Sex Therapy in Ann Arbor, MI

Are you having trouble connecting sexually and struggle with intimacy or sexual health questions? Are you worried your relationship cant handle more infidelity and conflict? We are taught relationships dont take work, should be hot and spontaneous forever, LIES. Relationships and keeping a sexual connection takes work, we need to put in some effort to keep things moving. Sometimes our bodies don’t do exactly what we want, our bodies change in ability, age, function and appearance and our sexual expectations and communication skills need to change too. I specialize in marriage counseling and sex therapy . I am transgender affirming

As the Greek Philosopher, Heraclitus, stated, "The only constant in life is change." We all experience transitions in life, but we do not need to go through them alone. Similar to hiring an architect when building a house, or a personal trainer when working on fitness goals, my role is to assist you in navigating your way through the twists and turns of life's transitions.

As a coach and therapist, my approach centers around empowerment and the integral role relationships play in our lives. A self-identified life long learner, I pride myself on sharing information and relevant resources with clients. My work is both goal oriented and client directed. My therapeutic approach is attachment-based and utilizes an eclectic mix of modalities including interpersonal therapy, CBT, strengths-based, and trauma-focused therapy. Areas of interest include sexuality , relationships, depression,, anxiety, transitions, and trauma.

Relationships are hard - full of ups and downs. At times, it may feel like you are living as roommates. Some days, everything is great. Other days, you don't know what happened to make you feel so alone. Maybe your partner was unfaithful and you don't know how you're ever going to trust them again. Maybe you can't remember the last time you had sex . Maybe one or both of you are thinking of ending the relationship. You don't have to feel stuck this way forever.

I provide culturally-responsive and affirming individual therapy to youth and adults. My therapeutic practice is based on radical honesty and collaboration, grounded in trauma-informed practices and mind-body connection. I center your voice and experiences to support healing, empowerment, and self-compassion. I'm also committed to social justice, and I recognize the many ways a person’s health and wellbeing can be impacted by social challenges. Together, we can work towards healing and self-determination.

RISE - Resilient Inclusive Sexual Health Education & Therapy. The framework/lens from which RISE operates are vital components to the practice. RISE unapologetically upholds the following values; to challenge systems of oppression & create positive change in the world through disseminating radical compassion & support for those folxs/communities often marginalized. A Social Justice Lens - Anti Racist - LGBTQ+ Queer Affirming - Trans/Non-binary/GNC - Feminist - Sex Positive - KINK/BDSM - Fat Positive/Health at Every Size - Consensual Non-Monogamy - Disability/Neurodiversity - Intersectional Identities.

I am most qualified to treat people who are having problems in living fulfilling lives because of troubling symptoms (e.g., anxiety, depression) or general dissatisfaction with themselves and relationships. I believe my treatment approach contributes to personal growth at any age. My rigorous training, 10 years post-Ph.D. has qualified me as a Training/Supervising Analyst who treats other therapists, and supervises other therapists--psychologists, psychiatrists, and social workers in their work with adults, children and adolescents. As a Certified Sex Therapist, I treat sexual and marital dysfunctions. As a child psychoanalyst, I treat children and work with parents in parent guidance.

If you are reading my personal statement, you are probably in distress and at least considering looking for therapist. It takes lots of courage to start therapy and address issues that cause you pain in your life. You probably have already tried to cope on your own, and discovered that it did not work. As a therapist, I can help you by providing a different perspective, new insight, and teach you skills so you can learn to manage your present and future challenges on your own.

The decision to start therapy signals an interest and curiosity about becoming more grounded and present in our lives. Each of us has a unique set of strengths and challenges that shape who we are and how we experience relationships. My therapeutic approach is trauma-informed and draws on psychodynamic, sensorimotor, and mindfulness based modalities. I work with clients from a practical, here-and-now perspective while attending to the impact of relational, cultural, and early childhood experiences. I am Level 1 Basic Trained in Somatic and Attachment Focused EMDR. I also work with grief & loss, depression, and body image/acceptance.

Do you want to feel more intimate with your partner? More deeply connected? More attraction, more desire, a more intense level of loving sexual intimacy? I want to help. I love helping couples get the deep emotional and sexual intimacy they want in their relationship. When sexual problems occur, it can seem to signal a problem with the relationship or with you. But that's NOT true! In fact, the kind of intense real intimacy that lasts for years is not usually automatic. In fact, a good road map makes all the difference.

The decision to seek therapy is positive and courageous! It is important to find the right therapist to help you with your problems. I assess the biological, psychological and social aspects of a person, couple or family. I use psychodynamic and cognitive behavior to treat the following problems: depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma and chronic illness. I am also a certified sex therapist.

Reaching out and seeking support for yourself can be extremely vulnerable and taxing, especially when you've already been trying to manage overwhelming emotions and the issues of every day life. Even if we do not end up working together, I am glad that you are out here exploring what kind of help is available for you. Shopping for therapists can be tricky. Wherever you are in your journey, my goal is to meet you there and help you discover safe and inviting possibilities towards your goals.

Life can be painful; we often lose sight of ourselves and the things that matter to us most while we try to manage our distress the best we can. As your therapist I will help you find your path to a fulfilling, authentic, and meaningful life, even when faced with the suffering that life undoubtedly brings. I believe therapy should be a safe and affirming space for you to explore the context of your troubles, recognize your strengths, and find a path to healing, connection, and value.

Are you having relationship problems or sexual difficulties? I specialize in working with women and couples seeking sex therapy and couples counseling to improve intimacy and communication and to deal with desire discrepancy and conflict. I work with women's sexual health issues: vaginismus, sexual trauma, past abuse, pelvic pain, low desire. There is help, don't suffer! Call me. I offer a client-centered approach and trauma-informed care to help you as a unique individual or couple. I am honored to work with you. Together we can also address anxiety, grief and loss, depression, PTSD, and more! Website: www.paulakirschlmsw.com