dealing with. Sometimes that presents challenges to a person, things that are occurring with us are tough to look at and face- that’s why I’m here. I will help you look at things that are hard to take in and help you to either accept and appreciate or accept and change.
I am a sex positive therapist who specializes in trauma, queer and trans life, kink, sexual dysfunction, neurodivergence, different types of relationship structures, perinatal/birth/reproductive wellness, perfectionism, control, attachment, trust, identity, vulnerability, grief, personality disorders, authenticity, and narcissism and narcissistic healing.
What it’s like to come in for therapy? Therapy is about sharing vulnerability that you may not have experienced before, or at least not experienced positively before. We’re not friends, but we have a connection that we build that is professionally intimate and caring. Therapy is about analysis and making meaning of things that you have gone through and are presently dealing with. Sometimes that presents challenges to a person, things that are occurring with us are tough to look at and face- that’s why I’m here. I will help you look at things that are hard to take in and help you to either accept and appreciate or accept and change.
(816) 839-4938 View (816) 839-4938
Photo of Whitney B Ide Counseling, LLC, Counselor in Missouri
Whitney B Ide Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Joseph, MO 64506
I welcome any problem a person is having, but have special interest and training in the areas of addiction (substances, gambling, sex, eating, gaming, etc.
Making the decision to seek help is the the first step towards living a healthier, happier life. The second step is finding the right therapist. I believe that success in therapy is dependent on the strength of the relationship between the counselor and client. I view myself as an advocate, a catalyst for change, and an objective sounding board, rather than an expert who can listen to your problems for an hour and then magically know how to run your life better than you do. You are the expert on you! My job is to help you learn how to help yourself.
I welcome any problem a person is having, but have special interest and training in the areas of addiction (substances, gambling, sex, eating, gaming, etc.
Making the decision to seek help is the the first step towards living a healthier, happier life. The second step is finding the right therapist. I believe that success in therapy is dependent on the strength of the relationship between the counselor and client. I view myself as an advocate, a catalyst for change, and an objective sounding board, rather than an expert who can listen to your problems for an hour and then magically know how to run your life better than you do. You are the expert on you! My job is to help you learn how to help yourself.
(816) 482-3675 View (816) 482-3675
Photo of Shannon Ethridge-Myers, M.A. in Missouri
Shannon Ethridge-Myers, M.A.
MA
Verified Verified
Fair Grove, MO 65648
I enjoy helping people overcome the sexual and emotional hurdles that hold them back -- sex addiction, porn/fantasy addiction, infidelity/betrayal, body image issues, sexual abuse, spiritual guilt, low self-esteem, lack of sexual confidence, family of origin issues, trust issues, etc. I believe EVERYONE deserves to be a sexually connected, sexually satisfied partner. Healthy sexual relationships can heal a multitude of wounds and bond a couple together in an incredibly synergistic way if they are both willing to do the work to overcome their own fears, anxieties, hurts, and hang-ups.
I enjoy helping people overcome the sexual and emotional hurdles that hold them back -- sex addiction, porn/fantasy addiction, infidelity/betrayal, body image issues, sexual abuse, spiritual guilt, low self-esteem, lack of sexual confidence, family of origin issues, trust issues, etc. I believe EVERYONE deserves to be a sexually connected, sexually satisfied partner. Healthy sexual relationships can heal a multitude of wounds and bond a couple together in an incredibly synergistic way if they are both willing to do the work to overcome their own fears, anxieties, hurts, and hang-ups.
(417) 212-5409 View (417) 212-5409
Photo of Linda Weiner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Linda Weiner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63130
Waitlist for new clients
As a licensed sex therapist I know your sexuality is a legitimate concern and believe that it is your right to receive expert knowledge when seeking assistance for relationship or sexual difficulties. I offer psychotherapy for general concerns, relationship coaching, couples' intensives and retreats as well as educational opportunities for professionals and groups. My couples' intensives and retreats teach and support ongoing intimacy in your relationship through mind/body connection and heart-centered relationship skills. My individual and couples therapy is designed to meet your goals and is a mutual undertaking between us.
As a licensed sex therapist I know your sexuality is a legitimate concern and believe that it is your right to receive expert knowledge when seeking assistance for relationship or sexual difficulties. I offer psychotherapy for general concerns, relationship coaching, couples' intensives and retreats as well as educational opportunities for professionals and groups. My couples' intensives and retreats teach and support ongoing intimacy in your relationship through mind/body connection and heart-centered relationship skills. My individual and couples therapy is designed to meet your goals and is a mutual undertaking between us.
View
Photo of Jessica Naslund, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Jessica Naslund
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63125
I am an AASECT Certified Sexuality Educator Supervisor and Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with individuals of all abilities in areas of sexuality, gender identity, relationship building, intimacy, communication and trauma.
I am an AASECT Certified Sexuality Educator Supervisor and Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with individuals of all abilities in areas of sexuality, gender identity, relationship building, intimacy, communication and trauma.
(314) 690-1214 View (314) 690-1214
Photo of Nigel Cook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Nigel Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63130
Sexuality should be celebrated! Society often makes it difficult for people to express themselves in this way, and therefore I try to offer a space for clients to freely explore all aspects of their sexuality without judgement. In my practice, I work collaboratively with clients to develop sexual communication skills, process shame associated with sexuality, and learn how to practice safer (more pleasurable) sex. I have experience with many types of clients, including LGBTQ+ people, femme-people, sex workers, and people discovering themselves later in life.
Sexuality should be celebrated! Society often makes it difficult for people to express themselves in this way, and therefore I try to offer a space for clients to freely explore all aspects of their sexuality without judgement. In my practice, I work collaboratively with clients to develop sexual communication skills, process shame associated with sexuality, and learn how to practice safer (more pleasurable) sex. I have experience with many types of clients, including LGBTQ+ people, femme-people, sex workers, and people discovering themselves later in life.
(539) 245-6060 View (539) 245-6060
Photo of Keegan Esping, Pre-Licensed Professional in Missouri
Keegan Esping
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63118
Keegan knows the road that leads you into the counseling room can be difficult and painful. Whether the catalyst is some form of trauma, abuse, grief, challenges involving sex and sexuality or a desire to seek greater health and self-awareness, this decision is courageous. In counseling, Keegan blends elements of person-centered theory, internal family systems and knowledge about trauma, attachment and family dynamics into an integrative holistic approach.
Keegan knows the road that leads you into the counseling room can be difficult and painful. Whether the catalyst is some form of trauma, abuse, grief, challenges involving sex and sexuality or a desire to seek greater health and self-awareness, this decision is courageous. In counseling, Keegan blends elements of person-centered theory, internal family systems and knowledge about trauma, attachment and family dynamics into an integrative holistic approach.
(314) 907-0874 View (314) 907-0874
Photo of Paul Busk, Marriage & Family Therapist in Missouri
Paul Busk
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LCMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64055
I have experience working with families, individuals and adolescents struggling with issues related to depression, anxiety, personality disorders and sexuality, using emotionally focused family therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Keeping passion and connection in relationships while also thriving as individuals is a goal that many of us have. Balancing these aspects of life can be difficult, especially when life stressors, mental or emotional disorders, or trauma present themselves. My goal is to help clients achieve their goals of connection and personal growth, while challenging them to act on the best parts of themselves. I am passionate about working with couples struggling with intimacy and desire issues. My approach in working with couples centers on differentiation based therapies and encourages both individual and couple growth.
I have experience working with families, individuals and adolescents struggling with issues related to depression, anxiety, personality disorders and sexuality, using emotionally focused family therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Keeping passion and connection in relationships while also thriving as individuals is a goal that many of us have. Balancing these aspects of life can be difficult, especially when life stressors, mental or emotional disorders, or trauma present themselves. My goal is to help clients achieve their goals of connection and personal growth, while challenging them to act on the best parts of themselves. I am passionate about working with couples struggling with intimacy and desire issues. My approach in working with couples centers on differentiation based therapies and encourages both individual and couple growth.
(816) 209-1329 View (816) 209-1329
Photo of David T Koch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
David T Koch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63141
My clinical passions include sex therapy - treating vaginismus, erectile dysfunction, premature and delayed ejaculation & low desire - anxiety, navigating church hurt & spiritual questions.
If you are anything like me, you have had a moment in your life when you asked yourself "How can I make the pain stop?" For me, therapy is one option for hurting individuals who want to work through pain to find answers to life's experiences & questions. I have had the privilege & challenge to walk alongside individuals, couples and families working to initiate the road to recovery that is so often littered with significant loss & conflict. If you are thinking of starting therapy and are feeling really anxious or hopeless, you are not alone!
My clinical passions include sex therapy - treating vaginismus, erectile dysfunction, premature and delayed ejaculation & low desire - anxiety, navigating church hurt & spiritual questions.
If you are anything like me, you have had a moment in your life when you asked yourself "How can I make the pain stop?" For me, therapy is one option for hurting individuals who want to work through pain to find answers to life's experiences & questions. I have had the privilege & challenge to walk alongside individuals, couples and families working to initiate the road to recovery that is so often littered with significant loss & conflict. If you are thinking of starting therapy and are feeling really anxious or hopeless, you are not alone!
(314) 403-7588 View (314) 403-7588
Photo of Monica Houttuin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Monica Houttuin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST, Sex, Therapi
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Union, MO 63084
Monica Houttuin is nationally certified sex therapy and a trained couples therapist.
Are you disconnected from your partner and frustrated or worse pained at feeling like just roommates, either icy or too spicey (and not the good kind)? Are you struggling to hang on in crisis? You have so much on the line, help and healing are possible and treatment for your broken hearts is within reach and available to you. Heal your hurting relationship and keep your family and partner. Why suffer any longer when you can heal your hearts, build a bridge of connection to just feel happy again. Scientific methods that heal and transform couples in days, weeks not years of work.
Monica Houttuin is nationally certified sex therapy and a trained couples therapist.
Are you disconnected from your partner and frustrated or worse pained at feeling like just roommates, either icy or too spicey (and not the good kind)? Are you struggling to hang on in crisis? You have so much on the line, help and healing are possible and treatment for your broken hearts is within reach and available to you. Heal your hurting relationship and keep your family and partner. Why suffer any longer when you can heal your hearts, build a bridge of connection to just feel happy again. Scientific methods that heal and transform couples in days, weeks not years of work.
(636) 452-7677 View (636) 452-7677
Photo of Tyler J Sparks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Tyler J Sparks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCSAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kirkwood, MO 63122
I also have a special passion for helping the spouses of sex addicts wade through the crisis and trauma of discovering their partner's infidelity.
Men. Tired of losing the battle to porn and sexual acting out? I specialize in helping men break free from sexual enslavement through individual and group therapy. Because I am passionate about this area I always have groups forming. If you are ready to take the next step toward freedom, contact me.
I also have a special passion for helping the spouses of sex addicts wade through the crisis and trauma of discovering their partner's infidelity.
Men. Tired of losing the battle to porn and sexual acting out? I specialize in helping men break free from sexual enslavement through individual and group therapy. Because I am passionate about this area I always have groups forming. If you are ready to take the next step toward freedom, contact me.
(314) 881-8538 View (314) 881-8538
Photo of Chuck Franks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Chuck Franks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, CST, CST-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64116
I work from a sexual health model which doesn't pathologize sexuality.
My clients find it empowering to not just talk about a problem but also to create ways of coping through learning new skills and allowing new perspectives. I help clients who want to be truly authentic. Sexuality and the pursuit of our sexual health is important as we strive to integrate our expression into our relationships. I help individuals incorporate their true selves into their relationships. My specialties are sexual problems, issues of sexual identity/orientation, consensual non-monogamy, out of control sexual behavior more commonly known as sex or porn addiction.
I work from a sexual health model which doesn't pathologize sexuality.
My clients find it empowering to not just talk about a problem but also to create ways of coping through learning new skills and allowing new perspectives. I help clients who want to be truly authentic. Sexuality and the pursuit of our sexual health is important as we strive to integrate our expression into our relationships. I help individuals incorporate their true selves into their relationships. My specialties are sexual problems, issues of sexual identity/orientation, consensual non-monogamy, out of control sexual behavior more commonly known as sex or porn addiction.
(816) 925-9509 View (816) 925-9509
Photo of Healing Exchange LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Healing Exchange LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Are you ready to set healthy boundaries in your relationships? Have you been wanting to explore your sexuality but didn't know where to start? Is your non-monogamous relationship experiencing friction? Maybe you are the survivor, strong friend, and problem solver who appears to have it all together. Yet on the inside you feel overwhelmed while also wondering, "Is this worth going to therapy for?" If your boundaries leave you questioning yourself, if you want to explore your sexuality, or if you and your partner(s) want support, it's worth going to therapy for. Our relationship, sexuality, and trauma experts are here for you.
Are you ready to set healthy boundaries in your relationships? Have you been wanting to explore your sexuality but didn't know where to start? Is your non-monogamous relationship experiencing friction? Maybe you are the survivor, strong friend, and problem solver who appears to have it all together. Yet on the inside you feel overwhelmed while also wondering, "Is this worth going to therapy for?" If your boundaries leave you questioning yourself, if you want to explore your sexuality, or if you and your partner(s) want support, it's worth going to therapy for. Our relationship, sexuality, and trauma experts are here for you.
(314) 593-2416 View (314) 593-2416
Photo of Dr. A. P. Carmichael, Marriage & Family Therapist in Missouri
Dr. A. P. Carmichael
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MEd, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Waitlist for new clients
I hold a PhD in Human Sexuality Research as well as a master’s degree in Human Sexuality Education from Widener University in Philadelphia.
Relationships are part of what makes us human. We thrive when connected with others. I am passionate about helping people create and maintain healthy and loving relationships. I work with couples, families, and individuals and have strong experience working with LGBTQ clients. I make it a priority to create a safe space for all of my clients. It is through this atmosphere of acceptance that we can work together to create true change and growth. I work with individuals, families and couples who are going through a crisis, or those who are simply looking to strengthen their relationships.
I hold a PhD in Human Sexuality Research as well as a master’s degree in Human Sexuality Education from Widener University in Philadelphia.
Relationships are part of what makes us human. We thrive when connected with others. I am passionate about helping people create and maintain healthy and loving relationships. I work with couples, families, and individuals and have strong experience working with LGBTQ clients. I make it a priority to create a safe space for all of my clients. It is through this atmosphere of acceptance that we can work together to create true change and growth. I work with individuals, families and couples who are going through a crisis, or those who are simply looking to strengthen their relationships.
(314) 682-4859 View (314) 682-4859
Photo of Carolyn Tinker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Carolyn Tinker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
I have also attained certificates in Marriage and Family Therapy and Christian Sex Therapy.
Carolyn operates from a systems way of thinking. I believe that there are many aspects that can affect each individual and exploring these aspects best helps the individual. I use therapies such as CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, EFT with couples and other modalities. I work with children ages 10+, adolescents, individuals, couples and families. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, divorce, marital separation, premarital counseling, marriage counseling, sexual issues including addiction, affairs, pornography, abuse and LGBTQ+, grief and other situations that may arise.
I have also attained certificates in Marriage and Family Therapy and Christian Sex Therapy.
Carolyn operates from a systems way of thinking. I believe that there are many aspects that can affect each individual and exploring these aspects best helps the individual. I use therapies such as CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, EFT with couples and other modalities. I work with children ages 10+, adolescents, individuals, couples and families. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, divorce, marital separation, premarital counseling, marriage counseling, sexual issues including addiction, affairs, pornography, abuse and LGBTQ+, grief and other situations that may arise.
(636) 306-4196 View (636) 306-4196
Photo of Relationship Gender And Sexuality Therapy Megan MacKenzie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Relationship Gender And Sexuality Therapy Megan MacKenzie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
As a relationship, sex, and gender therapist, I help couples, relationships, and individuals explore identities, navigate non-monogamy, and experience greater pleasure and intimacy. I am passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ folks in exploring and healing from the negative impacts of internalized homophobia, transphobia, and racism as they often manifest in shame, guilt, and low self-esteem.
As a relationship, sex, and gender therapist, I help couples, relationships, and individuals explore identities, navigate non-monogamy, and experience greater pleasure and intimacy. I am passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ folks in exploring and healing from the negative impacts of internalized homophobia, transphobia, and racism as they often manifest in shame, guilt, and low self-esteem.
(314) 626-0543 View (314) 626-0543
Photo of Karissa Curtis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Karissa Curtis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
I am a certified sex therapist (CST) through the American Board of Christian Sex Therapists and an approved licensure supervisor.
I believe people's pain is holy and sacred ground and that every individual's story has value. I work with individuals and couples, and I'm passionate about understanding my clients' struggles and giving them hope for healing and redemption. In coming to counseling, my clients can be assured that I'll provide a safe, non-judgmental space for them to grow and find healing. Of particular interest to me is helping people who struggle with relationship difficulties, sexual intimacy issues, vaginismus, sexual shame, religious and sexual identity conflicts, spirituality, and conflict and boundary issues.
I am a certified sex therapist (CST) through the American Board of Christian Sex Therapists and an approved licensure supervisor.
I believe people's pain is holy and sacred ground and that every individual's story has value. I work with individuals and couples, and I'm passionate about understanding my clients' struggles and giving them hope for healing and redemption. In coming to counseling, my clients can be assured that I'll provide a safe, non-judgmental space for them to grow and find healing. Of particular interest to me is helping people who struggle with relationship difficulties, sexual intimacy issues, vaginismus, sexual shame, religious and sexual identity conflicts, spirituality, and conflict and boundary issues.
(636) 306-3471 View (636) 306-3471
Photo of Nick Harper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Nick Harper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63155  (Online Only)
As a queer-identified, trauma-informed, and sex-positive professional, my expertise lies in supporting individuals living with HIV, addressing substance use disorders, and working with a broad spectrum of relationship dynamics.
Ever feel like you're navigating through a fog when it comes to understanding your emotions, needs, or desires? Imagine a life where you truly connect with yourself and those around you, where past traumas become stepping stones to a brighter future. At Inclusive Therapy and Consulting Services LLC, we don't just offer therapy — we open doors to a transformative experience. Specializing in supporting the LGBTQ+ community, individuals living with HIV, and their allies, our mission is to bring you world-class psychotherapy that's not just compassionate but deeply tailored to your unique journey. Early morning appointments 7am EST.
As a queer-identified, trauma-informed, and sex-positive professional, my expertise lies in supporting individuals living with HIV, addressing substance use disorders, and working with a broad spectrum of relationship dynamics.
Ever feel like you're navigating through a fog when it comes to understanding your emotions, needs, or desires? Imagine a life where you truly connect with yourself and those around you, where past traumas become stepping stones to a brighter future. At Inclusive Therapy and Consulting Services LLC, we don't just offer therapy — we open doors to a transformative experience. Specializing in supporting the LGBTQ+ community, individuals living with HIV, and their allies, our mission is to bring you world-class psychotherapy that's not just compassionate but deeply tailored to your unique journey. Early morning appointments 7am EST.
(303) 493-9574 View (303) 493-9574
Photo of Cassie Willnauer, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Missouri
Cassie Willnauer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64101
Most of my clients come to me because they’re struggling with their sex life and they’re pretty sure it’s all their fault. They’re not having the kind of sex that they want or sex has just become an enormous problem in their relationship. I often find that at the root of these issues surrounding sexuality is shame. Sometimes that shame is connected to: poor self-esteem or body image, believing you don’t deserve sexual pleasure, a belief that whatever you’re into is just too "weird" and you want to feel “normal” but can’t shake this particular desire, or societal & cultural expectations of gender roles.
Most of my clients come to me because they’re struggling with their sex life and they’re pretty sure it’s all their fault. They’re not having the kind of sex that they want or sex has just become an enormous problem in their relationship. I often find that at the root of these issues surrounding sexuality is shame. Sometimes that shame is connected to: poor self-esteem or body image, believing you don’t deserve sexual pleasure, a belief that whatever you’re into is just too "weird" and you want to feel “normal” but can’t shake this particular desire, or societal & cultural expectations of gender roles.
(913) 270-0975 View (913) 270-0975
Photo of Addie Cutler, Pre-Licensed Professional in Missouri
Addie Cutler
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64055
I work with individuals and couples on issues including infidelity repair, developing healthy conflict skills, sex and intimacy, premarital/precommitment therapy, and reigniting or deepening connection.
You wish your relationship and life felt more connected, authentic, and whole. You desire to show up as your best self, but find that it’s so much harder than it should be. You tell yourself that you should forgive, move on, commit; and that you should have changed already! You feel bogged down by anxiety and fear, wondering if things can really change. You hope to find deep connection and healing, and hope that therapy is the next step on your path. Let’s walk together toward the life you desire!
I work with individuals and couples on issues including infidelity repair, developing healthy conflict skills, sex and intimacy, premarital/precommitment therapy, and reigniting or deepening connection.
You wish your relationship and life felt more connected, authentic, and whole. You desire to show up as your best self, but find that it’s so much harder than it should be. You tell yourself that you should forgive, move on, commit; and that you should have changed already! You feel bogged down by anxiety and fear, wondering if things can really change. You hope to find deep connection and healing, and hope that therapy is the next step on your path. Let’s walk together toward the life you desire!
(816) 623-1557 View (816) 623-1557
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.