Photo of Dr Yamam Abuzinadah, PhD, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Dr Yamam Abuzinadah
Counsellor, PhD, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101  (Online Only)
Dr Yamam has an extensive experience helping culturally and linguistically diverse clients with emotional challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationships issues, family conflict, CALD and migration issues, trauma and PTSD, immigrant mental health, newcomers challenges, women’s relationships issues like: dating, marriage, sex and intimacy, migrants career directions, gender identity for religious and/or Muslim clients. I work with individuals and youth above 14 yo.
Dr Yamam has an extensive experience helping culturally and linguistically diverse clients with emotional challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationships issues, family conflict, CALD and migration issues, trauma and PTSD, immigrant mental health, newcomers challenges, women’s relationships issues like: dating, marriage, sex and intimacy, migrants career directions, gender identity for religious and/or Muslim clients. I work with individuals and youth above 14 yo.
(03) 7003 2261 View (03) 7003 2261
Photo of Dawn Vincent, AMHSW, Counsellor
Dawn Vincent
Counsellor, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
Are you experiencing low mood, finding it hard to stop worrying and feeling dissatisfied with the quality of your relationships or unhappy with your personal or working life? With the busyness of our lives and the pressures and demands we all face daily, our emotional wellbeing is an area which can be neglected. However, there comes a time when we know that it is time to stop and take some action to turn our life around. Counselling with me can help you with the skills and strategies you need to make changes and choices which will allow you to find the satisfaction you seek in the key areas of your life.
Are you experiencing low mood, finding it hard to stop worrying and feeling dissatisfied with the quality of your relationships or unhappy with your personal or working life? With the busyness of our lives and the pressures and demands we all face daily, our emotional wellbeing is an area which can be neglected. However, there comes a time when we know that it is time to stop and take some action to turn our life around. Counselling with me can help you with the skills and strategies you need to make changes and choices which will allow you to find the satisfaction you seek in the key areas of your life.
(03) 9068 5948 View (03) 9068 5948

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Alex Sutherland, MSc, PACFA, Counsellor
Alex Sutherland
Counsellor, MSc, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brunswick, VIC 3056
I believe therapy is a collaborative process and am led by where the client is and what they might be seeking in terms of goals or support, if this is known. I am sex worker friendly, LGBTIQA+SB inclusive, kink and poly aware and gender affirming. My specialist areas are working in topics of sex and relationships, including sexual pain and dysfunctions. I am experienced with working with trauma and have worked with survivors of family violence and a variety of marginalised and diverse communities including different cultural backgrounds.
I believe therapy is a collaborative process and am led by where the client is and what they might be seeking in terms of goals or support, if this is known. I am sex worker friendly, LGBTIQA+SB inclusive, kink and poly aware and gender affirming. My specialist areas are working in topics of sex and relationships, including sexual pain and dysfunctions. I am experienced with working with trauma and have worked with survivors of family violence and a variety of marginalised and diverse communities including different cultural backgrounds.
(03) 9111 5334 View (03) 9111 5334
Photo of Toya Ricci, MA, Counsellor
Toya Ricci
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
Ascot Vale, VIC 3032
Toya (she/her) is an inclusive and culturally sensitive counsellor, sex therapist and sexuality educator with experience in supporting people from diverse backgrounds. Both as a professional and a woman of colour, Toya recognises that therapy can be a vulnerable and challenging process and seeks to create a safe and supportive environment for her clients to explore their concerns and experiences so that they can achieve meaningful outcomes.
Toya (she/her) is an inclusive and culturally sensitive counsellor, sex therapist and sexuality educator with experience in supporting people from diverse backgrounds. Both as a professional and a woman of colour, Toya recognises that therapy can be a vulnerable and challenging process and seeks to create a safe and supportive environment for her clients to explore their concerns and experiences so that they can achieve meaningful outcomes.
(03) 8595 5264 View (03) 8595 5264
Photo of Andrew Everingham - Staghorn Sexology, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Staghorn Sexology
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
I know it can be confronting to address issues pertaining to sex, trauma and relationships.
We provide counselling specialising in the following areas: psycho sexual therapy for sexual problems such as erectile dysfunction, performance anxieties, ejaculatory disorders, painful sex and mismatched/low libido; relationship counselling; individual counselling especially around gender/ sexual orientation issues, trauma and anxiety/depression. We have special interest in men's health, ageing sexuality, sexual function after cancer diagnosis/treatment, infidelity, sexual trauma and gay/lesbian/queer relationships including consensual non-monogamy.
I know it can be confronting to address issues pertaining to sex, trauma and relationships.
We provide counselling specialising in the following areas: psycho sexual therapy for sexual problems such as erectile dysfunction, performance anxieties, ejaculatory disorders, painful sex and mismatched/low libido; relationship counselling; individual counselling especially around gender/ sexual orientation issues, trauma and anxiety/depression. We have special interest in men's health, ageing sexuality, sexual function after cancer diagnosis/treatment, infidelity, sexual trauma and gay/lesbian/queer relationships including consensual non-monogamy.
(02) 4063 1410 View (02) 4063 1410
Photo of Malena Gutierrez, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Malena Gutierrez
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
She combines a lot of techniques and approaches to tailor her work, including studies of Human Sexual Behaviour, to help her clients discover new and more functional solutions to different circumstances and problems.
Malena is a registered Psychotherapist with a Degree in Psychology (Mexico). She has been working with the Spanish speaking community for more that a decade in Australia, and has more than 20 years in Private Practice. She works with adults and with couples, and offers Sex therapy. Some of the issues she works with are emotional pain, depression, anxiety, stress and anger management, infidelity, separation, difference in sex drive. She provides a safe and understanding environment where her clients can express their emotions, feel understood and find their strength to overcome even the most adverse of the circumstances.
She combines a lot of techniques and approaches to tailor her work, including studies of Human Sexual Behaviour, to help her clients discover new and more functional solutions to different circumstances and problems.
Malena is a registered Psychotherapist with a Degree in Psychology (Mexico). She has been working with the Spanish speaking community for more that a decade in Australia, and has more than 20 years in Private Practice. She works with adults and with couples, and offers Sex therapy. Some of the issues she works with are emotional pain, depression, anxiety, stress and anger management, infidelity, separation, difference in sex drive. She provides a safe and understanding environment where her clients can express their emotions, feel understood and find their strength to overcome even the most adverse of the circumstances.
(02) 4504 0229 View (02) 4504 0229
Photo of Cheryl Tan-Bell - Couples - Emdr, PACFA, Counsellor
Cheryl Tan-Bell - Couples - Emdr
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Relationships are tough! Add in each other's trauma and you are bouncing off everyone like you're in a jumping castle. The old adage of 'individual stuff' and 'couple/s stuff' is true. Conversations can feel like they are going around in circles or rehashing old stuff. You feel stuck. Your partner/s feels stuck. No one is moving forward. This wasn't the life you imagined when you got together. It was meant to be rainbows and fairytales, not discussions around housework, money and sex - or friends and inlaws! What if I told you that 'your stuff' is affecting the relationship? It's a big possibility. It does not have to be that way!
Relationships are tough! Add in each other's trauma and you are bouncing off everyone like you're in a jumping castle. The old adage of 'individual stuff' and 'couple/s stuff' is true. Conversations can feel like they are going around in circles or rehashing old stuff. You feel stuck. Your partner/s feels stuck. No one is moving forward. This wasn't the life you imagined when you got together. It was meant to be rainbows and fairytales, not discussions around housework, money and sex - or friends and inlaws! What if I told you that 'your stuff' is affecting the relationship? It's a big possibility. It does not have to be that way!
(08) 6171 2914 View (08) 6171 2914
Photo of Ashley Macklin, MA, ACA-L3, Counsellor
Ashley Macklin
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
Collingwood, VIC 3066
I am an engaging and non-judgemental counsellor with experience in helping clients build skills to cope with anxiety, depression, addiction, and more. I am particularly interested in working with people navigating non-traditional relationships (polyamory, open relationships, kink/fetish, etc.), as well as relationship and intimacy issues. I am experienced with non-monogamy and I am in my final year of studying a degree in psycho sexual therapy to become a certified sex therapist. I have helped clients through teaching skills to handle their problems or by giving them space to vent.
I am an engaging and non-judgemental counsellor with experience in helping clients build skills to cope with anxiety, depression, addiction, and more. I am particularly interested in working with people navigating non-traditional relationships (polyamory, open relationships, kink/fetish, etc.), as well as relationship and intimacy issues. I am experienced with non-monogamy and I am in my final year of studying a degree in psycho sexual therapy to become a certified sex therapist. I have helped clients through teaching skills to handle their problems or by giving them space to vent.
(02) 4504 0326 View (02) 4504 0326
Photo of johanna Waugh - Stickbymecounselling / Psychosexual therapist , MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Stickbymecounselling / Psychosexual therapist
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, VIC 3000
She creates a secure environment and encourages people to explore their relationships, sexuality, and wants.
Working with singles, couples, and families is Johanna's primary focus. She also works with men and women experiencing problems related to their sexual health, including erectile dysfunction and delayed ejaculation. For women, she treats low sexual desire, fertility issues, conception-related misconceptions, hypoactive sexual desire disorder, and out-of-control sexual behaviours like sex, porn addiction. Johanna is accommodating to sex workers. Additionally, she is LGBTQ, kink, and fetish friendly, and she can work with poly/open partnerships
She creates a secure environment and encourages people to explore their relationships, sexuality, and wants.
Working with singles, couples, and families is Johanna's primary focus. She also works with men and women experiencing problems related to their sexual health, including erectile dysfunction and delayed ejaculation. For women, she treats low sexual desire, fertility issues, conception-related misconceptions, hypoactive sexual desire disorder, and out-of-control sexual behaviours like sex, porn addiction. Johanna is accommodating to sex workers. Additionally, she is LGBTQ, kink, and fetish friendly, and she can work with poly/open partnerships
(02) 9100 0121 View (02) 9100 0121
Photo of Lisa McGarva - Thinking Feeling Moving, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Thinking Feeling Moving
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
LGBTQIA plus Safe Space, Sex Positive, GSRD aware.
Email or WhatsApp for an appointment +447543800297 lisa(at)thinkingfeelingmoving.com I work remotely online. . I am a Clinical Sexologist, Relationship Therapist, Counsellor, Yoga Teacher, Yoga Therapist, and Educator. Bespoke retreats available globally as your personal therapist.
LGBTQIA plus Safe Space, Sex Positive, GSRD aware.
Email or WhatsApp for an appointment +447543800297 lisa(at)thinkingfeelingmoving.com I work remotely online. . I am a Clinical Sexologist, Relationship Therapist, Counsellor, Yoga Teacher, Yoga Therapist, and Educator. Bespoke retreats available globally as your personal therapist.
View
Photo of Timothy Hill, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Timothy Hill
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, VIC 3004
Hi I'm Tim.​ I am a Registered Psychologist offering face to face sessions in West Melbourne and via telehealth. ​I work with adults (18+) experiencing a range of difficulties, including anxiety and depression, work related, financial and academic stress, grief, interpersonal/ relationship issues, as well as sexuality, gender and self-esteem related difficulties. I am passionate about providing a safe space for people of any sexuality, gender, sex, culture, religion or ability.
Hi I'm Tim.​ I am a Registered Psychologist offering face to face sessions in West Melbourne and via telehealth. ​I work with adults (18+) experiencing a range of difficulties, including anxiety and depression, work related, financial and academic stress, grief, interpersonal/ relationship issues, as well as sexuality, gender and self-esteem related difficulties. I am passionate about providing a safe space for people of any sexuality, gender, sex, culture, religion or ability.
(03) 7003 2363 x7 View (03) 7003 2363 x7
Photo of Julian Nolan, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Julian Nolan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Prahran, VIC 3181
I see people with a variety of concerns, including: anxiety, depression, anger and other emotional management issues, relationship/family issues, loss, grief and trauma, challenges relating to being neurodiverse (ASD, ADHD), sex, sexuality and gender related concerns, and eating disorders.
I see people with a variety of concerns, including: anxiety, depression, anger and other emotional management issues, relationship/family issues, loss, grief and trauma, challenges relating to being neurodiverse (ASD, ADHD), sex, sexuality and gender related concerns, and eating disorders.
(03) 7003 2124 View (03) 7003 2124
Photo of Andy Allen, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andy Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Brunswick, VIC 3056
Happy to work with hetero sexual and LGBTIQA+ identifying peoples alike to assist in overcoming issues that may be causing interruption with your connection with others or impeding you from living life fully.
I am very happy to work with individuals from all walks of life and backgrounds. I enjoy working with clients in freeing themselves of past traumatic experiences to live life more fully and freely. Additionally, I have extensive experience working from a lived experience lens with LGBTIQA+ communities and am kink, non-monogamous, and sex worker positive. I have a keen interest in working with people experiencing sexual health difficulties related to their mental health using a variety of hands-off counselling techniques. Finally, I offer couples counselling using the Gottman Method.
Happy to work with hetero sexual and LGBTIQA+ identifying peoples alike to assist in overcoming issues that may be causing interruption with your connection with others or impeding you from living life fully.
I am very happy to work with individuals from all walks of life and backgrounds. I enjoy working with clients in freeing themselves of past traumatic experiences to live life more fully and freely. Additionally, I have extensive experience working from a lived experience lens with LGBTIQA+ communities and am kink, non-monogamous, and sex worker positive. I have a keen interest in working with people experiencing sexual health difficulties related to their mental health using a variety of hands-off counselling techniques. Finally, I offer couples counselling using the Gottman Method.
(03) 9994 1801 View (03) 9994 1801
Photo of Paula-Jane Buckland, PACFA, Counsellor
Paula-Jane Buckland
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Brunswick East, VIC 3057
Paula-Jane specializes in complex trauma, working with adults who are victim/survivors of childhood sexual assault, and sex and intimacy education for NDIS participants.
Paula-Jane is an accredited mental health counsellor and sex therapist working with individuals and intimate couples; providing care for a diverse range of issues and concerns. The greatest joy of her role is seeing people leaving her care feeling content, lighter and calm within themselves and hope for their future. Paula-Jane is committed to holding a space that is calm accepting trusting safe and welcoming, allowing you to feel at ease and move at a pace comfortable to you. Welcoming all people from different communities, lifestyles and abilities.
Paula-Jane specializes in complex trauma, working with adults who are victim/survivors of childhood sexual assault, and sex and intimacy education for NDIS participants.
Paula-Jane is an accredited mental health counsellor and sex therapist working with individuals and intimate couples; providing care for a diverse range of issues and concerns. The greatest joy of her role is seeing people leaving her care feeling content, lighter and calm within themselves and hope for their future. Paula-Jane is committed to holding a space that is calm accepting trusting safe and welcoming, allowing you to feel at ease and move at a pace comfortable to you. Welcoming all people from different communities, lifestyles and abilities.
(03) 8338 4767 View (03) 8338 4767
Photo of Lee Taube, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Lee Taube
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brunswick, VIC 3056
I am skilled in working with depression, anxiety, neurodiversity, binge eating disorder, and clients that are LGBTIQA+, sex workers, and polyamorous.
I am the founder and Director of Trans Space, a registered psychologist and first author of four academic peer-reviewed publications, that use strengths-based approaches to improve mental health for Trans & Gender Diverse (TGD) people. I am experienced in using the informed consent model, Transgender Affirmative Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TA-CBT), and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT). When using TA-CBT, I work collaboratively with gender affirming healthcare practitioners and make referrals to TGD community support groups.
I am skilled in working with depression, anxiety, neurodiversity, binge eating disorder, and clients that are LGBTIQA+, sex workers, and polyamorous.
I am the founder and Director of Trans Space, a registered psychologist and first author of four academic peer-reviewed publications, that use strengths-based approaches to improve mental health for Trans & Gender Diverse (TGD) people. I am experienced in using the informed consent model, Transgender Affirmative Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TA-CBT), and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT). When using TA-CBT, I work collaboratively with gender affirming healthcare practitioners and make referrals to TGD community support groups.
(03) 7003 2505 View (03) 7003 2505
Photo of Lisa Torney, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Torney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Brunswick, VIC 3056
I appreciate that talking about personal matters and especially sexual ones can sometimes feel difficult or embarrassing and most people say they feel relieved to have these conversations in a safe and supportive way with me.
Sexual or relationship concerns can be difficult to talk about and may negatively impact our emotional well-being and mental health. Often people tell me they have not felt comfortable discussing sexuality with other therapists and seek me out to explore issues of concern without judgement. As an accredited psycho sexual therapist and mental health social worker I have worked for nearly 30 years supporting people to improve their sexual and interpersonal relationships, manage depression, anxiety, low self esteem, body image issues, sexual pleasure post trauma, grief, loss, communication difficulties and other concerns.
I appreciate that talking about personal matters and especially sexual ones can sometimes feel difficult or embarrassing and most people say they feel relieved to have these conversations in a safe and supportive way with me.
Sexual or relationship concerns can be difficult to talk about and may negatively impact our emotional well-being and mental health. Often people tell me they have not felt comfortable discussing sexuality with other therapists and seek me out to explore issues of concern without judgement. As an accredited psycho sexual therapist and mental health social worker I have worked for nearly 30 years supporting people to improve their sexual and interpersonal relationships, manage depression, anxiety, low self esteem, body image issues, sexual pleasure post trauma, grief, loss, communication difficulties and other concerns.
(03) 9118 9063 View (03) 9118 9063
Photo of Imogen Rose Todd - Imogen Todd - Sex Therapy, MSc
Imogen Todd - Sex Therapy
MSc
Verified Verified
Brunswick West, VIC 3055  (Online Only)
As a practitioner, I embody empathy, compassion, and non-judgmentalism, fostering an inclusive and safe therapeutic environment where you can explore your sexual health, identity, and related concerns.
As a Sexologist and Social Worker, I am here to support clients with a range of presenting difficulties. I offer support to people needing sex therapy, relationship/couples therapy, perinatal therapy, and general counselling. I have expertise in supporting those with sexual function issues, including painful sex, erectile dysfunction, vaginismus and more. I also support people experiencing performance anxiety, body image concerns, relationship issues, sexual assault survivors, sex workers, and those needing support with their gender and sexuality. I provide a warm, safe and non-judgemental space to meet client needs.
As a practitioner, I embody empathy, compassion, and non-judgmentalism, fostering an inclusive and safe therapeutic environment where you can explore your sexual health, identity, and related concerns.
As a Sexologist and Social Worker, I am here to support clients with a range of presenting difficulties. I offer support to people needing sex therapy, relationship/couples therapy, perinatal therapy, and general counselling. I have expertise in supporting those with sexual function issues, including painful sex, erectile dysfunction, vaginismus and more. I also support people experiencing performance anxiety, body image concerns, relationship issues, sexual assault survivors, sex workers, and those needing support with their gender and sexuality. I provide a warm, safe and non-judgemental space to meet client needs.
(03) 8338 1600 View (03) 8338 1600
Photo of Roshanak (Roshi) Raoofi, MSc, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist
Roshanak (Roshi) Raoofi
Psychotherapist, MSc, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Box Hill South, VIC 3128
I am a registered counsellor and psychotherapist in Australia, holding a Master's degree in Counselling, and I am honoured to be an affiliated member of the Australian Institute of Counselling (25403). My professional accreditations include the following: Registered and Certified Individual/Group Clinical Supervisor with College of Supervisor, Level 1 Certified Emotionally Focused Individual Therapist, Level 1 & 2 Certified Complex Trauma Therapist, Level 1 Solution-Focused Couple Therapist, Certified Anger Management Therapist, Certified Guilt & Shame Specialist, Certified Sex Therapist and Level 1 Gottman Couple Certification.
I am a registered counsellor and psychotherapist in Australia, holding a Master's degree in Counselling, and I am honoured to be an affiliated member of the Australian Institute of Counselling (25403). My professional accreditations include the following: Registered and Certified Individual/Group Clinical Supervisor with College of Supervisor, Level 1 Certified Emotionally Focused Individual Therapist, Level 1 & 2 Certified Complex Trauma Therapist, Level 1 Solution-Focused Couple Therapist, Certified Anger Management Therapist, Certified Guilt & Shame Specialist, Certified Sex Therapist and Level 1 Gottman Couple Certification.
(03) 7500 5937 View (03) 7500 5937
Photo of Ryan Hsu, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Ryan Hsu
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Greensborough, VIC 3088  (Online Only)
Ryan provides a safe and supportive environment to discuss concerns about sex, gender and sexuality, including intimacy and relationship concerns.
Ryan is a counsellor and sex therapist keen to work with LGBTIQA+ communities, migrants and refugees. He/they take an intersectional approach to supporting his clients. He/they have a Master of Counselling and Master of Law from Monash University, a Master of Science in Medicine (SRH) specialising in Psycho sexual Therapy from the University of Sydney, a Bachelor of Business, a Graduate Diploma in Education and a Graduate Certificate in Forensic Psychology from Curtin University.
Ryan provides a safe and supportive environment to discuss concerns about sex, gender and sexuality, including intimacy and relationship concerns.
Ryan is a counsellor and sex therapist keen to work with LGBTIQA+ communities, migrants and refugees. He/they take an intersectional approach to supporting his clients. He/they have a Master of Counselling and Master of Law from Monash University, a Master of Science in Medicine (SRH) specialising in Psycho sexual Therapy from the University of Sydney, a Bachelor of Business, a Graduate Diploma in Education and a Graduate Certificate in Forensic Psychology from Curtin University.
(03) 8400 0614 View (03) 8400 0614
Photo of Kevin Vun - inner haven therapy, MA, ACA-L4, Counsellor
inner haven therapy
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Melbourne, VIC 3000  (Online Only)
As an empathetic and inclusive counsellor, I am committed to supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds on their unique journeys. With a focus on the queer/gay, BIPOC, Asian, and male communities, I offer a safe space where clients can explore the full spectrum of the human experience. My holistic approach addresses mental health, well-being, relationships, sexuality, identity, and confidence. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of life, fostering self-discovery and empowering personal growth. Let's embark on a transformative path towards healing, authenticity, and empowerment.
As an empathetic and inclusive counsellor, I am committed to supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds on their unique journeys. With a focus on the queer/gay, BIPOC, Asian, and male communities, I offer a safe space where clients can explore the full spectrum of the human experience. My holistic approach addresses mental health, well-being, relationships, sexuality, identity, and confidence. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of life, fostering self-discovery and empowering personal growth. Let's embark on a transformative path towards healing, authenticity, and empowerment.
(02) 9100 0511 View (02) 9100 0511

See more therapy options for Kew

Sex Therapy Counsellors

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.