Sex Therapists in Baltimore, MD

Photo of Barry A Bass, Psychologist, PhD
Barry A Bass
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21210
As a certified AASECT sex therapist I help couples to see that sexual satisfaction is not an optional but rather is an essential component of a long term happy marriage.
Although the desire for romantic intimacy is perfectly natural, long term intimate relationships are rarely naturally perfect. For over 30 years I have dedicated my professional life to helping individuals and couples fine tune their not-always naturally perfect relationships. Although I am a clinical psychologist who continues to treat individuals suffering from the full spectrum of psychological disorders, most of my career has been devoted to working with individuals and couples experiencing marital, relationship, and/or sexual concerns; to assisting couples seeking relief from the trauma of infidelity; and to treating individuals suffering from obsessive compulsive disorder or anger control issues.
As a certified AASECT sex therapist I help couples to see that sexual satisfaction is not an optional but rather is an essential component of a long term happy marriage.
Although the desire for romantic intimacy is perfectly natural, long term intimate relationships are rarely naturally perfect. For over 30 years I have dedicated my professional life to helping individuals and couples fine tune their not-always naturally perfect relationships. Although I am a clinical psychologist who continues to treat individuals suffering from the full spectrum of psychological disorders, most of my career has been devoted to working with individuals and couples experiencing marital, relationship, and/or sexual concerns; to assisting couples seeking relief from the trauma of infidelity; and to treating individuals suffering from obsessive compulsive disorder or anger control issues.
(410) 305-9329 View (410) 305-9329
Photo of Andi Grushka, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW-C
Andi Grushka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211
I work specifically with adults struggling with sex-related issues.
I am the owner of Gold Pomegranate LLC practicing psychotherapy in PA & MD. I studied and have been certified with the Sexual Health Alliance as a kink-informed clinician, and I am a National Coalition for Sexual Freedom (NCSF) Kink-Aware Professional. I offer a mix of solution-focused therapy with a psychodynamic and trauma-informed approach.
I work specifically with adults struggling with sex-related issues.
I am the owner of Gold Pomegranate LLC practicing psychotherapy in PA & MD. I studied and have been certified with the Sexual Health Alliance as a kink-informed clinician, and I am a National Coalition for Sexual Freedom (NCSF) Kink-Aware Professional. I offer a mix of solution-focused therapy with a psychodynamic and trauma-informed approach.
(410) 896-1336 View (410) 896-1336
Photo of Nadia Williams - Nadia Williams PhD, LCPC, CST, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, CST, CSCT, MA
Nadia Williams PhD, LCPC, CST
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, CST, CSCT, MA
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Certified Sex Therapist and trained in treating a wide range of mental health issues including anxiety, sexual health issues, mood disorders, relationship problems, and life transitions.
In my practice, I believe in taking a friendly and non-judgmental manner with clients and view therapy as a collaboration. Seeking out a therapist can be a daunting task for anyone and I hope to make clients feel heard and comfortable by personalizing therapy to their needs. I utilize a variety of integrative therapeutic techniques ranging from cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, dialectical behavior therapy, and solution-focused to assist clients facing many difficulties within their lives.
I am a Certified Sex Therapist and trained in treating a wide range of mental health issues including anxiety, sexual health issues, mood disorders, relationship problems, and life transitions.
In my practice, I believe in taking a friendly and non-judgmental manner with clients and view therapy as a collaboration. Seeking out a therapist can be a daunting task for anyone and I hope to make clients feel heard and comfortable by personalizing therapy to their needs. I utilize a variety of integrative therapeutic techniques ranging from cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, dialectical behavior therapy, and solution-focused to assist clients facing many difficulties within their lives.
(443) 483-4192 View (443) 483-4192
Photo of Dr. Elyssa Klann, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Elyssa Klann
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21224
My specialties include sex therapy and working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
I believe that healing happens in relationships where we can truly be seen, understood, and valued for who we are. I will be a warm and compassionate presence for you as we work together to identify your needs, goals, and values. Then comes the challenging and liberating part: utilizing that knowledge and awareness to help you build the life you want. Based on your concerns, we can integrate a variety of trauma-informed practices such as self-compassion, mindfulness, parts work, and cognitive/behavioral (e.g., ACT, CBT) therapies. I highly value collaboration and invite you to explore and share with me what works best for you.
My specialties include sex therapy and working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
I believe that healing happens in relationships where we can truly be seen, understood, and valued for who we are. I will be a warm and compassionate presence for you as we work together to identify your needs, goals, and values. Then comes the challenging and liberating part: utilizing that knowledge and awareness to help you build the life you want. Based on your concerns, we can integrate a variety of trauma-informed practices such as self-compassion, mindfulness, parts work, and cognitive/behavioral (e.g., ACT, CBT) therapies. I highly value collaboration and invite you to explore and share with me what works best for you.
(443) 222-0598 View (443) 222-0598
Photo of Jess Hyman, Counselor, LGPC
Jess Hyman
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211
I practice individual and couples counseling with a focus in conflict resolution and sex positive, kink affirming therapy.
Hello there! I'm Jess, a clinician who strongly believes in the resilience of the human spirit. As someone who has had to "bounce back" several times in my own life, I understand how powerful authentic, transparent, and focused support can be. I am an advocate of self-love, empathetic communication, and the pursuit of a peaceful existence. I seek to collaborate with my clients to assist them in healing from past traumas, finding purpose, and utilizing gratitude to create a life of happiness and fulfillment. I hold a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
I practice individual and couples counseling with a focus in conflict resolution and sex positive, kink affirming therapy.
Hello there! I'm Jess, a clinician who strongly believes in the resilience of the human spirit. As someone who has had to "bounce back" several times in my own life, I understand how powerful authentic, transparent, and focused support can be. I am an advocate of self-love, empathetic communication, and the pursuit of a peaceful existence. I seek to collaborate with my clients to assist them in healing from past traumas, finding purpose, and utilizing gratitude to create a life of happiness and fulfillment. I hold a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
(443) 233-1917 x26 View (443) 233-1917 x26
Photo of Chris Kraft, Psychologist, PhD
Chris Kraft
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21210
As a psychologist/sexologist and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist on faculty at Johns Hopkins University, I specialize in marital sexual functioning, problematic Internet sexual behaviors, and sexual addiction and compulsivity.
I conduct a comprehensive evaluation with both members of a couple along with taking a detailed sexual and relationship history. Couples are evaluated over a 3 hour time period where they are interviewed together and separately. Individuals not coupled are evaluated in 2 hour sessions.
As a psychologist/sexologist and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist on faculty at Johns Hopkins University, I specialize in marital sexual functioning, problematic Internet sexual behaviors, and sexual addiction and compulsivity.
I conduct a comprehensive evaluation with both members of a couple along with taking a detailed sexual and relationship history. Couples are evaluated over a 3 hour time period where they are interviewed together and separately. Individuals not coupled are evaluated in 2 hour sessions.
(410) 656-4485 View (410) 656-4485
Photo of Estefanía Simich Muñoz, Counselor, PhD, NCC, LCPC, CST, CST-S
Estefanía Simich Muñoz
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LCPC, CST, CST-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21231
I hold a PhD in Human Sexuality and I am a Certified Sex Therapist and Supervisor through AASECT (American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists).
Finding a place we can trust to tell our stories is essential to finding a path to healing, recovery, and transformation. Therefore, it is essential to find someone that can help you reach your potential to transform your life. We all are born with an innate capacity to develop healthy lives. However, sometimes life experiences such as hurts and traumas can interfere with our development and we may become unhappy or unsatisfied with our lives and adopt self-defeating thinking and behavioral patterns.
I hold a PhD in Human Sexuality and I am a Certified Sex Therapist and Supervisor through AASECT (American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists).
Finding a place we can trust to tell our stories is essential to finding a path to healing, recovery, and transformation. Therefore, it is essential to find someone that can help you reach your potential to transform your life. We all are born with an innate capacity to develop healthy lives. However, sometimes life experiences such as hurts and traumas can interfere with our development and we may become unhappy or unsatisfied with our lives and adopt self-defeating thinking and behavioral patterns.
(443) 305-6344 View (443) 305-6344
Photo of Phil Goldberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Phil Goldberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I provide services for adults and couples who are experiencing concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, issues related to sex and sexual or gender identity, and exploration of relationship dynamics and ethical non-monogamy.
As a therapist, I strive to help you live a life that is connected with joy, authenticity, and meaning. I value all of the identities, experience, and lessons that you bring to the table, and use these to deliver a personalized approach to counseling. I set out to create a warm, non-judgmental space for you to show up as your most authentic self, and utilize a blend of Psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavioral approaches to help you achieve your goals in therapy. My goal is to foster a space for you to explore yourself, gain insight into your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and to create meaningful and lasting growth in your life.
I provide services for adults and couples who are experiencing concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, issues related to sex and sexual or gender identity, and exploration of relationship dynamics and ethical non-monogamy.
As a therapist, I strive to help you live a life that is connected with joy, authenticity, and meaning. I value all of the identities, experience, and lessons that you bring to the table, and use these to deliver a personalized approach to counseling. I set out to create a warm, non-judgmental space for you to show up as your most authentic self, and utilize a blend of Psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavioral approaches to help you achieve your goals in therapy. My goal is to foster a space for you to explore yourself, gain insight into your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and to create meaningful and lasting growth in your life.
(410) 587-0204 View (410) 587-0204
Photo of Britt Lindon, Psychologist, PhD, Anxiety, Couples, Trauma
Britt Lindon
Psychologist, PhD, Anxiety, Couples, Trauma
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21202
I am a psychoanalyst & sex therapist comfortable working with kinks, non-traditional relationships, and poly people (including couples where one person is gung-ho and the partner is oh-no).
Modern relationships are HARD. It’s a struggle to find the right person OR to wonder if your current partner is possibly the wrong person. It’s tough when you feel burned by or totally confused about your path. Maybe you’ve even made choices or overlooked things you now regret. Or, maybe it’s a relationship with a boss or coworkers who undervalue you or play favorites with others. Your work ethic and good ideas have long taken a backseat to putting out fires or just avoiding things way more than you should. You’re past thinking that life’s fair. But, you never thought that things could go THIS wrong or get under your skin THIS much.
I am a psychoanalyst & sex therapist comfortable working with kinks, non-traditional relationships, and poly people (including couples where one person is gung-ho and the partner is oh-no).
Modern relationships are HARD. It’s a struggle to find the right person OR to wonder if your current partner is possibly the wrong person. It’s tough when you feel burned by or totally confused about your path. Maybe you’ve even made choices or overlooked things you now regret. Or, maybe it’s a relationship with a boss or coworkers who undervalue you or play favorites with others. Your work ethic and good ideas have long taken a backseat to putting out fires or just avoiding things way more than you should. You’re past thinking that life’s fair. But, you never thought that things could go THIS wrong or get under your skin THIS much.
(443) 672-5358 View (443) 672-5358
Photo of Janine Leki, Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Janine Leki
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21224
I specialize in sex therapy, trauma work, identity exploration and affirmation, and development of self-worth.
Sometimes we get so busy with the stress and fast-paced movement of daily life that when we finally come up for air, we realize we're living a life out of sync with our own wants and needs. We may have normalized parts of our lives we dislike, and now feel unsure or unworthy of who we are or what we want. Therapy is a process in which we work together to create space for you to slow down and unpack all of the beliefs, burdens, expectations, identities, fears, and hopes you hold; to assess what works and let go of what no longer serves you, to review who you've been and cultivate the person you want to be.
I specialize in sex therapy, trauma work, identity exploration and affirmation, and development of self-worth.
Sometimes we get so busy with the stress and fast-paced movement of daily life that when we finally come up for air, we realize we're living a life out of sync with our own wants and needs. We may have normalized parts of our lives we dislike, and now feel unsure or unworthy of who we are or what we want. Therapy is a process in which we work together to create space for you to slow down and unpack all of the beliefs, burdens, expectations, identities, fears, and hopes you hold; to assess what works and let go of what no longer serves you, to review who you've been and cultivate the person you want to be.
(410) 324-7157 View (410) 324-7157
Photo of Adrienne Kilby, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Adrienne Kilby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with people who want help exploring sexual orientation, gender identity, pleasure, kink, polyamory, and concerns about sex (anxiety, pain, dissociation, unsatisfying relationships), as well as those who have experienced sexual or religious trauma.
I practice sharing power in the therapeutic relationship by thoughtfully bringing my full self to the table. My therapeutic style is interactive and conversational. I incorporate investigation into ways systems of oppression (white supremacy, capitalism, the gender binary, anti-fatness, and ableism to name a few) impact our mental health and relationships.
I specialize in working with people who want help exploring sexual orientation, gender identity, pleasure, kink, polyamory, and concerns about sex (anxiety, pain, dissociation, unsatisfying relationships), as well as those who have experienced sexual or religious trauma.
I practice sharing power in the therapeutic relationship by thoughtfully bringing my full self to the table. My therapeutic style is interactive and conversational. I incorporate investigation into ways systems of oppression (white supremacy, capitalism, the gender binary, anti-fatness, and ableism to name a few) impact our mental health and relationships.
(443) 241-0639 View (443) 241-0639
Photo of Rachel Keller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, AASECT, CST
Rachel Keller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, AASECT, CST
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
As an AASECT-certified sex therapist, an RLT-certified couples therapist, and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I bring a wealth of experience and knowledge into the room.
Would you like to feel closer to your partner? Are obstacles, conflict, or past trauma getting in the way of the intimacy and connection that you desire? Would you like to feel more alive and empowered in your relationships? Relationships are challenging, and there are many valid reasons why couples struggle to connect in healthy ways. Whether you are seeking couples or individual therapy, I will walk with you as a fellow traveler, guiding and supporting each step of the way towards greater relational health.
As an AASECT-certified sex therapist, an RLT-certified couples therapist, and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I bring a wealth of experience and knowledge into the room.
Would you like to feel closer to your partner? Are obstacles, conflict, or past trauma getting in the way of the intimacy and connection that you desire? Would you like to feel more alive and empowered in your relationships? Relationships are challenging, and there are many valid reasons why couples struggle to connect in healthy ways. Whether you are seeking couples or individual therapy, I will walk with you as a fellow traveler, guiding and supporting each step of the way towards greater relational health.
(410) 874-4009 View (410) 874-4009
Photo of Romel Santiago, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST, QS-CSW
Romel Santiago
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST, QS-CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Romel is a Certified Sex Therapist, Trauma and EMDR therapist working in areas of depression, anxiety, relationships, parenting, divorce, and cultural/religious trauma.
Romeos Sensation LLC provides Services in Florida and Maryland virtually. Through a structured interview and client engagement, Romel goes beyond the obvious, the presenting issue, to identify the root problem. Based on the outcome of the interview and clinical expertise, he proposes an individualized plan with goals that specifically target the problems with specific objectives and timelines for meeting those objectives. His extensive clinical background, training, and expertise have equipped him with skills critical to building and maintaining an effective and empathic relationship throughout the therapeutic process.
Romel is a Certified Sex Therapist, Trauma and EMDR therapist working in areas of depression, anxiety, relationships, parenting, divorce, and cultural/religious trauma.
Romeos Sensation LLC provides Services in Florida and Maryland virtually. Through a structured interview and client engagement, Romel goes beyond the obvious, the presenting issue, to identify the root problem. Based on the outcome of the interview and clinical expertise, he proposes an individualized plan with goals that specifically target the problems with specific objectives and timelines for meeting those objectives. His extensive clinical background, training, and expertise have equipped him with skills critical to building and maintaining an effective and empathic relationship throughout the therapeutic process.
(240) 226-1612 View (240) 226-1612
Photo of Michali Friedman - Embrace Therapy - Michali Friedman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Embrace Therapy - Michali Friedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Our specialties in relationships & sexuality enable us to guide you in not just figuring out what was going wrong before, but also helping you identify what is right & fulfilling for you.
To our Dear Future Client, If you're reading this, chances are you may have noticed that something does not feel right in your relationship. Perhaps you have known this for quite some time or maybe you have only now come to realize an important truth - that this is not how you want to feel, not where you want to be, & it's time for change. Change can be really scary and overwhelming, maybe even foreign. Of course, evolution doesn't happen overnight, so naturally you may ask how & when does it happen? Good questions!
Our specialties in relationships & sexuality enable us to guide you in not just figuring out what was going wrong before, but also helping you identify what is right & fulfilling for you.
To our Dear Future Client, If you're reading this, chances are you may have noticed that something does not feel right in your relationship. Perhaps you have known this for quite some time or maybe you have only now come to realize an important truth - that this is not how you want to feel, not where you want to be, & it's time for change. Change can be really scary and overwhelming, maybe even foreign. Of course, evolution doesn't happen overnight, so naturally you may ask how & when does it happen? Good questions!
(646) 663-5368 View (646) 663-5368
Photo of Naquita Gross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CTP, CGP
Naquita Gross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CTP, CGP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with people to overcome depression, anxiety, mood disorders, grief, trauma, sexuality and identity issues, and social injustice.
I believe in authenticity and I empower people to embrace their own. It is my intention to make your therapy process as comfortable and productive as possible. I create a nonjudgemental and calming space to allow you to process whatever you need to process. I seamlessly use various treatment modalities to do this in a very relaxed manner.
I work with people to overcome depression, anxiety, mood disorders, grief, trauma, sexuality and identity issues, and social injustice.
I believe in authenticity and I empower people to embrace their own. It is my intention to make your therapy process as comfortable and productive as possible. I create a nonjudgemental and calming space to allow you to process whatever you need to process. I seamlessly use various treatment modalities to do this in a very relaxed manner.
(410) 724-1135 View (410) 724-1135
Photo of Yashira Brooks, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, NCC, LCPC , DBT, TFCBT, CSTIP
Yashira Brooks
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, NCC, LCPC , DBT, TFCBT, CSTIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21228
I am certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Sex Therapy.
I am often told that I am easy to open up to and talk to. My open-heart and open mind fosters relatability with clients of all ages. I provide empathetic and active listening to ensure my clients feel heard. My client's livelihood means a lot to me so I take their problems as serious as I take my own because of how much I care.
I am certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Sex Therapy.
I am often told that I am easy to open up to and talk to. My open-heart and open mind fosters relatability with clients of all ages. I provide empathetic and active listening to ensure my clients feel heard. My client's livelihood means a lot to me so I take their problems as serious as I take my own because of how much I care.
(240) 410-1261 View (240) 410-1261
Photo of Mark Goldberg, Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, CST
Mark Goldberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Are you having problems with sex or intimacy?
I also provide individual therapy to adults to help them better understand and express their feelings, to address depression and anxiety, and to improve their relationships.
Are you having problems with sex or intimacy?
I also provide individual therapy to adults to help them better understand and express their feelings, to address depression and anxiety, and to improve their relationships.
(443) 671-1146 View (443) 671-1146
Photo of Christina Law, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, BCST, TCT
Christina Law
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, BCST, TCT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
As a Clinical Social Worker, Board Certified Sex Therapist, and Certified Transgender Care Therapist, I specialize in transgender care and sexual issues.
I work with individuals with a wide array of issues. I have experience working with transgender clients, gender dysphoria, bipolar, depression, sex addiction, sex offenses, and more. I can assist with writing letters for HRT and Sex Reassignment Surgery.
As a Clinical Social Worker, Board Certified Sex Therapist, and Certified Transgender Care Therapist, I specialize in transgender care and sexual issues.
I work with individuals with a wide array of issues. I have experience working with transgender clients, gender dysphoria, bipolar, depression, sex addiction, sex offenses, and more. I can assist with writing letters for HRT and Sex Reassignment Surgery.
(410) 782-3885 View (410) 782-3885
Photo of Abby Hall, Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Abby Hall
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Have you had desires of what your sex life or relationships could look like, but never known how to make that a reality?
I specialize in working with adult individuals and partners navigating sexuality, identity and relationships. I offer you a warm and open space to explore your goals and desires, paired with extensive training in sex therapy. You can expect an open, supportive, and curious ear, as well as someone who will challenge, encourage and educate.
Have you had desires of what your sex life or relationships could look like, but never known how to make that a reality?
I specialize in working with adult individuals and partners navigating sexuality, identity and relationships. I offer you a warm and open space to explore your goals and desires, paired with extensive training in sex therapy. You can expect an open, supportive, and curious ear, as well as someone who will challenge, encourage and educate.
(443) 543-8345 View (443) 543-8345
Photo of Amanda Schlossberg, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Amanda Schlossberg
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
My expertise lies in treating those experiencing anxiety, depression, substance use issues, trauma, self-esteem, grief/loss, sex/intimacy issues and other mood related concerns.
Are you currently facing changes in mood, experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression or in need of support through life transitions? Are you a couple aiming to improve communication, intimacy, and overall connection? I am here to support you. With over a decade of professional experience, I've worked with diverse individuals and couples addressing various mental health and relationship concerns. Regardless of our backgrounds, we all sometimes need support through life's changes and deserve to be heard and understood. Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but finding the right therapist can be life changing!
My expertise lies in treating those experiencing anxiety, depression, substance use issues, trauma, self-esteem, grief/loss, sex/intimacy issues and other mood related concerns.
Are you currently facing changes in mood, experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression or in need of support through life transitions? Are you a couple aiming to improve communication, intimacy, and overall connection? I am here to support you. With over a decade of professional experience, I've worked with diverse individuals and couples addressing various mental health and relationship concerns. Regardless of our backgrounds, we all sometimes need support through life's changes and deserve to be heard and understood. Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but finding the right therapist can be life changing!
(410) 403-0151 View (410) 403-0151

See more therapy options for Baltimore

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.