Photo of Natalie Blair, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natalie Blair
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109
Reaching out for therapy can be tough but talking about sex well that's downright scary! It doesn't have to be, and part of taking back your sexuality is to talk about and say those words you may not have ever said out loud.
I’m so happy you’re here! My mission is to empower women to reclaim their sexuality. By taking ownership of your body and your pleasure, you can refresh your zest for life. I am a sex therapist who utilizes cognitive behavioral, narrative, and solution- focused techniques to enable you to take control of your mental well-being. Book with me at www.beauthenticallyyou.net.
Reaching out for therapy can be tough but talking about sex well that's downright scary! It doesn't have to be, and part of taking back your sexuality is to talk about and say those words you may not have ever said out loud.
I’m so happy you’re here! My mission is to empower women to reclaim their sexuality. By taking ownership of your body and your pleasure, you can refresh your zest for life. I am a sex therapist who utilizes cognitive behavioral, narrative, and solution- focused techniques to enable you to take control of your mental well-being. Book with me at www.beauthenticallyyou.net.
(619) 762-3318 View (619) 762-3318
Photo of Ashley Cooley, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Cooley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Ashley’s specialities are in sex therapy and eating disorders.
As a therapist, it is my goal to make sure you get the most out of our sessions together. I encourage all my clients to make the treatment plan with me. You are the expert in you and respecting that is essential to meeting your needs. We will identify your own unique strengths in combination with therapeutic skill building to achieve your goals.
Ashley’s specialities are in sex therapy and eating disorders.
As a therapist, it is my goal to make sure you get the most out of our sessions together. I encourage all my clients to make the treatment plan with me. You are the expert in you and respecting that is essential to meeting your needs. We will identify your own unique strengths in combination with therapeutic skill building to achieve your goals.
(858) 533-2627 View (858) 533-2627
Photo of undefined - Mary Cipriani /SD Institute For Couples & Families, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary Cipriani /SD Institute For Couples & Families
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109
I am passionate about helping individuals, couples and families live to their greatest potential and wholeness whether they are surviving from past hurts, trauma, depression, anxiety, or just need support. I have a passion to help couples create a deeper and more meaningful connection that will last their lifetime. In addition to being a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am a Professor in MFT at Azusa Pacific University and have a specialty in working with Couples, Sex Therapy and Sex Addicts & Partners. My practice is the San Diego Institute for Couples and Families, www.sdicouples.com.
I am passionate about helping individuals, couples and families live to their greatest potential and wholeness whether they are surviving from past hurts, trauma, depression, anxiety, or just need support. I have a passion to help couples create a deeper and more meaningful connection that will last their lifetime. In addition to being a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am a Professor in MFT at Azusa Pacific University and have a specialty in working with Couples, Sex Therapy and Sex Addicts & Partners. My practice is the San Diego Institute for Couples and Families, www.sdicouples.com.
(619) 870-1602 View (619) 870-1602
Photo of Christy Stein, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christy Stein
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a psychodynamically-grounded, integrative psychotherapist with extensive training and experience in trauma resolution and sex therapy.
Making the decision for change and taking the first step in that direction are acts of courage and creation. Whether you are struggling emotionally or you would just like to examine yourself more deeply, I am here to support you on the path. I work across cultures with individuals and couples on challenges ranging from extreme trauma to addiction to life transitions. You do not have to manage these difficulties alone.
I am a psychodynamically-grounded, integrative psychotherapist with extensive training and experience in trauma resolution and sex therapy.
Making the decision for change and taking the first step in that direction are acts of courage and creation. Whether you are struggling emotionally or you would just like to examine yourself more deeply, I am here to support you on the path. I work across cultures with individuals and couples on challenges ranging from extreme trauma to addiction to life transitions. You do not have to manage these difficulties alone.
(415) 462-4245 View (415) 462-4245
Photo of Dana M Cole, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dana M Cole
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109
I am a sex positive, harm reduction, science based therapist.
I strongly believe, and studies show, that the connection between you and your therapist is one of the most important aspects of being in therapy. No matter what brings you here, trust and communication are what help you to be comfortable. My goal is to create a safe, judgement free space for whatever you want to unpack. You can do hard things and I'm here to help you.
I am a sex positive, harm reduction, science based therapist.
I strongly believe, and studies show, that the connection between you and your therapist is one of the most important aspects of being in therapy. No matter what brings you here, trust and communication are what help you to be comfortable. My goal is to create a safe, judgement free space for whatever you want to unpack. You can do hard things and I'm here to help you.
(858) 703-5696 View (858) 703-5696
Photo of Becky McGinnis, MS, Counselor
Becky McGinnis
Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109  (Online Only)
I specialize in providing Gender Affirming Care and Sex Therapy and I have extensive training working on issues pertaining to intimacy and alternative lifestyles.
Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others around you? Do you feel unsure how to express your true self or live the life you want? As a Gender, Sex, and Relationship Diversity knowledgable therapist, I offer a supportive environment to address issues in life that may be holding you back. Sometimes it's our own beliefs about ourselves or our true potential that's our greatest barrier. Therapy can help uncover the barriers that are in the way and learn skills and techniques for how to work with yourself and collaborate with life so that you feel like you are living as opposed to just surviving.
I specialize in providing Gender Affirming Care and Sex Therapy and I have extensive training working on issues pertaining to intimacy and alternative lifestyles.
Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others around you? Do you feel unsure how to express your true self or live the life you want? As a Gender, Sex, and Relationship Diversity knowledgable therapist, I offer a supportive environment to address issues in life that may be holding you back. Sometimes it's our own beliefs about ourselves or our true potential that's our greatest barrier. Therapy can help uncover the barriers that are in the way and learn skills and techniques for how to work with yourself and collaborate with life so that you feel like you are living as opposed to just surviving.
(619) 831-8552 View (619) 831-8552
Photo of Ashley Snyder, PsyD, Psychologist
Ashley Snyder
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109
My passion is working with you to create a well-rounded fulfilling life, and I practice what I preach. I emphasize deep meaningful therapy sessions along with other aspects such as healthy eating, exercise, hobbies, relationships and time in nature. I like to be clear with our goals and how therapy will work and I will guide you each step of the way.
My passion is working with you to create a well-rounded fulfilling life, and I practice what I preach. I emphasize deep meaningful therapy sessions along with other aspects such as healthy eating, exercise, hobbies, relationships and time in nature. I like to be clear with our goals and how therapy will work and I will guide you each step of the way.
(619) 330-9176 View (619) 330-9176
Photo of Em Mitchell, PhD, Psychologist
Em Mitchell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109  (Online Only)
Feeling stuck or frustrated? Tired of trying so hard with it just not working? I’m here to help you figure out what’s backfiring on you, and how to move forward from unhelpful patterns. If you want to understand and improve your relationships, intimacy, or emotional pain, I can help.
Feeling stuck or frustrated? Tired of trying so hard with it just not working? I’m here to help you figure out what’s backfiring on you, and how to move forward from unhelpful patterns. If you want to understand and improve your relationships, intimacy, or emotional pain, I can help.
(858) 727-5898 View (858) 727-5898
Photo of Margo De La Cruz - Individual And Couples Specialist, Marriage & Family Therapist
Margo De La Cruz - Individual And Couples Specialist
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109  (Online Only)
If you are reluctant about therapy, I get it. Not even sure what you’re doing here or where to begin? I can work with that! Stepping into therapy might come with a mix of hesitation and doubt, whether it’s fueled by personal curiosity or a nudge from your partner. Wherever you’re coming from, I embrace it – with an approach that’s both supportive and straightforward. Above all, I’m here to meet you where you are.
If you are reluctant about therapy, I get it. Not even sure what you’re doing here or where to begin? I can work with that! Stepping into therapy might come with a mix of hesitation and doubt, whether it’s fueled by personal curiosity or a nudge from your partner. Wherever you’re coming from, I embrace it – with an approach that’s both supportive and straightforward. Above all, I’m here to meet you where you are.
(619) 486-9381 View (619) 486-9381
Photo of Michael Giancola, MA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Giancola
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109
Have you been asked by a wife, husband, partner, significant other or employer to make changes in your sexual behavior? Do you find it difficult to change? I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working with men who struggle with consensual Out of Control Sexual Behavior. I provide assessment, individual and group therapy for men who are experiencing Out of Control Sexual Behavior.
Have you been asked by a wife, husband, partner, significant other or employer to make changes in your sexual behavior? Do you find it difficult to change? I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working with men who struggle with consensual Out of Control Sexual Behavior. I provide assessment, individual and group therapy for men who are experiencing Out of Control Sexual Behavior.
(619) 382-2915 View (619) 382-2915
Photo of Private Two Day Couples Retreat - Therapy Intensives In San Diego, PhD, Psychologist
Private Two Day Couples Retreat - Therapy Intensives In San Diego
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109
If your relationship is in crisis, then getting help right away can make all the difference. Relationship intensives differ from traditional therapy because we meet for 5-6 hours in one day, preferable for two days in a row. This is the equivalent of 3 months of weekly therapy and I can fit you in right away. Whether your problems entail infidelity, constant arguing, living as roommates, or the threat of divorce — by the end of the intensive you will have more clarity, tools you can use right away in your relationship, and a plan for moving forward.
If your relationship is in crisis, then getting help right away can make all the difference. Relationship intensives differ from traditional therapy because we meet for 5-6 hours in one day, preferable for two days in a row. This is the equivalent of 3 months of weekly therapy and I can fit you in right away. Whether your problems entail infidelity, constant arguing, living as roommates, or the threat of divorce — by the end of the intensive you will have more clarity, tools you can use right away in your relationship, and a plan for moving forward.
(858) 924-0469 View (858) 924-0469
Photo of Stephanie Nigh, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Nigh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109
I specialize with high functioning adults pursuing personal & professional growth & development. I enjoy helping high achieving individuals find personal balance while pursuing professional excellence. My expertise includes leadership challenges, relationship issues, chronic stress, perfectionism, grief recovery, personal empowerment and parenting. I provide professional consultation & therapy groups for therapists & professionals in leadership. I help individuals employ strengths while exercising creative approaches to life's ongoing challenges. Together we forge a path that optimizes growth for meaningful, long-lasting results.
I specialize with high functioning adults pursuing personal & professional growth & development. I enjoy helping high achieving individuals find personal balance while pursuing professional excellence. My expertise includes leadership challenges, relationship issues, chronic stress, perfectionism, grief recovery, personal empowerment and parenting. I provide professional consultation & therapy groups for therapists & professionals in leadership. I help individuals employ strengths while exercising creative approaches to life's ongoing challenges. Together we forge a path that optimizes growth for meaningful, long-lasting results.
(858) 213-0031 View (858) 213-0031
Photo of Chandra Estelle Khalifian, PhD, Psychologist
Chandra Estelle Khalifian
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109
All couples experience challenges and can get stuck in harmful patterns. However, we can work together to identify those patterns, increase understanding and empathy, and utilize skills to shift communication and improve satisfaction, intimacy, and fun. Your relationship is unique and I will work with you to identify your relationship values and build a relationship that feels safe, supportive, and authentic. Let's create the relationship that works for you and your partner(s).
All couples experience challenges and can get stuck in harmful patterns. However, we can work together to identify those patterns, increase understanding and empathy, and utilize skills to shift communication and improve satisfaction, intimacy, and fun. Your relationship is unique and I will work with you to identify your relationship values and build a relationship that feels safe, supportive, and authentic. Let's create the relationship that works for you and your partner(s).
(619) 639-4746 View (619) 639-4746
Photo of undefined - Center for Mental Health Excellence, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Center for Mental Health Excellence
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109  (Online Only)
The Center for Mental Health Excellence (CFMHE) is a nonprofit organization and training center providing affordable, accessible telehealth counseling for individuals, couples, and families. Our compassionate therapists, including Marriage and Family Therapist Trainees, address a wide range of emotional and relational concerns. We understand that life's journey is filled with challenges, and sometimes we all need a helping hand to navigate through them. Our dedicated team of experienced therapists is here to offer support, guidance, and a safe space for those seeking positive change and personal growth.
The Center for Mental Health Excellence (CFMHE) is a nonprofit organization and training center providing affordable, accessible telehealth counseling for individuals, couples, and families. Our compassionate therapists, including Marriage and Family Therapist Trainees, address a wide range of emotional and relational concerns. We understand that life's journey is filled with challenges, and sometimes we all need a helping hand to navigate through them. Our dedicated team of experienced therapists is here to offer support, guidance, and a safe space for those seeking positive change and personal growth.
(619) 257-4449 View (619) 257-4449
Photo of Kayla Knopp, PhD, Psychologist
Kayla Knopp
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109  (Online Only)
I love to work with people in relationships of all types, structures, and styles. Everyone feels stuck or unhappy in relationships sometimes. My goal is to help you get unstuck from unhelpful patterns in your life and your relationships. To do this, I can help you better understand yourself and your loved ones, increase empathy and connection, and support you in changing behaviors that are not working for you.
I love to work with people in relationships of all types, structures, and styles. Everyone feels stuck or unhappy in relationships sometimes. My goal is to help you get unstuck from unhelpful patterns in your life and your relationships. To do this, I can help you better understand yourself and your loved ones, increase empathy and connection, and support you in changing behaviors that are not working for you.
(858) 964-2061 View (858) 964-2061
Photo of Rusty Redden, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Rusty Redden
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109  (Online Only)
Accessible remote therapy for young professionals and couples. I provide culturally-affirming approaches for those navigating anxiety, ADHD/ASD, relationship issues, and work burnout. Specializing in supporting neurodivergent adults and couples, I aim to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your identity and relationships freely.
Accessible remote therapy for young professionals and couples. I provide culturally-affirming approaches for those navigating anxiety, ADHD/ASD, relationship issues, and work burnout. Specializing in supporting neurodivergent adults and couples, I aim to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your identity and relationships freely.
(442) 313-2756 View (442) 313-2756
Photo of Mariah McQueen, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mariah McQueen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109
I come from an Emotionally Focused Therapy perspective. I believe that all people need to deeply know and be known by others. I am passionate about working with clients to help them understand their emotional needs for closeness and connection, how unmet needs cause disconnection, and how more helpful ways of relating to one another are possible. My hope for all my clients is that they would experience healing and renewed closeness in their relationships with themselves and others. I believe this begins when you are feeling the safety and freedom to share what is really going on inside.
I come from an Emotionally Focused Therapy perspective. I believe that all people need to deeply know and be known by others. I am passionate about working with clients to help them understand their emotional needs for closeness and connection, how unmet needs cause disconnection, and how more helpful ways of relating to one another are possible. My hope for all my clients is that they would experience healing and renewed closeness in their relationships with themselves and others. I believe this begins when you are feeling the safety and freedom to share what is really going on inside.
(619) 597-2107 View (619) 597-2107
Photo of Susan Graf-Cote, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Graf-Cote
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109
By promoting a safe space where you can create, and recreate the you that is well. Tapping into the strengths that live in your heart, we will gain access to your ideals and understanding and build upon them. We will awaken the part of you that will teach you to become your own coach. I will introduce you to several techniques and theoretical orientations that best suit you. I will not subject you to change through somebody elses belief systems instead of your own. With my guidance, you will find the answers to change your life and find peace.
By promoting a safe space where you can create, and recreate the you that is well. Tapping into the strengths that live in your heart, we will gain access to your ideals and understanding and build upon them. We will awaken the part of you that will teach you to become your own coach. I will introduce you to several techniques and theoretical orientations that best suit you. I will not subject you to change through somebody elses belief systems instead of your own. With my guidance, you will find the answers to change your life and find peace.
(858) 842-5224 View (858) 842-5224
Photo of Cindy Way: Hope Therapy Group, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Cindy Way: Hope Therapy Group
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109
My specialty is working with individuals, couples, and families that are impacted by their relationship/marital issues, divorce, blended families, parenting/co-parenting, different- abilities (disability), and chronic pain/illness. Additionally, I apply a trauma-informed lens toward life experiences supporting PTSD/C-PTSD, Generational/Intergenerational Trauma, Cultural/Racial Trauma, and Military-related trauma.
My specialty is working with individuals, couples, and families that are impacted by their relationship/marital issues, divorce, blended families, parenting/co-parenting, different- abilities (disability), and chronic pain/illness. Additionally, I apply a trauma-informed lens toward life experiences supporting PTSD/C-PTSD, Generational/Intergenerational Trauma, Cultural/Racial Trauma, and Military-related trauma.
(858) 997-0934 View (858) 997-0934
Photo of undefined - The Heart of the Matter Relationship Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Heart of the Matter Relationship Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109
We believe people possess the inner strength, imagination, and determination to meet life’s challenges, but sometimes we get stuck and forget that we have these abilities. Individual therapy presents an opportunity to understand your feelings, thoughts and behaviors in new ways. There are times when the challenges in life may lead to anxiety, depression, helplessness and despair. You may be feeling frightened, insecure, alone and lacking direction. We take the time to listen to your problems and understand your situation to help you live a fuller, more joyful and positive life.
We believe people possess the inner strength, imagination, and determination to meet life’s challenges, but sometimes we get stuck and forget that we have these abilities. Individual therapy presents an opportunity to understand your feelings, thoughts and behaviors in new ways. There are times when the challenges in life may lead to anxiety, depression, helplessness and despair. You may be feeling frightened, insecure, alone and lacking direction. We take the time to listen to your problems and understand your situation to help you live a fuller, more joyful and positive life.
(619) 768-2395 View (619) 768-2395
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.