Photo of Allison Sturges, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98103, WA
Allison Sturges
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
Specialties: I specialize in working with those who identify as LGBTQ+, gender affirming therapy, ENM clients, sex therapy clients, and couples experiencing problems surrounding communication and intimacy.
I am accepting new clients at this time in WA, OR and ID. I offer a relaxed atmosphere in therapy where humor and lightheartedness can be incorporated into our professional relationship, when appropriate. I work with individuals, teens and couples who are seeking positive change in their lives and relationships. Ultimately, you will get the best idea of what a therapist is like by meeting them, so I encourage you to reach out to set up a free 15 minute consultation so that we might meet and see if we are a good fit. Research shows that the therapeutic relationship is one of the most reliable predictors of therapeutic effectiveness.
Specialties: I specialize in working with those who identify as LGBTQ+, gender affirming therapy, ENM clients, sex therapy clients, and couples experiencing problems surrounding communication and intimacy.
I am accepting new clients at this time in WA, OR and ID. I offer a relaxed atmosphere in therapy where humor and lightheartedness can be incorporated into our professional relationship, when appropriate. I work with individuals, teens and couples who are seeking positive change in their lives and relationships. Ultimately, you will get the best idea of what a therapist is like by meeting them, so I encourage you to reach out to set up a free 15 minute consultation so that we might meet and see if we are a good fit. Research shows that the therapeutic relationship is one of the most reliable predictors of therapeutic effectiveness.
(425) 510-5386 View (425) 510-5386
Photo of Jenny Barth, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98103, WA
Jenny Barth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
I have experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, substance abuse, grief, couples therapy and sex and intimacy.
Therapy is a deeply personal process and I consider it a privilege to be invited to be a part of your journey in healing and improving your life and relationships. I see therapy as a collaborative process in which I support you in identifying your goals for therapy and assist you in achieving those goals. I work with individuals, couples and young adults. I am physically located in Seattle, but also licensed in Utah and able to provide tele-health services to clients located outside Seattle.
I have experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, substance abuse, grief, couples therapy and sex and intimacy.
Therapy is a deeply personal process and I consider it a privilege to be invited to be a part of your journey in healing and improving your life and relationships. I see therapy as a collaborative process in which I support you in identifying your goals for therapy and assist you in achieving those goals. I work with individuals, couples and young adults. I am physically located in Seattle, but also licensed in Utah and able to provide tele-health services to clients located outside Seattle.
(206) 800-8939 View (206) 800-8939
Photo of Natassja Barnes, Counselor in 98103, WA
Natassja Barnes
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
As a Sex Therapist, my approach engages a mixture of humanistic, feminist, and social justice perspectives that work together to see an individual within all the roles and identities they possess. I feel passionate about working with those who are concerned with topics surrounding women's sexuality, LGBTQIA issues, and anti-oppression work. I believe the answers on how to get through hardships reside within us, and I am committed to your personal journey of healing or transformation and what that means for you. My role allows me to become an ally with the healing power of human connection to better your relationships and life.
As a Sex Therapist, my approach engages a mixture of humanistic, feminist, and social justice perspectives that work together to see an individual within all the roles and identities they possess. I feel passionate about working with those who are concerned with topics surrounding women's sexuality, LGBTQIA issues, and anti-oppression work. I believe the answers on how to get through hardships reside within us, and I am committed to your personal journey of healing or transformation and what that means for you. My role allows me to become an ally with the healing power of human connection to better your relationships and life.
(425) 409-2043 View (425) 409-2043
Photo of Lencsi Angel, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98103, WA
Lencsi Angel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
I work with individuals and couples to improve relationships, mental health and overall life satisfaction. I am also an AASECT certified sex therapist and work with those looking to heal or improve their sexual and intimate well-being. With compassionate care and guidance, I am here to support you in overcoming the challenges that have you feeling stuck in life. We will explore what thoughts, feelings, behaviors and patterns may be holding you back and I will assist you in gaining valuable insight and finding solutions.
I work with individuals and couples to improve relationships, mental health and overall life satisfaction. I am also an AASECT certified sex therapist and work with those looking to heal or improve their sexual and intimate well-being. With compassionate care and guidance, I am here to support you in overcoming the challenges that have you feeling stuck in life. We will explore what thoughts, feelings, behaviors and patterns may be holding you back and I will assist you in gaining valuable insight and finding solutions.
(844) 805-9731 View (844) 805-9731
Photo of Online Counseling & Mindful Sex Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98103, WA
Online Counseling & Mindful Sex Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
36 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
It also helps during sex, to increase pleasure and connection.
Are you looking for a safe and supportive place to talk? A place to talk to someone about relational issues or sexual issues? If so, I can help you learn to slow down and listen to your deepest truths, listen to your body, mind and spirit. This kind of support can increase your clarity and self knowledge, and improve your communication skills, so you stop neglecting your inner voice and needs. Stop struggling to ask for what you want and need in your relationships, and start to feel heard. If you haven't been able to make the changes you know you need too, this is the time to understand your blocks and move in a new direction.
It also helps during sex, to increase pleasure and connection.
Are you looking for a safe and supportive place to talk? A place to talk to someone about relational issues or sexual issues? If so, I can help you learn to slow down and listen to your deepest truths, listen to your body, mind and spirit. This kind of support can increase your clarity and self knowledge, and improve your communication skills, so you stop neglecting your inner voice and needs. Stop struggling to ask for what you want and need in your relationships, and start to feel heard. If you haven't been able to make the changes you know you need too, this is the time to understand your blocks and move in a new direction.
(206) 569-6983 View (206) 569-6983
Photo of Justin Pere, Counselor in 98103, WA
Justin Pere
Counselor, LMHC, CST, CGT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
As a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) and Certified Gottman Therapist (CGT), I have been hired by The Gottman Institute to consult with them on sex and sexuality.
Now Accepting New Clients! Our team of 7 therapists - Corey, Lisa, Stephen, Misa, Maggie, Lindsey and myself - can help you, with the specialty of our practice, Clarity Counseling Seattle, being Relationships / Couples / Marriage / Premarital and Sex / Sexuality/Intimacy. Couples often use our website (ClarityCounselingSeattle.com) to start receiving help with communication, conflict, and deepening emotional & sexual intimacy. The individuals who often seek us out are looking to feel less stress, less worry, less depression/anxiety, and wanting to experience more joy, contentment, and peace within themselves.
As a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) and Certified Gottman Therapist (CGT), I have been hired by The Gottman Institute to consult with them on sex and sexuality.
Now Accepting New Clients! Our team of 7 therapists - Corey, Lisa, Stephen, Misa, Maggie, Lindsey and myself - can help you, with the specialty of our practice, Clarity Counseling Seattle, being Relationships / Couples / Marriage / Premarital and Sex / Sexuality/Intimacy. Couples often use our website (ClarityCounselingSeattle.com) to start receiving help with communication, conflict, and deepening emotional & sexual intimacy. The individuals who often seek us out are looking to feel less stress, less worry, less depression/anxiety, and wanting to experience more joy, contentment, and peace within themselves.
(206) 855-3934 View (206) 855-3934
Photo of Emily Visser, Counselor in 98103, WA
Emily Visser
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
If your intimate relationships feel like a mysterious puzzle, you're not alone. Sex and intimacy issues can cause people to feel disconnected, alone and ashamed. If you're seeking therapy to work through issues related to sex and intimacy, meeting with a therapist who specializes in sex and intimate relationships can provide unique, compassionate support when working with sex related concerns. Maybe you're looking for help reconnecting with your partner, or perhaps you're experiencing pain during sex. You can trust that you will be met with compassion, patience and respect as you explore and grow in your relationships.
If your intimate relationships feel like a mysterious puzzle, you're not alone. Sex and intimacy issues can cause people to feel disconnected, alone and ashamed. If you're seeking therapy to work through issues related to sex and intimacy, meeting with a therapist who specializes in sex and intimate relationships can provide unique, compassionate support when working with sex related concerns. Maybe you're looking for help reconnecting with your partner, or perhaps you're experiencing pain during sex. You can trust that you will be met with compassion, patience and respect as you explore and grow in your relationships.
(425) 689-1821 View (425) 689-1821
Photo of Alexys Gonzalez, Counselor in 98103, WA
Alexys Gonzalez
Counselor, LMHCA, ATR-P, ST, SE
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
My multi-disciplinary approach to sex therapy is influenced by my training in art therapy, sex education, painting, philosophy, and yoga.
I’m a queer, mixed-race (SE Asian & Hispanic), neurodivergent, nonbinary femme passionate about helping clients access their creative healing energy to best help clients engage in authentic living and loving with themselves, others, and the world around them. I believe healing exists on a spectrum and hope to help clients find deeper understanding and healing through authentic connection, curiosity, and conversation. My approach is non-judgmental, non-linear, client-centered, educational, trauma-informed, and intentional. I offer an intersectional, anti-oppressive, holistic, and creative experience in therapy.
My multi-disciplinary approach to sex therapy is influenced by my training in art therapy, sex education, painting, philosophy, and yoga.
I’m a queer, mixed-race (SE Asian & Hispanic), neurodivergent, nonbinary femme passionate about helping clients access their creative healing energy to best help clients engage in authentic living and loving with themselves, others, and the world around them. I believe healing exists on a spectrum and hope to help clients find deeper understanding and healing through authentic connection, curiosity, and conversation. My approach is non-judgmental, non-linear, client-centered, educational, trauma-informed, and intentional. I offer an intersectional, anti-oppressive, holistic, and creative experience in therapy.
(425) 842-0132 View (425) 842-0132
Photo of Sarah Lynne Poole, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 98103, WA
Sarah Lynne Poole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA, MSW, LSWAIC, CST
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Looking for a therapist is a huge step, I am so glad you are here! Are you struggling with with body-image, sexuality, disordered eating, anxiety, depression, PTSD or self-harm? Are you and your partner challenged with with desire discrepancy, communication, intimacy, sexuality or connection? Regardless of what you want to work on in therapy, I treat my clients with respect, compassion, and empathy. In session you can expect active and reflective listening, compassionate curiosity and authentic observations. Depending on your needs, I will offer psychoeducation and coping tools to support our work together.
Looking for a therapist is a huge step, I am so glad you are here! Are you struggling with with body-image, sexuality, disordered eating, anxiety, depression, PTSD or self-harm? Are you and your partner challenged with with desire discrepancy, communication, intimacy, sexuality or connection? Regardless of what you want to work on in therapy, I treat my clients with respect, compassion, and empathy. In session you can expect active and reflective listening, compassionate curiosity and authentic observations. Depending on your needs, I will offer psychoeducation and coping tools to support our work together.
(206) 590-5557 View (206) 590-5557
Photo of Nolan Giesbers, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98103, WA
Nolan Giesbers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Currently, I am working toward my certification as a sex therapist but have done extensive training around compulsive sexual behaviors and provide individual and group treatment.
A large part of why I have chosen to be a counselor is to simply help those in need. Many people come to therapy wanting relief from life’s challenges, answers to hard questions, or simply to be seen by and connected to another. My hope is that by choosing to engage in therapy, you will be able to experience all the goodness that comes from being respected, valued, and cared for in a truly meaningful way.
Currently, I am working toward my certification as a sex therapist but have done extensive training around compulsive sexual behaviors and provide individual and group treatment.
A large part of why I have chosen to be a counselor is to simply help those in need. Many people come to therapy wanting relief from life’s challenges, answers to hard questions, or simply to be seen by and connected to another. My hope is that by choosing to engage in therapy, you will be able to experience all the goodness that comes from being respected, valued, and cared for in a truly meaningful way.
(425) 212-1364 View (425) 212-1364
Photo of Violet Vorlet, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98103, WA
Violet Vorlet
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
I am a health at every size, body positive, and sex positive therapist.
I help couples at an impasse move to a place of clarity. The love is there, but the issues between them feel insurmountable. My approach is systemic to ensure that the individuals in every relationship I work with feel heard while working toward a resolution.
I am a health at every size, body positive, and sex positive therapist.
I help couples at an impasse move to a place of clarity. The love is there, but the issues between them feel insurmountable. My approach is systemic to ensure that the individuals in every relationship I work with feel heard while working toward a resolution.
(434) 205-6663 View (434) 205-6663
Photo of Regan Rowell Therapy, PLLC, Mental Health Counselor Associate in 98103, WA
Regan Rowell Therapy, PLLC
Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
As an individual and couples therapist, with a focus on sex therapy and trauma, I work to support clients in stepping into their lives in a more embodied and authentic way. What you are experiencing is valid and as humans, connection and support can be monumental during difficult times. I bring warmth into my work and value helping my clients improve connection to themselves, their relationships with others, and their sexuality. I will work alongside you to reflect in a meaningful and validating way, beginning to heal the trauma holistically both in your mind and body.
As an individual and couples therapist, with a focus on sex therapy and trauma, I work to support clients in stepping into their lives in a more embodied and authentic way. What you are experiencing is valid and as humans, connection and support can be monumental during difficult times. I bring warmth into my work and value helping my clients improve connection to themselves, their relationships with others, and their sexuality. I will work alongside you to reflect in a meaningful and validating way, beginning to heal the trauma holistically both in your mind and body.
(206) 984-1947 View (206) 984-1947
Photo of Dr. Taylor Nolan, Counselor in 98103, WA
Dr. Taylor Nolan
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
We'll likely touch on vulnerability, shame, sex, relationships, grief, acceptance, your inner child, and self-compassion.
Have you found yourself, and your partner(s), wanting some extra support? Needing to reflect on and better understand your relationships, with both yourself and the people in your life? I provide a safe place for you, and your partner(s), to talk through life's problems. I offer the support, understanding, and objectivity that most friends and family cannot. Some words clients have used to describe their experience, our work together, and my approach include: relatable, honest with humor, collaborative, supportive, and conversational.
We'll likely touch on vulnerability, shame, sex, relationships, grief, acceptance, your inner child, and self-compassion.
Have you found yourself, and your partner(s), wanting some extra support? Needing to reflect on and better understand your relationships, with both yourself and the people in your life? I provide a safe place for you, and your partner(s), to talk through life's problems. I offer the support, understanding, and objectivity that most friends and family cannot. Some words clients have used to describe their experience, our work together, and my approach include: relatable, honest with humor, collaborative, supportive, and conversational.
(206) 593-3795 View (206) 593-3795
Photo of Michael Forrester, Counselor in 98103, WA
Michael Forrester
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
My practice focuses on working with men around issues concerning identity, relationships, and sexuality.
I believe that therapy can help us see the unconscious patterns of behavior that we unknowingly live our lives within; that it can help us find some distance from our up-close feelings, and see ourselves with kindness; that it can bring vitality to stagnation, and enliven our sense of creativity; that it can help us pursue our desires; that it can be a place where we wrestle with the things we thought were true, and find comfort in the midst of uncertainty; that it can reveal something about the relationships we seek; and that it can teach us how to grieve our yesterdays, find gratitude for today, and hope for tomorrow.
My practice focuses on working with men around issues concerning identity, relationships, and sexuality.
I believe that therapy can help us see the unconscious patterns of behavior that we unknowingly live our lives within; that it can help us find some distance from our up-close feelings, and see ourselves with kindness; that it can bring vitality to stagnation, and enliven our sense of creativity; that it can help us pursue our desires; that it can be a place where we wrestle with the things we thought were true, and find comfort in the midst of uncertainty; that it can reveal something about the relationships we seek; and that it can teach us how to grieve our yesterdays, find gratitude for today, and hope for tomorrow.
(206) 752-4629 View (206) 752-4629
Photo of Lennon Micciulla, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 98103, WA
Lennon Micciulla
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
My therapy practice is rooted in attachment theory and experiential therapy, with advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and sex therapy interventions.
Do you feel like your partner just doesn’t hear you? Do you have the same fight over and over without resolution? Maybe you’re desperate for more emotional and sexual intimacy and don’t know how to get your needs met. Or perhaps you feel alone even when they’re right beside you. Let’s work together to better your communication, resolve conflict, create a stronger, more secure attachment, and learn how to express and receive your emotional and sexual needs. I support all relationship dynamics and structures, especially LGBTQIA+, kink, BDSM, and polyamorous/ENM.
My therapy practice is rooted in attachment theory and experiential therapy, with advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and sex therapy interventions.
Do you feel like your partner just doesn’t hear you? Do you have the same fight over and over without resolution? Maybe you’re desperate for more emotional and sexual intimacy and don’t know how to get your needs met. Or perhaps you feel alone even when they’re right beside you. Let’s work together to better your communication, resolve conflict, create a stronger, more secure attachment, and learn how to express and receive your emotional and sexual needs. I support all relationship dynamics and structures, especially LGBTQIA+, kink, BDSM, and polyamorous/ENM.
(206) 759-2746 View (206) 759-2746
Photo of Alexander Shappie, Psychologist in 98103, WA
Alexander Shappie
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
I frequently work with folks on topics related to attachment, sexuality, anxiety, OCD, life transitions, and trauma.
Are you feeling stuck? Can’t break out of the cycle? Or maybe you recently experienced a loss, and you’d like help picking up the pieces to figure out what happened. Despite knowing that certain behaviors aren’t working anymore, it may be very difficult to change or interrupt painful, destructive patterns that seem to hijack our lives and relationships. This can leave folks feeling frustrated, helpless, hopeless, or just broken. Therapy can provide you with the experiences, tools, and insight to make meaningful changes in your life, in your relationships, and promote personal growth.
I frequently work with folks on topics related to attachment, sexuality, anxiety, OCD, life transitions, and trauma.
Are you feeling stuck? Can’t break out of the cycle? Or maybe you recently experienced a loss, and you’d like help picking up the pieces to figure out what happened. Despite knowing that certain behaviors aren’t working anymore, it may be very difficult to change or interrupt painful, destructive patterns that seem to hijack our lives and relationships. This can leave folks feeling frustrated, helpless, hopeless, or just broken. Therapy can provide you with the experiences, tools, and insight to make meaningful changes in your life, in your relationships, and promote personal growth.
(206) 557-6610 View (206) 557-6610
Photo of Kathleen Chandler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 98103, WA
Kathleen Chandler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
My ideal client is feeling brave enough to learn how to compassionately feel the pain and discomfort that they've been avoiding. I work with all kinds of people; doctors, teachers, lawyers, therapists, entrepreneurs, sex workers, CEOs, stay at home parents, sales people, college kids, artists, construction workers, parents. If you're ready to take the journey of self discovery; I'm ready to be your guide. My goal is to help lead you towards self-compassion, self-love, and to be self-led.
My ideal client is feeling brave enough to learn how to compassionately feel the pain and discomfort that they've been avoiding. I work with all kinds of people; doctors, teachers, lawyers, therapists, entrepreneurs, sex workers, CEOs, stay at home parents, sales people, college kids, artists, construction workers, parents. If you're ready to take the journey of self discovery; I'm ready to be your guide. My goal is to help lead you towards self-compassion, self-love, and to be self-led.
(206) 672-7212 View (206) 672-7212
Photo of Genevieve Santerre, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in 98103, WA
Genevieve Santerre
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Relationship issues of all types including marital distress, family conflict, and sex therapy are my strength.
I believe you can live a fulfilling life and I am passionate about helping people find a way to live their dreams. It may not be what you had originally envisioned, but therapy can help you revamp or pivot to find solutions that work for you to whatever challenges you may be facing. I am passionate about supporting those from all walks of life including BIPOC, LGBTQ+, those who are differently abled, as well as those in different relationship structures. Belonging to a marriage and family therapy program, I am trained in working with couples specifically.
Relationship issues of all types including marital distress, family conflict, and sex therapy are my strength.
I believe you can live a fulfilling life and I am passionate about helping people find a way to live their dreams. It may not be what you had originally envisioned, but therapy can help you revamp or pivot to find solutions that work for you to whatever challenges you may be facing. I am passionate about supporting those from all walks of life including BIPOC, LGBTQ+, those who are differently abled, as well as those in different relationship structures. Belonging to a marriage and family therapy program, I am trained in working with couples specifically.
(206) 203-7158 View (206) 203-7158
Photo of Cait King, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98103, WA
Cait King
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
I completed my Masters degree in Marriage & Family Therapy with a concentration in Sex Therapy from Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, PA.
As a Couple and Family Therapist, I am honored to collaborate with clients in deciphering what may be holding you back from the freedom to live a more whole, robust life. A concentration of mine is in working with those who have attentional difficulties or learning differences such as ADHD, whether in a couple, family, or individual setting.
I completed my Masters degree in Marriage & Family Therapy with a concentration in Sex Therapy from Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, PA.
As a Couple and Family Therapist, I am honored to collaborate with clients in deciphering what may be holding you back from the freedom to live a more whole, robust life. A concentration of mine is in working with those who have attentional difficulties or learning differences such as ADHD, whether in a couple, family, or individual setting.
(267) 953-8094 View (267) 953-8094
Photo of Alicia Evans, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in 98103, WA
Alicia Evans
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MS, LPCC, NCC, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
I currently work with clients in Washington State via telehealth, and have an in-person office in Colorado. I enjoy working with people of all ages and experiences, though I have particular insight into challenges more specific to women including body image, self-criticism, anxiety, perfectionisms, depression, shame, parenting, relationships, sex, and boundaries. Mental health is about holding balances in one's life, and at the core, restoring loving compassion for one's self. I support you to explore your life, belief systems, and goals; to get to the things that might be blocking you from being the support you need.
I currently work with clients in Washington State via telehealth, and have an in-person office in Colorado. I enjoy working with people of all ages and experiences, though I have particular insight into challenges more specific to women including body image, self-criticism, anxiety, perfectionisms, depression, shame, parenting, relationships, sex, and boundaries. Mental health is about holding balances in one's life, and at the core, restoring loving compassion for one's self. I support you to explore your life, belief systems, and goals; to get to the things that might be blocking you from being the support you need.
(970) 238-2965 View (970) 238-2965
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.