Sex Therapists in Oakland, CA

Photo of Noelle Clason, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Noelle Clason
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
I provide sex-positive therapy to individuals, relationships, and adult families.
I have a particular passion for supporting queer, transgender, non-monogamous, poly, and/or kinky clients to navigate the unique pressures and challenges of family life and parenting on the margins. I am experienced in guiding clients who are ending relationships through an intentional breakup process.
I provide sex-positive therapy to individuals, relationships, and adult families.
I have a particular passion for supporting queer, transgender, non-monogamous, poly, and/or kinky clients to navigate the unique pressures and challenges of family life and parenting on the margins. I am experienced in guiding clients who are ending relationships through an intentional breakup process.
(510) 907-6191 View (510) 907-6191
Photo of Leticia Brown, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Leticia Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
Are you struggling with sexuality-related issues?
I use a relationally focused, strengths based approach, centering a social justice lens. Whether wanting to explore your sexual & intimacy needs within your couple or polycule, addressing sexual trauma, or a space to discuss kink, sex work, or other "alt sexuality" experiences in a safe, informed and non-judgmental environment, I can support your process.
Are you struggling with sexuality-related issues?
I use a relationally focused, strengths based approach, centering a social justice lens. Whether wanting to explore your sexual & intimacy needs within your couple or polycule, addressing sexual trauma, or a space to discuss kink, sex work, or other "alt sexuality" experiences in a safe, informed and non-judgmental environment, I can support your process.
(628) 300-0850 View (628) 300-0850
Photo of Dr. Katie Mai Findley, Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, BCBA, LMFT, CGT, CST
Dr. Katie Mai Findley
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, BCBA, LMFT, CGT, CST
Online Only
Findley is a Certified Gottman Couples Therapist and AASECT certified Sex Therapist.
Are you hitting the same roadblocks over and over? Wanting change but can't seem to make it happen? There is hope. Bring joy, humor, affection, sex, passion, and intimacy back into the relationship with evidenced based methods. Learn to express empathy, repair after a fight, manage conflict with healthy communication, and listen better.
Findley is a Certified Gottman Couples Therapist and AASECT certified Sex Therapist.
Are you hitting the same roadblocks over and over? Wanting change but can't seem to make it happen? There is hope. Bring joy, humor, affection, sex, passion, and intimacy back into the relationship with evidenced based methods. Learn to express empathy, repair after a fight, manage conflict with healthy communication, and listen better.
(707) 475-3959 View (707) 475-3959
Photo of Beth Apfelbaum, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Beth Apfelbaum
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I use a blend of innovative approaches that have helped many hundreds of individuals and couples manifest, grow, and savor the relationships and sexuality they desire.
I call this Mindful Loving and Sexuality, a psychospiritual approach that invites us to experience the love that's available at any moment in time. It's a life-changing process that embraces wisdom from ancient spiritual traditions, as well as modern, evidence-based insights on love, sex and relationship.
I use a blend of innovative approaches that have helped many hundreds of individuals and couples manifest, grow, and savor the relationships and sexuality they desire.
I call this Mindful Loving and Sexuality, a psychospiritual approach that invites us to experience the love that's available at any moment in time. It's a life-changing process that embraces wisdom from ancient spiritual traditions, as well as modern, evidence-based insights on love, sex and relationship.
(650) 209-7942 View (650) 209-7942
Photo of Stefanie Schlief, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Stefanie Schlief
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in sex therapy, trauma and PTSD, harm reduction and substance use, and helping clients cope with loss, shame, identity, or major life changes.
I tailor my approach to meet you exactly where you are using methods such as narrative therapy, mindfulness, and somatic work. Sessions are rooted in compassion and collaboration. Whether we're unpacking the weight of past trauma, exploring intimacy and communication, or finding new ways to deal with pain, my goal is to walk with you with care and curiosity.
I specialize in sex therapy, trauma and PTSD, harm reduction and substance use, and helping clients cope with loss, shame, identity, or major life changes.
I tailor my approach to meet you exactly where you are using methods such as narrative therapy, mindfulness, and somatic work. Sessions are rooted in compassion and collaboration. Whether we're unpacking the weight of past trauma, exploring intimacy and communication, or finding new ways to deal with pain, my goal is to walk with you with care and curiosity.
(510) 288-6085 View (510) 288-6085
Photo of Roy Bettencourt, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Roy Bettencourt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Oakland, CA 94609
What a healthy sex life looks like can vary, however, building a healthy and shame-free relationship with sex is essential for mental and emotional wellness.
The only thing scarier than change, is thinking things will never change. We love our partner, yet we fear love may not be enough. The relationship seems stuck. We constantly miscommunicate. We fight even when there’s nothing wrong. It doesn’t have to be like this and we don't have to find a new partner to have a new relationship. I honor the courage and strength it takes to ask for help. Together we will slow down the process, identify harmful relational patterns, and replace those dysfunctional patterns with new more satisfying interactions. My specialty is relational work couples/individuals. I have completed level 2 of Gottman.
What a healthy sex life looks like can vary, however, building a healthy and shame-free relationship with sex is essential for mental and emotional wellness.
The only thing scarier than change, is thinking things will never change. We love our partner, yet we fear love may not be enough. The relationship seems stuck. We constantly miscommunicate. We fight even when there’s nothing wrong. It doesn’t have to be like this and we don't have to find a new partner to have a new relationship. I honor the courage and strength it takes to ask for help. Together we will slow down the process, identify harmful relational patterns, and replace those dysfunctional patterns with new more satisfying interactions. My specialty is relational work couples/individuals. I have completed level 2 of Gottman.
(925) 478-4934 View (925) 478-4934
Photo of Jim Conwell - Jim Conwell MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Jim Conwell MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Oakland, CA 94618
I work with adult individuals, and men with issues in the area of sexuality and intimacy.
I bring to my work 29 years of continued study and experience in Gestalt Psychotherapy. I have studied in the Relational Life Therapy, Passionate Marriage, Quest for the Mythical Mate approaches (Terry Real; David Schnarch; Bader & Pearson). Also Johnson's Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, and Hendrix's Imago Therapy approaches.
I work with adult individuals, and men with issues in the area of sexuality and intimacy.
I bring to my work 29 years of continued study and experience in Gestalt Psychotherapy. I have studied in the Relational Life Therapy, Passionate Marriage, Quest for the Mythical Mate approaches (Terry Real; David Schnarch; Bader & Pearson). Also Johnson's Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, and Hendrix's Imago Therapy approaches.
(925) 290-8785 View (925) 290-8785
Photo of Malakai L Watkins, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Malakai L Watkins
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I specialize in sex therapy, relationship work (including polyamory, kink, and relationship anarchy), and supporting LGBTQIA+ and QTBIPOC communities.
I believe in therapy as a space for healing, liberation, and deep connection. My work is rooted in liberation psychology, recognizing the ways systemic oppression impacts mental health and centering your agency in the healing process. I offer an affirming space where you can bring your full self—your joys, your struggles, your identities, and your truths—without fear of judgment.
I specialize in sex therapy, relationship work (including polyamory, kink, and relationship anarchy), and supporting LGBTQIA+ and QTBIPOC communities.
I believe in therapy as a space for healing, liberation, and deep connection. My work is rooted in liberation psychology, recognizing the ways systemic oppression impacts mental health and centering your agency in the healing process. I offer an affirming space where you can bring your full self—your joys, your struggles, your identities, and your truths—without fear of judgment.
View
Photo of Crystal Harper, Pastoral Counselor, DMinCC, LCPC, CTSS, PhD
Crystal Harper
Pastoral Counselor, DMinCC, LCPC, CTSS, PhD
Online Only
I specialize in Crisis and Abuse, Sex Therapy, Trauma, Anxiety, and Depression.
Are you struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, or other distressing emotions? Do you desire release from unsuccessful patterns of behavior in relationships? If you want to experience more peace and well-being, I can effectively and compassionately help you navigate life-altering crisis and heal from childhood or adult traumatic events. With over 30 years of counseling experience, I have worked in: Suicide Prevention, Physical/Sexual Abuse, Trauma, Addiction (Drug Court), Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Violence, PTSD. I have both a strong clinical and faith-based educational background and take a holistic approach to counseling.
I specialize in Crisis and Abuse, Sex Therapy, Trauma, Anxiety, and Depression.
Are you struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, or other distressing emotions? Do you desire release from unsuccessful patterns of behavior in relationships? If you want to experience more peace and well-being, I can effectively and compassionately help you navigate life-altering crisis and heal from childhood or adult traumatic events. With over 30 years of counseling experience, I have worked in: Suicide Prevention, Physical/Sexual Abuse, Trauma, Addiction (Drug Court), Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Violence, PTSD. I have both a strong clinical and faith-based educational background and take a holistic approach to counseling.
(916) 579-7621 View (916) 579-7621
Photo of Sophie Jani, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Sophie Jani
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Oakland, CA 94612
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Certified Hakomi Therapist who provides Sex Therapy, EMDR, & EFT for couples.
Sometimes there are circumstances in life that are overwhelming and are beyond our control. Other times, we are trapped by our own perceptions and projections of the world. My approach is to serve as a guide and help you unravel your perceptions, memories, and beliefs, as well as provide you with some skills to help you cope in your world. I am partnered with Journey Clinical to provide Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. I work primarily with couples looking for deeper communication around sexual intimacy. I have partnered with Mentaya to help clients use their out-of-network benefits to save money on therapy.
I am a Certified Hakomi Therapist who provides Sex Therapy, EMDR, & EFT for couples.
Sometimes there are circumstances in life that are overwhelming and are beyond our control. Other times, we are trapped by our own perceptions and projections of the world. My approach is to serve as a guide and help you unravel your perceptions, memories, and beliefs, as well as provide you with some skills to help you cope in your world. I am partnered with Journey Clinical to provide Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. I work primarily with couples looking for deeper communication around sexual intimacy. I have partnered with Mentaya to help clients use their out-of-network benefits to save money on therapy.
(510) 962-9374 View (510) 962-9374
Photo of Victoria J King, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Victoria J King
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Oakland, CA 94609
As a Sex & Relationship Therapist, I come from a person-centered, open-minded, sex-positive, trauma-informed, attachment-oriented, and multi-cultural perspective, to support my clients in creating a healthy, satisfying, and empowered sexuality and relationship with oneself and others.
My sessions are interactive, experiential & somatically oriented using treatment modalities based on current research and neuro-science for supporting positive change in individuals and relationships. As a life-long learner, I have taken various trainings in Sex Therapy, Somatica Method, EFT, PACT, EMDR, Hypnosis, Coaching, and more.
As a Sex & Relationship Therapist, I come from a person-centered, open-minded, sex-positive, trauma-informed, attachment-oriented, and multi-cultural perspective, to support my clients in creating a healthy, satisfying, and empowered sexuality and relationship with oneself and others.
My sessions are interactive, experiential & somatically oriented using treatment modalities based on current research and neuro-science for supporting positive change in individuals and relationships. As a life-long learner, I have taken various trainings in Sex Therapy, Somatica Method, EFT, PACT, EMDR, Hypnosis, Coaching, and more.
(510) 756-3510 View (510) 756-3510
Photo of Mikaela A Wapman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Mikaela A Wapman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94601
I am a certified sex therapist and licensed clinical social worker.
Many people want to change in some way: to feel more ease, more pleasure, less anxiety, more freedom, greater connection. I offer a reliably warm space for clients to discover what they want to feel and experience in their lives. With a balance of curiosity and direction, I partner with clients to understand their strengths and challenges, to take action in alignment with their desires. As clarity and agency develop, we stabilize and encourage the emerging self. I think of this process as cultivating the capacity to hold steady in ourselves to connect truly with others, so that we can feel a sense of vitality and ease in our lives.
I am a certified sex therapist and licensed clinical social worker.
Many people want to change in some way: to feel more ease, more pleasure, less anxiety, more freedom, greater connection. I offer a reliably warm space for clients to discover what they want to feel and experience in their lives. With a balance of curiosity and direction, I partner with clients to understand their strengths and challenges, to take action in alignment with their desires. As clarity and agency develop, we stabilize and encourage the emerging self. I think of this process as cultivating the capacity to hold steady in ourselves to connect truly with others, so that we can feel a sense of vitality and ease in our lives.
(510) 488-1327 View (510) 488-1327
Photo of Julia Simone Fogelson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Julia Simone Fogelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
I offer psychotherapy to adults, couples and other relationship configurations, families and teens, as well as sex therapy.
I can help you get unstuck and figure out the changes you want to make in your life. I work with clients on all sorts of issues, from anxiety, depression and trauma recovery, to navigating a meaningful sex life. I work from a poly-friendly, kink-knowledgeable, queer- and gender-affirming perspective, and I do not pathologize human sexuality.
I offer psychotherapy to adults, couples and other relationship configurations, families and teens, as well as sex therapy.
I can help you get unstuck and figure out the changes you want to make in your life. I work with clients on all sorts of issues, from anxiety, depression and trauma recovery, to navigating a meaningful sex life. I work from a poly-friendly, kink-knowledgeable, queer- and gender-affirming perspective, and I do not pathologize human sexuality.
(510) 681-0729 View (510) 681-0729
Photo of Melika Biglarpour-Watson, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Melika Biglarpour-Watson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Whether you're navigating trauma, relationships, sex & intimacy, or cultural & identity expression challenges, I create a safe space for deep transformation.
With 8+ years of experience, I specialize in trauma recovery, sex therapy, anxiety, and multicultural identity. My practice affirms LGBTQIA2S+, BIPOC, and ethically non-monogamous clients. As an immigrant, I understand bicultural identity and intergenerational dynamics.
Whether you're navigating trauma, relationships, sex & intimacy, or cultural & identity expression challenges, I create a safe space for deep transformation.
With 8+ years of experience, I specialize in trauma recovery, sex therapy, anxiety, and multicultural identity. My practice affirms LGBTQIA2S+, BIPOC, and ethically non-monogamous clients. As an immigrant, I understand bicultural identity and intergenerational dynamics.
View
Photo of Taryn L Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Taryn L Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Oakland, CA 94609
I am passionate about supporting individuals, creatives and creative thinkers looking to break limiting patterns and cycles in their art, work, relationships and sex lives or those needing support through life or creative transitions.
I work with adults, and TAY (16-24) integrating body centered creative arts approaches into the therapeutic process to help reach beyond the limitations of traditional talk therapy. My approach centers curiosity, playfulness, well placed humor and warmth while simultaneously offering an assertive and focused approach to the therapeutic process.
I am passionate about supporting individuals, creatives and creative thinkers looking to break limiting patterns and cycles in their art, work, relationships and sex lives or those needing support through life or creative transitions.
I work with adults, and TAY (16-24) integrating body centered creative arts approaches into the therapeutic process to help reach beyond the limitations of traditional talk therapy. My approach centers curiosity, playfulness, well placed humor and warmth while simultaneously offering an assertive and focused approach to the therapeutic process.
(510) 680-2650 View (510) 680-2650
Photo of Elizabeth Cadd, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Elizabeth Cadd
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are anxiety, depression, Complex PTSD, or struggles around sex and intimacy getting in the way of the life or relationships you want?
I help individuals and couples move from survival to deeper connection, joy, and self-trust. Clients often explore identity, heal attachment wounds, and break old patterns. I also support couples transitioning from monogamy to consensual non-monogamy or polyamory, building clarity, communication, and trust.
Are anxiety, depression, Complex PTSD, or struggles around sex and intimacy getting in the way of the life or relationships you want?
I help individuals and couples move from survival to deeper connection, joy, and self-trust. Clients often explore identity, heal attachment wounds, and break old patterns. I also support couples transitioning from monogamy to consensual non-monogamy or polyamory, building clarity, communication, and trust.
(510) 398-4923 View (510) 398-4923
Photo of Scott D. Altamirano (Oakland), Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Scott D. Altamirano (Oakland)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Online Only
Maybe you keep attracting narcissistic or borderline partners, or you’re battling sex or porn addiction in secret.
As an attachment-focused therapist, I work with those struggling with compulsive sexual behaviors, the fallout of abusive or manipulative relationships, and deep-rooted emotional pain that’s been ignored for too long. My approach is direct, unfiltered, and often infused with dark humor, because therapy should be real-not just polite conversation.
Maybe you keep attracting narcissistic or borderline partners, or you’re battling sex or porn addiction in secret.
As an attachment-focused therapist, I work with those struggling with compulsive sexual behaviors, the fallout of abusive or manipulative relationships, and deep-rooted emotional pain that’s been ignored for too long. My approach is direct, unfiltered, and often infused with dark humor, because therapy should be real-not just polite conversation.
(972) 945-7714 View (972) 945-7714
Photo of Dr. David Shepard, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. David Shepard
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
I enjoy working with adults who want to live a more fulfilling life. When it comes to therapy, I like to meet people where they are at, utilizing evidence-based practices, and tailoring therapy to each individual with respect to their cultural backgrounds, and the intersecting identities that they bring into the therapeutic relationship. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist based in California, and I work with people statewide via telehealth. I am also a Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional and a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. Learn more at therapywithdrdavid.com
I enjoy working with adults who want to live a more fulfilling life. When it comes to therapy, I like to meet people where they are at, utilizing evidence-based practices, and tailoring therapy to each individual with respect to their cultural backgrounds, and the intersecting identities that they bring into the therapeutic relationship. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist based in California, and I work with people statewide via telehealth. I am also a Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional and a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. Learn more at therapywithdrdavid.com
(510) 949-3878 View (510) 949-3878
Photo of Frankie Bashan, Psychologist, PsyD, CST
Frankie Bashan
Psychologist, PsyD, CST
Online Only
In addition to providing psychotherapeutic services I also provide dating and relationship coaching and sex therapy as I am a board certified sex therapist (AASECT).
I believe that we all have the intrinsic ability to reach our full potential; that "self-actualization is growth-motivated rather than deficiency-motivated". It is our life experiences and toxic interactions with others that often prevent us from realizing this potential on our own. Although I was trained psychodynamically, my approach is integrative and driven by the needs of the individual client. I practice in a warm, relational, and collaborative manner. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, individual adults and couples. I help clients identify what is holding them back from effecting positive change. I help clients be more mindful and less fearful, thereby allowing them to attain more meaningful healthy relationships.
In addition to providing psychotherapeutic services I also provide dating and relationship coaching and sex therapy as I am a board certified sex therapist (AASECT).
I believe that we all have the intrinsic ability to reach our full potential; that "self-actualization is growth-motivated rather than deficiency-motivated". It is our life experiences and toxic interactions with others that often prevent us from realizing this potential on our own. Although I was trained psychodynamically, my approach is integrative and driven by the needs of the individual client. I practice in a warm, relational, and collaborative manner. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, individual adults and couples. I help clients identify what is holding them back from effecting positive change. I help clients be more mindful and less fearful, thereby allowing them to attain more meaningful healthy relationships.
(415) 992-6273 View (415) 992-6273
Photo of Claire Perelman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Claire Perelman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
Talking about sex with your partner - or anyone - might feel like a daunting task.
As a Certified Sex Therapist, I offer "general" therapy with additional expertise and training in sex and sexuality. I meet with clients in person in Oakland and San Francisco, or via Telehealth. We might be a good fit if you are looking for a sex-positive, kink/BDSM, polyam/ethical non-monogamy, and Queer affirming therapist (that gets it).
Talking about sex with your partner - or anyone - might feel like a daunting task.
As a Certified Sex Therapist, I offer "general" therapy with additional expertise and training in sex and sexuality. I meet with clients in person in Oakland and San Francisco, or via Telehealth. We might be a good fit if you are looking for a sex-positive, kink/BDSM, polyam/ethical non-monogamy, and Queer affirming therapist (that gets it).
(415) 985-4279 View (415) 985-4279

See more therapy options for Oakland

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.