Sex Therapists in New Bern, NC

Photo of Nicole Schnarrs, LCSW, CSTIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Schnarrs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSTIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28560
My approach to therapy is person-centered, holistic, strength, and mindfulness-based. My role is to provide non-judgmental support for you in reaching your goals, feeling empowered, and helping you expand healthy awareness by using various forms of expression, talk, and alternative therapy.
My approach to therapy is person-centered, holistic, strength, and mindfulness-based. My role is to provide non-judgmental support for you in reaching your goals, feeling empowered, and helping you expand healthy awareness by using various forms of expression, talk, and alternative therapy.
(252) 378-2691 View (252) 378-2691
Photo of Kate MacDonald, MS, LCMHC, LCASA, NCC, E-RYT, Counselor
Kate MacDonald
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCASA, NCC, E-RYT
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28562
You may feel stuck, frustrated, worried, or not good enough. Maybe you feel out of control, or too in control it's stressing you out & making you anxious. It feels like you're missing out on life, distracted by overwhelming thoughts & emotions. Or maybe you feel sad, lonely, lost, without a purpose. Your relationships may have hit a snag & you're not sure where to turn. You've come to the right place. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, preoccupation with food & your body, lack of intimacy, or just not feeling your best, you can make positive changes that improve your life. You deserve to feel happy, confident, & free.
You may feel stuck, frustrated, worried, or not good enough. Maybe you feel out of control, or too in control it's stressing you out & making you anxious. It feels like you're missing out on life, distracted by overwhelming thoughts & emotions. Or maybe you feel sad, lonely, lost, without a purpose. Your relationships may have hit a snag & you're not sure where to turn. You've come to the right place. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, preoccupation with food & your body, lack of intimacy, or just not feeling your best, you can make positive changes that improve your life. You deserve to feel happy, confident, & free.
(252) 254-2573 View (252) 254-2573
Photo of Michele Ruhmann, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Michele Ruhmann
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28560
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling overwhelmed, physically and emotionally drained, stuck and you don’t know what to do or where to turn next? Moving forward can sometimes feel daunting but you can do it. Begin to take back your power today! You can learn to manage the chaos, calm those defeating thoughts, ease the tension in your body and begin to feel positive. Your story has a purpose and is as unique as you are, we will work together to create a tailored therapy experience to meet your goals using eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), somatic bodywork, and traditional talk therapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, physically and emotionally drained, stuck and you don’t know what to do or where to turn next? Moving forward can sometimes feel daunting but you can do it. Begin to take back your power today! You can learn to manage the chaos, calm those defeating thoughts, ease the tension in your body and begin to feel positive. Your story has a purpose and is as unique as you are, we will work together to create a tailored therapy experience to meet your goals using eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), somatic bodywork, and traditional talk therapy.
(252) 379-5081 View (252) 379-5081
Photo of undefined - Roots to Blooms Counseling PLLC , LCMHCS , LCAS, CCS, LPC, Counselor
Roots to Blooms Counseling PLLC
Counselor, LCMHCS , LCAS, CCS, LPC
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
I HAVE OPENINGS FOR NEW CLIENTS!! Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel trapped by your strong emotional reactions? Are you feeling alone and disconnected in your relationship? Anxious or not good enough? We all have moments in our lives when we need support, and we are not meant to suffer alone. There is no shame in reaching out for help. I help clients work through current struggles & emotional pain by so they can experience calm, self-compassion, freedom and meaning in their lives.
I HAVE OPENINGS FOR NEW CLIENTS!! Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel trapped by your strong emotional reactions? Are you feeling alone and disconnected in your relationship? Anxious or not good enough? We all have moments in our lives when we need support, and we are not meant to suffer alone. There is no shame in reaching out for help. I help clients work through current struggles & emotional pain by so they can experience calm, self-compassion, freedom and meaning in their lives.
(252) 336-9687 View (252) 336-9687
Photo of R. David Morrow, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
R. David Morrow
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28562
Accepting New Clients: Is your dream of living happily ever after with your spouse becoming a frustrating nightmare? Does your conflict with your spouse devolve into criticism of each other? Do you feel like you are constantly defending yourself and developing feelings of contempt for your spouse? Has communication almost completely stopped? Have you or your spouse had an affair or been unfaithful by spending time, energy, and financial resources on things that do not represent the commitments you made to each other? If so, I hear you, and I have been there.
Accepting New Clients: Is your dream of living happily ever after with your spouse becoming a frustrating nightmare? Does your conflict with your spouse devolve into criticism of each other? Do you feel like you are constantly defending yourself and developing feelings of contempt for your spouse? Has communication almost completely stopped? Have you or your spouse had an affair or been unfaithful by spending time, energy, and financial resources on things that do not represent the commitments you made to each other? If so, I hear you, and I have been there.
(252) 254-2983 View (252) 254-2983
Photo of David Bell, PhD, LMFT, LCAS, ADHDCSP, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Bell
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LCAS, ADHDCSP
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28560
As a potential client, know that your courage to face personal vulnerabilities and uncertainties is acknowledged from the start. To realize and understand the efforts you've made already affords us early opportunities to consider possibilities in therapy. Your desired outcome is the goal. The process of sharing, reflecting, and adjusting any internal and relational patterns is our therapy means to this end. The clinical approaches perhaps most reflective in therapy are cognitive-behavioral, inter-personal and family systems, and acceptance/commitment. Interventions are based on your child/family, couple, and individual needs.
As a potential client, know that your courage to face personal vulnerabilities and uncertainties is acknowledged from the start. To realize and understand the efforts you've made already affords us early opportunities to consider possibilities in therapy. Your desired outcome is the goal. The process of sharing, reflecting, and adjusting any internal and relational patterns is our therapy means to this end. The clinical approaches perhaps most reflective in therapy are cognitive-behavioral, inter-personal and family systems, and acceptance/commitment. Interventions are based on your child/family, couple, and individual needs.
(252) 207-0604 View (252) 207-0604

Online Therapists

Photo of undefined - Dr. Ralph Fox II, LCMHC-S, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Ralph Fox II
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC-S, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
As a Certified Sex Therapist, I can help you "unpack" your fears.
The world is very different in 2024 and can cause depression, trauma, anxiety, etc. You need a place to discuss things that you can't or shouldn't talk about w/friends & family. Let's determine your needs in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Let me help empower you, stabilize, & deal with anger, sadness, anxiety, embarrassment, grief, etc. Together we develop a plan. Privacy, discretion, stability & compassion are important to your life & career. I strive to enable people to smile again. Thank you for the opportunity to guide you through life's ups and downs. Helping Individuals & Couples find balance for over 35 years.
As a Certified Sex Therapist, I can help you "unpack" your fears.
The world is very different in 2024 and can cause depression, trauma, anxiety, etc. You need a place to discuss things that you can't or shouldn't talk about w/friends & family. Let's determine your needs in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Let me help empower you, stabilize, & deal with anger, sadness, anxiety, embarrassment, grief, etc. Together we develop a plan. Privacy, discretion, stability & compassion are important to your life & career. I strive to enable people to smile again. Thank you for the opportunity to guide you through life's ups and downs. Helping Individuals & Couples find balance for over 35 years.
(910) 216-4872 View (910) 216-4872
Photo of Dena Marie Johnson, MS, LCMHCA, LCASA, NCC, Counselor
Dena Marie Johnson
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
Women and teenagers struggling with POCD seeking a therapist that would allow them to openly discuss their fears about what they are feeling and thinking. MAPS in search of a therapist that will welcome them with open-mindedness and empathy. Those that have physical disabilities that affect the quality of their sex life, newlyweds, those who have never had an orgasm, those that would like to explore their sexual desires, adolescents that are exploring their sexuality, parents of a child in the LGBTQ community, and anyone that would like to discuss issues related to sex and sexuality that they have been too afraid to ask!
Women and teenagers struggling with POCD seeking a therapist that would allow them to openly discuss their fears about what they are feeling and thinking. MAPS in search of a therapist that will welcome them with open-mindedness and empathy. Those that have physical disabilities that affect the quality of their sex life, newlyweds, those who have never had an orgasm, those that would like to explore their sexual desires, adolescents that are exploring their sexuality, parents of a child in the LGBTQ community, and anyone that would like to discuss issues related to sex and sexuality that they have been too afraid to ask!
(252) 254-2928 View (252) 254-2928
Photo of Nicole McMinn, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole McMinn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
Waitlist for new clients
I have been a mental health professional for 9 years, and specialize in sex therapy and sexual health across the lifespan, genders, and lifestyles.
There are many reasons you may have for seeking help. Maybe you or your loved one are struggling with depression, anxiety, or uncertainty about the person you are or the person you want to become. Perhaps you are seeking to navigate discussions about sexual health with your teens, loved ones, or intimate partner. There are a multitude of stressors and hardships these days, and we want to assure you that we are here for you.
I have been a mental health professional for 9 years, and specialize in sex therapy and sexual health across the lifespan, genders, and lifestyles.
There are many reasons you may have for seeking help. Maybe you or your loved one are struggling with depression, anxiety, or uncertainty about the person you are or the person you want to become. Perhaps you are seeking to navigate discussions about sexual health with your teens, loved ones, or intimate partner. There are a multitude of stressors and hardships these days, and we want to assure you that we are here for you.
(919) 759-5306 View (919) 759-5306
Photo of Rebecca Deardorff, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Deardorff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Waitlist for new clients
Have you struggled to find a therapist who respects your individuality while challenging you to grow? My name is Rebecca, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with eight years of experience in Tennessee and North Carolina. I am passionate about supporting people through their lives ups and downs. My counseling style is focused on the client. I believe they are experts in their own life, and I am here to support them make the changes they want to make in their life. I enjoy working with and have experience with LGBTQ+ clients, and I am poly, sex, and kink-knowledgeable.
Have you struggled to find a therapist who respects your individuality while challenging you to grow? My name is Rebecca, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with eight years of experience in Tennessee and North Carolina. I am passionate about supporting people through their lives ups and downs. My counseling style is focused on the client. I believe they are experts in their own life, and I am here to support them make the changes they want to make in their life. I enjoy working with and have experience with LGBTQ+ clients, and I am poly, sex, and kink-knowledgeable.
(910) 606-6524 View (910) 606-6524
Photo of undefined - Ashley Eldridge, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Eldridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
I am body/sex positive, an advocate for social justice, and love working with clients from diverse backgrounds.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. I have worked for 20 years in mental health, addiction, and disability services with people of all ages in home, community, inpatient, and office settings. Clients contact me with a variety of needs. Some have never been in therapy or have had negative experiences with therapists, whom they feel didn't adequately address their needs. I strive to provide a safe atmosphere of empathy and compassion where you can finally feel accepted and heard. I offer tools, coping skills, and resources to help you tackle current challenges and meet your goals.
I am body/sex positive, an advocate for social justice, and love working with clients from diverse backgrounds.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. I have worked for 20 years in mental health, addiction, and disability services with people of all ages in home, community, inpatient, and office settings. Clients contact me with a variety of needs. Some have never been in therapy or have had negative experiences with therapists, whom they feel didn't adequately address their needs. I strive to provide a safe atmosphere of empathy and compassion where you can finally feel accepted and heard. I offer tools, coping skills, and resources to help you tackle current challenges and meet your goals.
(910) 777-5185 View (910) 777-5185
Photo of Cathy Ann Cosentino, LMFT, Esq, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cathy Ann Cosentino
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, Esq
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
Kevin Bacon was once asked, “What makes your marriage last?” He didn’t miss a beat: “Clean fighting and dirty sex.” He has a point. The way a couple fights truly impacts their health and their relationship. There are additional influences that create disharmony between two people. Loss of connection, loneliness and conflict avoidance are all precursors to infidelity. I work with couples in crisis from the recent discovery of betrayal and/or past addictions and other relationship struggles. Healing won’t be easy, but it is possible. It’s a painful journey that will take time. I work to make that journey easier.
Kevin Bacon was once asked, “What makes your marriage last?” He didn’t miss a beat: “Clean fighting and dirty sex.” He has a point. The way a couple fights truly impacts their health and their relationship. There are additional influences that create disharmony between two people. Loss of connection, loneliness and conflict avoidance are all precursors to infidelity. I work with couples in crisis from the recent discovery of betrayal and/or past addictions and other relationship struggles. Healing won’t be easy, but it is possible. It’s a painful journey that will take time. I work to make that journey easier.
(910) 765-8910 View (910) 765-8910
Photo of Tracy R Perez, MS, LCMHC
Tracy R Perez
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, NC 28546
Out of the office for continuing education until 5/16/24. Emails will be returned promptly on 5/16/24. Are you looking for a specialist in trauma, anxiety, relationships, and sex therapy? I provide a sound space for you to discuss your deepest feelings and worries. Sometimes you need an advocate that is there for you. Friends and family don’t always understand. Or maybe they are not safe to talk to about what is bothering you. I offer in-person therapy in the Jacksonville and surrounding areas AND online therapy throughout North Carolina.
Out of the office for continuing education until 5/16/24. Emails will be returned promptly on 5/16/24. Are you looking for a specialist in trauma, anxiety, relationships, and sex therapy? I provide a sound space for you to discuss your deepest feelings and worries. Sometimes you need an advocate that is there for you. Friends and family don’t always understand. Or maybe they are not safe to talk to about what is bothering you. I offer in-person therapy in the Jacksonville and surrounding areas AND online therapy throughout North Carolina.
(910) 240-4157 View (910) 240-4157
Photo of Shie Benisti, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shie Benisti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
Sexuality is an integral part of the human existence. I believe that embracing and understanding our sexuality is essential for overall well-being. In our sessions, I strive to create a warm, nonjudgmental environment where you can feel safe to explore your sexual concerns, express your authentic self, and work towards positive change. My personal therapeutic style is characterized by warmth, empathy, humor, and a caring yet direct approach.
Sexuality is an integral part of the human existence. I believe that embracing and understanding our sexuality is essential for overall well-being. In our sessions, I strive to create a warm, nonjudgmental environment where you can feel safe to explore your sexual concerns, express your authentic self, and work towards positive change. My personal therapeutic style is characterized by warmth, empathy, humor, and a caring yet direct approach.
(910) 812-4147 View (910) 812-4147
Photo of Amanda Pahl, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Amanda Pahl
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in systemic sex therapy, exploring sexual and relationship issues from a non-judgmental, sex-positive, and kink-affirming perspective.
Are you feeling "stuck" with a problem in your life, relationship, or family and feeling intimidated by the idea of tackling it? I understand how overwhelming it can feel to face these problems head-on but I am here to be a source of support and collaboration, guiding you through the process of change. I am studying at National University and am supervised by a team of experienced therapists who provide ongoing feedback and support: you get multiple therapists in one!
I specialize in systemic sex therapy, exploring sexual and relationship issues from a non-judgmental, sex-positive, and kink-affirming perspective.
Are you feeling "stuck" with a problem in your life, relationship, or family and feeling intimidated by the idea of tackling it? I understand how overwhelming it can feel to face these problems head-on but I am here to be a source of support and collaboration, guiding you through the process of change. I am studying at National University and am supervised by a team of experienced therapists who provide ongoing feedback and support: you get multiple therapists in one!
(919) 635-9394 View (919) 635-9394
Photo of Sophia Dorton Caudle, PhD, LCMHC-S, CSAT-S, CST, CTCT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sophia Dorton Caudle
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHC-S, CSAT-S, CST, CTCT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
I am a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, trained with Dr.
In my clinical practice, I work with adults regarding a wide range of life's emotional and behavioral challenges, and provide services in the areas of trauma, attachment, sex addiction, love addiction, internet and pornography addiction, sex therapy, couples therapy, problematic compulsive behaviors, grief/loss, and more. I offer a highly personalized approach and utilize research based and effective techniques tailored to each of my clients' individual needs to support their personal growth and overall peace and well-being.
I am a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, trained with Dr.
In my clinical practice, I work with adults regarding a wide range of life's emotional and behavioral challenges, and provide services in the areas of trauma, attachment, sex addiction, love addiction, internet and pornography addiction, sex therapy, couples therapy, problematic compulsive behaviors, grief/loss, and more. I offer a highly personalized approach and utilize research based and effective techniques tailored to each of my clients' individual needs to support their personal growth and overall peace and well-being.
(919) 698-7061 View (919) 698-7061
Photo of Sophia Dorton Caudle, PhD, LCMHCS, CSAT-S, CST, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sophia Dorton Caudle
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS, CSAT-S, CST
Verified Verified
Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480
As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist Supervisor, CSAT-S, I am the only sex addiction therapist-supervisor in the greater Wilmington, NC area who is specially trained and highly qualified to work with people who experience sex and porn addiction, and intimacy and attachment issues.
I specialize in sex and pornography addiction, sex therapy, as well as couples and relationship therapy. If you are interested in positive change, then I am a proactive psychotherapist who will work with you to get you feeling better and living the life you want as soon as possible. We will create a treatment plan and measurable goals specific for you and the issues that bring you to therapy. We will also focus on the deeper reasons that cause you pain or conflict. If you want effective psychotherapy, call text at 919-698-7061.
As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist Supervisor, CSAT-S, I am the only sex addiction therapist-supervisor in the greater Wilmington, NC area who is specially trained and highly qualified to work with people who experience sex and porn addiction, and intimacy and attachment issues.
I specialize in sex and pornography addiction, sex therapy, as well as couples and relationship therapy. If you are interested in positive change, then I am a proactive psychotherapist who will work with you to get you feeling better and living the life you want as soon as possible. We will create a treatment plan and measurable goals specific for you and the issues that bring you to therapy. We will also focus on the deeper reasons that cause you pain or conflict. If you want effective psychotherapy, call text at 919-698-7061.
(919) 626-8659 View (919) 626-8659
Photo of Kandice Van Beerschoten Sex Therapist, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kandice Van Beerschoten Sex Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
As a Certified Sex Therapist, my specialties are consensual non-monogamy, polyamory, and BDSM - NO JUDGMENT.
Have you lost control? Do you put the needs of others first? Is it hard for you to say "no" to people? Do you feel disconnected? Are your relationships suffering? Your sex life? You're exhausted, ready for something to change, but need to feel confident that your therapist will understand not only your issues, but your lifestyle. If this sounds familiar, then I would love to help you. For nearly two decades, I've worked with people just like you, helping them sort through the intricacies of life and relationships. It's easy to get stuck when you start making changes, but therapy is a great way to move forward.
As a Certified Sex Therapist, my specialties are consensual non-monogamy, polyamory, and BDSM - NO JUDGMENT.
Have you lost control? Do you put the needs of others first? Is it hard for you to say "no" to people? Do you feel disconnected? Are your relationships suffering? Your sex life? You're exhausted, ready for something to change, but need to feel confident that your therapist will understand not only your issues, but your lifestyle. If this sounds familiar, then I would love to help you. For nearly two decades, I've worked with people just like you, helping them sort through the intricacies of life and relationships. It's easy to get stuck when you start making changes, but therapy is a great way to move forward.
(919) 343-9591 View (919) 343-9591
Photo of undefined - Bull City Psychotherapy, PLLC, PhD, LPC-S, LCSW, LCAS, CSAT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bull City Psychotherapy, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LCSW, LCAS, CSAT-S
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Bull City Psychotherapy specializes in treating sex addiction and porn addiction.
Welcome to Bull City Psychotherapy. We are a caring group of psychotherapists who are passionate about helping others improve their moods, improve relationships, and recover from addictions. We offer a private and comfortable environment for our work with you, so you can feel safe and at ease. We are all highly trained in our areas of expertise, and we value our clients achieving their goals and moving forward. We believe in effective therapy that works.
Bull City Psychotherapy specializes in treating sex addiction and porn addiction.
Welcome to Bull City Psychotherapy. We are a caring group of psychotherapists who are passionate about helping others improve their moods, improve relationships, and recover from addictions. We offer a private and comfortable environment for our work with you, so you can feel safe and at ease. We are all highly trained in our areas of expertise, and we value our clients achieving their goals and moving forward. We believe in effective therapy that works.
(919) 698-7061 View (919) 698-7061
Photo of Liza M. Shaw, MA, LMFT, ACHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Liza M. Shaw
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ACHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carolina Beach, NC 28428
From addictions to codependency, sexuality concerns to extramarital affairs, behavior problems in children, & many other issues, I assist people in putting the past behind them, allowing them to design lives they really love.
I consider it my personal mission to reduce the divorce rate in the United States, 1 couple at a time. But preventing divorce will only be succesful if, in place of unfulfilling or chronically dysfunctional marriages, couples develop truly thriving marriages & deeply fulfilling relationships. Even in the most hopeless-seeming cases, couples can heal the damage from the past and move forward in a healthier way. Not all marriages can be saved, but when couples do the work to heal the past, their future can be happier, no matter what the outcome for the relationship.
From addictions to codependency, sexuality concerns to extramarital affairs, behavior problems in children, & many other issues, I assist people in putting the past behind them, allowing them to design lives they really love.
I consider it my personal mission to reduce the divorce rate in the United States, 1 couple at a time. But preventing divorce will only be succesful if, in place of unfulfilling or chronically dysfunctional marriages, couples develop truly thriving marriages & deeply fulfilling relationships. Even in the most hopeless-seeming cases, couples can heal the damage from the past and move forward in a healthier way. Not all marriages can be saved, but when couples do the work to heal the past, their future can be happier, no matter what the outcome for the relationship.
(828) 202-3074 View (828) 202-3074

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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.