Photo of Ashley King, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lancaster County, PA
Ashley King
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, EdM, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17602
Areas of interest & specialty include: Generalized anxiety & depression, spiritual & existential concerns, somatic & body-centered work, women’s issues, couples, creatives, helping professionals, HSPs, life transitions, grief & loss, relationships & sexuality, LGBTQ+ issues.
Three beliefs I hold that influence how I practice are 1) human beings are not problems to be solved 2) therapy is ultimately about relationship 3) the process itself is the solution. We humans are infinitely complex; we're full of opposition and paradox. Our culture pushes quick fixes and immediate answers, but lasting change rarely comes about when we work in this way. I'm interested in helping you come into fuller, richer, more conscious relationship with all of your moving and sometimes disparate parts. Together we will work from the inside out through a deep, relational process.
Areas of interest & specialty include: Generalized anxiety & depression, spiritual & existential concerns, somatic & body-centered work, women’s issues, couples, creatives, helping professionals, HSPs, life transitions, grief & loss, relationships & sexuality, LGBTQ+ issues.
Three beliefs I hold that influence how I practice are 1) human beings are not problems to be solved 2) therapy is ultimately about relationship 3) the process itself is the solution. We humans are infinitely complex; we're full of opposition and paradox. Our culture pushes quick fixes and immediate answers, but lasting change rarely comes about when we work in this way. I'm interested in helping you come into fuller, richer, more conscious relationship with all of your moving and sometimes disparate parts. Together we will work from the inside out through a deep, relational process.
(215) 995-0219 View (215) 995-0219
Photo of Anjé McLish, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lancaster County, PA
Anjé McLish
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, KIC, CNM
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603  (Online Only)
Relationships, sex, and intimacy can be hard to talk about, and you don’t have to do this on your own! I value collaboration, participation, and engagement, and my hope is that therapy can support you in finding increased capacity for connection, choice, and clarity.
Are you experiencing uncertainty in your relationships? Find yourself dating the same kinds of people? If you’re having difficulties in your interpersonal relationships, I’ll be right there with you providing empathy, clarity, and some humor to help with the changes you want to make. I work with individuals wanting to better their relationship with themselves, and couples (monogamous and non-monogamous) wanting to cultivate genuine connection, joy, and pleasure.
Relationships, sex, and intimacy can be hard to talk about, and you don’t have to do this on your own! I value collaboration, participation, and engagement, and my hope is that therapy can support you in finding increased capacity for connection, choice, and clarity.
Are you experiencing uncertainty in your relationships? Find yourself dating the same kinds of people? If you’re having difficulties in your interpersonal relationships, I’ll be right there with you providing empathy, clarity, and some humor to help with the changes you want to make. I work with individuals wanting to better their relationship with themselves, and couples (monogamous and non-monogamous) wanting to cultivate genuine connection, joy, and pleasure.
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Photo of Addie Mooney, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lancaster County, PA
Addie Mooney
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, APC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601  (Online Only)
I also provide trauma-informed sex therapy that can assist with a variety of issues including vaginismus, pain during sex, and general anxiety or discomfort around sex and one’s sexual and gender identities.
Welcome! As a therapist my goal is to create a non-judgmental and supportive space where it feels safe to explore and grow. I have extensive experience supporting survivors of sexual assault and relational trauma (domestic violence, childhood abuse) as well as a strong understanding of narcissistic abuse and codependency. I also work with individuals that may be experiencing anxiety, depression, and OCD as well as life stress from difficult loss or transitions. My therapeutic approach integrates a psychodynamic and interpersonal framework along with some elements of Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CF-CBT).
I also provide trauma-informed sex therapy that can assist with a variety of issues including vaginismus, pain during sex, and general anxiety or discomfort around sex and one’s sexual and gender identities.
Welcome! As a therapist my goal is to create a non-judgmental and supportive space where it feels safe to explore and grow. I have extensive experience supporting survivors of sexual assault and relational trauma (domestic violence, childhood abuse) as well as a strong understanding of narcissistic abuse and codependency. I also work with individuals that may be experiencing anxiety, depression, and OCD as well as life stress from difficult loss or transitions. My therapeutic approach integrates a psychodynamic and interpersonal framework along with some elements of Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CF-CBT).
(610) 686-8690 View (610) 686-8690
Photo of Ashley Ruhl, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lancaster County, PA
Ashley Ruhl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elizabethtown, PA 17022  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi there! I'm so glad you're here, taking the steps to find what you need- whether that be to learn more about yourself, develop skills to cope with being a human in this difficult world, or to just be heard in a loving space. LGBTQIA+ affirming, intersectional feminist, sex-positive. I specialize in working with female and non-binary folks ages pre-adolescence into adulthood from all backgrounds and lifestyles. I am currently not accepting men or young children. I specialize in working through issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, interpersonal relationship struggles, and adjusting through life's hardships.
Hi there! I'm so glad you're here, taking the steps to find what you need- whether that be to learn more about yourself, develop skills to cope with being a human in this difficult world, or to just be heard in a loving space. LGBTQIA+ affirming, intersectional feminist, sex-positive. I specialize in working with female and non-binary folks ages pre-adolescence into adulthood from all backgrounds and lifestyles. I am currently not accepting men or young children. I specialize in working through issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, interpersonal relationship struggles, and adjusting through life's hardships.
(223) 217-3064 View (223) 217-3064
Photo of Nancy Mehesy - Jabbok Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lancaster County, PA
Nancy Mehesy - Jabbok Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MAMFT
Verified Verified
Manheim, PA 17545
I help with many issues including: Fear, panic, anxiety, depression, parenting struggles, ADHD, trauma, fighting, abuse, sexual abuse, sex therapy, affair recovery, cutting, substance abuse, pornography, behavior problems, grief, marriage struggles & more.
I am a fully licensed Marriage & Family Therapist treating individuals, couples and families. I hope to help you rediscover your strengths as well as the patterns that hinder your success and connection to those you care about. I enjoy helping families learn how to grow closer together and navigate the inevitable struggles of life. I use play therapy and toys with children to utilize the natural language of play. If you have experienced trauma, abuse or sexual abuse, I would like to help create a safe place to journey alongside you and care for the wounds that impact your life.
I help with many issues including: Fear, panic, anxiety, depression, parenting struggles, ADHD, trauma, fighting, abuse, sexual abuse, sex therapy, affair recovery, cutting, substance abuse, pornography, behavior problems, grief, marriage struggles & more.
I am a fully licensed Marriage & Family Therapist treating individuals, couples and families. I hope to help you rediscover your strengths as well as the patterns that hinder your success and connection to those you care about. I enjoy helping families learn how to grow closer together and navigate the inevitable struggles of life. I use play therapy and toys with children to utilize the natural language of play. If you have experienced trauma, abuse or sexual abuse, I would like to help create a safe place to journey alongside you and care for the wounds that impact your life.
(717) 945-0401 View (717) 945-0401
Photo of West Philly Therapy Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lancaster County, PA
West Philly Therapy Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601
West Philly Therapy Center is a group practice that specializes in working with relationship, sexuality and gender related issues. While each of our therapist has their own style and specialty, they are all collectively & actively working from an anti-racist, queer & trans affirming, social justice, and trauma-informed lens. We provide a warm, collaborative and compassionate space for clients to process, explore, grow, and heal. We strive to develop a therapeutic environment of mutual trust, respect and care, where the complexities of each client's experiences and identities are honored.
West Philly Therapy Center is a group practice that specializes in working with relationship, sexuality and gender related issues. While each of our therapist has their own style and specialty, they are all collectively & actively working from an anti-racist, queer & trans affirming, social justice, and trauma-informed lens. We provide a warm, collaborative and compassionate space for clients to process, explore, grow, and heal. We strive to develop a therapeutic environment of mutual trust, respect and care, where the complexities of each client's experiences and identities are honored.
(215) 201-4599 View (215) 201-4599
Photo of Bridget Kelly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lancaster County, PA
Bridget Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BS, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601
Whether you are struggling individually, within a relationship, or with sexual issues or concerns, my goal is to help navigate through these issues, offering a compassionate lens and a chance to refocus on your goals and ultimately achieving what you most desire out of life. Through providing a safe and judgement free environment, my focus is to help individuals or couples reflect on changes they would like to make in their lives.
Whether you are struggling individually, within a relationship, or with sexual issues or concerns, my goal is to help navigate through these issues, offering a compassionate lens and a chance to refocus on your goals and ultimately achieving what you most desire out of life. Through providing a safe and judgement free environment, my focus is to help individuals or couples reflect on changes they would like to make in their lives.
(717) 543-0014 View (717) 543-0014
Photo of Crystal Horninger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lancaster County, PA
Crystal Horninger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17602  (Online Only)
Counseling is a space where you can explore, process, heal and grow. By being vulnerable we can allow ourselves the space to reflect on who we are now and where we have come from. I believe that we deserve a space where we can feel safe, comfortable and free from judgement. In this space, we can take out some of the boxes that are stored away and discover how we can let go of what no longer serves us while creating new ways of being and relating to ourselves, others, and the world around us .
Counseling is a space where you can explore, process, heal and grow. By being vulnerable we can allow ourselves the space to reflect on who we are now and where we have come from. I believe that we deserve a space where we can feel safe, comfortable and free from judgement. In this space, we can take out some of the boxes that are stored away and discover how we can let go of what no longer serves us while creating new ways of being and relating to ourselves, others, and the world around us .
(215) 261-5175 View (215) 261-5175
Photo of Elena Roth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lancaster County, PA
Elena Roth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lititz, PA 17543
I provide a safe, inclusive environment for clients to "Come As You Are" and build on the existing strengths that exist in each person. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with my Master's and undergraduate degrees in Social Work. I also have High Honors from the Phi Alpha Honor Society for my study in the field. I have over 14 years of experience working in the human services fields. I am Certified in Sexual Abuse Trauma by the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress. I am EMDR trained and provide intensive EMDR sessions. I combine my knowledge of trauma and EMDR.
I provide a safe, inclusive environment for clients to "Come As You Are" and build on the existing strengths that exist in each person. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with my Master's and undergraduate degrees in Social Work. I also have High Honors from the Phi Alpha Honor Society for my study in the field. I have over 14 years of experience working in the human services fields. I am Certified in Sexual Abuse Trauma by the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress. I am EMDR trained and provide intensive EMDR sessions. I combine my knowledge of trauma and EMDR.
(717) 356-3218 View (717) 356-3218
Photo of Dr. Dawnielle D. Simmons, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lancaster County, PA
Dr. Dawnielle D. Simmons
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603  (Online Only)
The human experience is complex and layered. It is often taken for granted and underestimated. In our profession, it is a privilege to have access to such complexities; a privilege to witness the moment when despair transforms into hope and futility no longer exists. Humans are vast and exploration is limitless. As a psychologist, I would be remiss by engaging my work without intentionality, humility, and culturally appropriate care. As someone with marginalized identities, I find value in reflecting in the moment with clients. I use a multicultural counseling model to address the unique needs of clients of color and LGBTQ+ folks.
The human experience is complex and layered. It is often taken for granted and underestimated. In our profession, it is a privilege to have access to such complexities; a privilege to witness the moment when despair transforms into hope and futility no longer exists. Humans are vast and exploration is limitless. As a psychologist, I would be remiss by engaging my work without intentionality, humility, and culturally appropriate care. As someone with marginalized identities, I find value in reflecting in the moment with clients. I use a multicultural counseling model to address the unique needs of clients of color and LGBTQ+ folks.
(717) 229-0124 View (717) 229-0124
Photo of Yvonne Foster, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lancaster County, PA
Yvonne Foster
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601  (Online Only)
I have over 20 years of experience providing mental health therapy to individual's, couples, and families. I believe that you should not be in therapy for years, but should be quickly making the changes in your life to get you out of therapy. The goal of therapy is to help you to determine what those changes are and then to help you take the necessary steps to make those changes.
I have over 20 years of experience providing mental health therapy to individual's, couples, and families. I believe that you should not be in therapy for years, but should be quickly making the changes in your life to get you out of therapy. The goal of therapy is to help you to determine what those changes are and then to help you take the necessary steps to make those changes.
(717) 524-1140 View (717) 524-1140
Photo of Daena Longenecker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lancaster County, PA
Daena Longenecker
Marriage & Family Therapist, BSed, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Joy, PA 17552
Facilitating healing in relationships and families drives my work as a marriage and family therapist. I love the powerful potentialities available for clients through our work together. Further, I am mindful to carefully listen to my clients and then collaborate with them to form goals for our work together in therapy. I understand that my clients need a safe place to experience the richness of life available when they feel heard and validated in relationship.
Facilitating healing in relationships and families drives my work as a marriage and family therapist. I love the powerful potentialities available for clients through our work together. Further, I am mindful to carefully listen to my clients and then collaborate with them to form goals for our work together in therapy. I understand that my clients need a safe place to experience the richness of life available when they feel heard and validated in relationship.
(717) 417-4884 View (717) 417-4884
Photo of Shadena L Natty, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lancaster County, PA
Shadena L Natty
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, MS, CAADC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601
Life today creates many challenges and obstacles, but also opportunities to grow. Counseling can be a vital part to gaining and maintaining a healthy and well-balanced life. I view therapy as a way to heal through telling your story in a non-judgmental and safe setting. Therapy will give you the tools which will allow you to live your best life. Are you ready to start your counseling journey?
Life today creates many challenges and obstacles, but also opportunities to grow. Counseling can be a vital part to gaining and maintaining a healthy and well-balanced life. I view therapy as a way to heal through telling your story in a non-judgmental and safe setting. Therapy will give you the tools which will allow you to live your best life. Are you ready to start your counseling journey?
(717) 696-1294 View (717) 696-1294
Photo of Advanced Counseling and Research Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lancaster County, PA
Advanced Counseling and Research Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC-FL, CCMHC, CCTP, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603
Advanced Counseling and Research Services provides a comprehensive array of professional counseling services to the greater Lancaster community. In general terms, these clinical services help clients address problematic issues in their lives that are impacting on their daily lives. Throughout the counseling experience, the counselor and client work collaboratively to address problems presented by the client. The overall purpose of counseling can be summarized in the following objectives: To identify the problematic issues facing each individual client seeking counseling. To identify secondary issues contributing to problem.
Advanced Counseling and Research Services provides a comprehensive array of professional counseling services to the greater Lancaster community. In general terms, these clinical services help clients address problematic issues in their lives that are impacting on their daily lives. Throughout the counseling experience, the counselor and client work collaboratively to address problems presented by the client. The overall purpose of counseling can be summarized in the following objectives: To identify the problematic issues facing each individual client seeking counseling. To identify secondary issues contributing to problem.
(717) 964-8581 View (717) 964-8581
Photo of The Family Wellness Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lancaster County, PA
The Family Wellness Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MATS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601  (Online Only)
Deborah Coulston, MA, MATS, CIMHP, LMFT, is an experienced professional psychotherapist, marital and family therapist, expressive arts therapist, and pioneer in the field of nutrition psychology, integrative mental health and alternative health modalities. Ms. Coulston is well known for her work in the treatment field of eating disorders & weight management, and for her expertise in both childhood and adult trauma, as well as the field of behavioral addictions. As the owner of The Family Wellness Center, she brings a diversified background to the practice of expressive arts therapy, clinical counseling, & holistic psychotherapy.
Deborah Coulston, MA, MATS, CIMHP, LMFT, is an experienced professional psychotherapist, marital and family therapist, expressive arts therapist, and pioneer in the field of nutrition psychology, integrative mental health and alternative health modalities. Ms. Coulston is well known for her work in the treatment field of eating disorders & weight management, and for her expertise in both childhood and adult trauma, as well as the field of behavioral addictions. As the owner of The Family Wellness Center, she brings a diversified background to the practice of expressive arts therapy, clinical counseling, & holistic psychotherapy.
(717) 229-0492 View (717) 229-0492

Online Therapists

Photo of Anna Stewart, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lancaster County, PA
Anna Stewart
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Anna Stewart is a graduate of Thomas Jefferson University’s Couple and Family Therapy Program with a concentration in sex therapy. She is a systemically-oriented therapist who has experience working with individuals, couples, and families. She specializes in distressed couples with one or both individuals experiencing diagnoses such as depression, and anxiety. She has a background in sex education and enjoys working with teens and young adults navigating their social and romantic relationships. She also specializes in clients that are working in the food and beverage service industry, a population she is well-acquainted with.
Anna Stewart is a graduate of Thomas Jefferson University’s Couple and Family Therapy Program with a concentration in sex therapy. She is a systemically-oriented therapist who has experience working with individuals, couples, and families. She specializes in distressed couples with one or both individuals experiencing diagnoses such as depression, and anxiety. She has a background in sex education and enjoys working with teens and young adults navigating their social and romantic relationships. She also specializes in clients that are working in the food and beverage service industry, a population she is well-acquainted with.
(301) 691-4193 View (301) 691-4193
Photo of Rebecca Pierce, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lancaster County, PA
Rebecca Pierce
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Glen Mills, PA 19342  (Online Only)
I have specializations in trauma and sexuality, and I use an eclectic, holistic framework where my therapeutic style will adjust to meet your needs.
I am one of those therapists who genuinely loves their work. Getting to understand my clients and the hurdles they face is a privilege that I take seriously. If you are struggling to form and maintain healthy intimate relationships, overcome trauma, to coexist with and even manage anxiety and depression, to gain new approaches to coping with obsessive compulsive symptoms... well, these are just a few of the issues that we can work on together! We can navigate this journey as a team, collaborate on setting realistic goals, and then you can define what "progress" would look like in your eyes.
I have specializations in trauma and sexuality, and I use an eclectic, holistic framework where my therapeutic style will adjust to meet your needs.
I am one of those therapists who genuinely loves their work. Getting to understand my clients and the hurdles they face is a privilege that I take seriously. If you are struggling to form and maintain healthy intimate relationships, overcome trauma, to coexist with and even manage anxiety and depression, to gain new approaches to coping with obsessive compulsive symptoms... well, these are just a few of the issues that we can work on together! We can navigate this journey as a team, collaborate on setting realistic goals, and then you can define what "progress" would look like in your eyes.
(484) 229-5139 View (484) 229-5139
Photo of Edie Weinstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lancaster County, PA
Edie Weinstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richboro, PA 18954
I specialize in relationships, spirituality, addiction/recovery, stress management, trauma, depression, anxiety, women's issues, body image, sexuality, career growth, family, recovery from illness or injury, aging, loss and grief.
I welcome someone who is ready to make life changes and would like assistance to take them from where they are to where they want to be. A willingness to work with a supportive, experienced (since 1979) social worker/therapist who uses dynamic and interactive approaches, knowing that I am the guide, and you are the one who knows yourself best and that healing comes from within. Relationship, self esteem, body image, career goals, family challenge, sexuality, spirituality, illness, loss, addiction, depression or anxiety related issues. I offered my first TEDx talk called Overcoming the Taboo of Touch, about platonic touch by consent.
I specialize in relationships, spirituality, addiction/recovery, stress management, trauma, depression, anxiety, women's issues, body image, sexuality, career growth, family, recovery from illness or injury, aging, loss and grief.
I welcome someone who is ready to make life changes and would like assistance to take them from where they are to where they want to be. A willingness to work with a supportive, experienced (since 1979) social worker/therapist who uses dynamic and interactive approaches, knowing that I am the guide, and you are the one who knows yourself best and that healing comes from within. Relationship, self esteem, body image, career goals, family challenge, sexuality, spirituality, illness, loss, addiction, depression or anxiety related issues. I offered my first TEDx talk called Overcoming the Taboo of Touch, about platonic touch by consent.
(267) 641-3762 View (267) 641-3762
Photo of Erica M Thomke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lancaster County, PA
Erica M Thomke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lafayette Hill, PA 19444  (Online Only)
My education in human sexuality enables me to help others navigate the intimate aspects of themselves and their relationships.
My passion is supporting professionals in helping fields access their vulnerability to live more authentically. Helpers can hide behind compassion and caregiving at the expense of their own needs and boundaries. Sometimes this appears as resentment, difficulty emoting, or not feeling SEEN in your personal life. Good professionalism necessitates good self-work, and I'm here to support you in accessing the parts of you needing some TLC. As a relational therapist, I work with you to build on your natural self awareness and insight to explore your patterns and reframe/rescript them.
My education in human sexuality enables me to help others navigate the intimate aspects of themselves and their relationships.
My passion is supporting professionals in helping fields access their vulnerability to live more authentically. Helpers can hide behind compassion and caregiving at the expense of their own needs and boundaries. Sometimes this appears as resentment, difficulty emoting, or not feeling SEEN in your personal life. Good professionalism necessitates good self-work, and I'm here to support you in accessing the parts of you needing some TLC. As a relational therapist, I work with you to build on your natural self awareness and insight to explore your patterns and reframe/rescript them.
(484) 441-0057 View (484) 441-0057
Photo of Jordan Marisa Roe, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lancaster County, PA
Jordan Marisa Roe
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I'm a great fit for queer folk, teens, intellectualizers, or anyone dealing with relationship anxiety, body image issues, gender and sexuality exploration, emotional disregulation, and low self-esteem.
Do you feel stuck and tangled in your own head? Process your thoughts and feelings in session with me, Jordan (she/hers)! We'll explore your mind non-judgmentally to carefully unravel what can feel at times like a knotted mess. Feeling misunderstood is isolating–let's develop a deeper understanding of yourself together, and probably giggle along the way.
I'm a great fit for queer folk, teens, intellectualizers, or anyone dealing with relationship anxiety, body image issues, gender and sexuality exploration, emotional disregulation, and low self-esteem.
Do you feel stuck and tangled in your own head? Process your thoughts and feelings in session with me, Jordan (she/hers)! We'll explore your mind non-judgmentally to carefully unravel what can feel at times like a knotted mess. Feeling misunderstood is isolating–let's develop a deeper understanding of yourself together, and probably giggle along the way.
(484) 930-1878 View (484) 930-1878

See more therapy options for Lancaster County

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.