Sex Therapists in Birmingham, AL

Photo of Misty Smith, PhD, LPC-S Certified Sex Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Misty Smith, PhD, LPC-S Certified Sex Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, CST, NCC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
Couples Counseling (Sex Therapy/Martial/Premarital): NOT covered by insurance.
Sexual issues with you and/or your partner including sexual dysfunctions such as low libido/sexual desire discrepancy, sexual pain, ED (men), etc. can be overwhelming & difficult to navigate or even discuss. I provide a safe, judgement-free environment to process & address these struggles as well as sexual identity & alternative lifestyle issues/struggles. Also treating: Relationship/Marital/Pre-Marital, Sexual Addiction & Anxiety/Depression related to Sexual Issues.
Couples Counseling (Sex Therapy/Martial/Premarital): NOT covered by insurance.
Sexual issues with you and/or your partner including sexual dysfunctions such as low libido/sexual desire discrepancy, sexual pain, ED (men), etc. can be overwhelming & difficult to navigate or even discuss. I provide a safe, judgement-free environment to process & address these struggles as well as sexual identity & alternative lifestyle issues/struggles. Also treating: Relationship/Marital/Pre-Marital, Sexual Addiction & Anxiety/Depression related to Sexual Issues.
(205) 377-5820 x700 View (205) 377-5820 x700
Photo of Nneka L. Hartfield, Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Nneka L. Hartfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CST, CPC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35226
Nneka Hartfield is a licensed therapist, certified sex therapist and certified life coach that believes change is possible when an individual/couple has the right tools to lead them towards success. When working with clients, she takes a holistic approach to counseling, in order to encourage the client to create their own change. With this, she strives to help clients to utilize their life experiences to break down barriers and build the life they want one brick at a time.
Nneka Hartfield is a licensed therapist, certified sex therapist and certified life coach that believes change is possible when an individual/couple has the right tools to lead them towards success. When working with clients, she takes a holistic approach to counseling, in order to encourage the client to create their own change. With this, she strives to help clients to utilize their life experiences to break down barriers and build the life they want one brick at a time.
(205) 236-5540 View (205) 236-5540
Photo of Rachel Chappell Greenlaw, Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Rachel Chappell Greenlaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed , NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35201
You are the expert on your life and your experiences. My goal is to provide a safe place for you to unpack all of your life's challenges. One of the most important parts of counseling is the therapeutic relationship between counselor and client. Together, I hope, we can build that relationship to enable you to find the best version of yourself. Additionally, I hope I can provide a safe place for you to discover yourself and your sexuality.
You are the expert on your life and your experiences. My goal is to provide a safe place for you to unpack all of your life's challenges. One of the most important parts of counseling is the therapeutic relationship between counselor and client. Together, I hope, we can build that relationship to enable you to find the best version of yourself. Additionally, I hope I can provide a safe place for you to discover yourself and your sexuality.
(205) 973-6635 View (205) 973-6635
Photo of Alena Porter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Alena Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35203  (Online Only)
I provide sex positive nonjudgmental sex therapy.
Sex is a normal, necessary part of human existence. Ideally, sex makes us feel happy, loved, and connected. Yet many people experience problems with sex including pain, lack of desire, or an inability to reach orgasm. Have you avoided talking to a sex therapist because you are afraid they’ll judge you? I will never judge you. Nothing you say is going to shock me, scare me, or make me stop working with you. Have you ever had a sexual encounter that was other than consentual but you didn't know who to talk to or even what to say about it? If so, I can help you work through your thoughts and feelings about sex and sexual experiences
I provide sex positive nonjudgmental sex therapy.
Sex is a normal, necessary part of human existence. Ideally, sex makes us feel happy, loved, and connected. Yet many people experience problems with sex including pain, lack of desire, or an inability to reach orgasm. Have you avoided talking to a sex therapist because you are afraid they’ll judge you? I will never judge you. Nothing you say is going to shock me, scare me, or make me stop working with you. Have you ever had a sexual encounter that was other than consentual but you didn't know who to talk to or even what to say about it? If so, I can help you work through your thoughts and feelings about sex and sexual experiences
(256) 300-6088 View (256) 300-6088
Photo of Kelley Massengale, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Birmingham, AL
Kelley Massengale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35243  (Online Only)
As a psychotherapist and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, I treat a wide range of sexual, relationship and intimacy issues. I work with individuals and couples. Sex is one of the deepest and most powerful experiences we have and it can also be a source of great stress and shame when things do not go as smoothly as we would like. Cultural messages and biases can further compound these issues. I provide a safe and nonjudgemental environment for individuals or couples to discuss these issues.
As a psychotherapist and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, I treat a wide range of sexual, relationship and intimacy issues. I work with individuals and couples. Sex is one of the deepest and most powerful experiences we have and it can also be a source of great stress and shame when things do not go as smoothly as we would like. Cultural messages and biases can further compound these issues. I provide a safe and nonjudgemental environment for individuals or couples to discuss these issues.
(205) 964-9561 View (205) 964-9561
Photo of Dr. Kirsten Hill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Dr. Kirsten Hill
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35244
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with sex and sexuality concerns, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and more through talk, play, and art therapy.
Life is ever changing. Who we are and how we view ourselves is fluid and evolves as we grow and learn. Our environment, life circumstances, and relationships further influence our perspective. Change can be hard and it is normal to need support and affirmation as you navigate the stressors in your life. It is my goal to to nurture your journey of growth and healing. Additionally, concerns about your sexuality and sexual health can be overwhelming. I hope to help you navigate through any insecurities in a sex positive, non shaming way and to normalize and destigmatize issues regarding sexuality and sexual health.
I have experience working with sex and sexuality concerns, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and more through talk, play, and art therapy.
Life is ever changing. Who we are and how we view ourselves is fluid and evolves as we grow and learn. Our environment, life circumstances, and relationships further influence our perspective. Change can be hard and it is normal to need support and affirmation as you navigate the stressors in your life. It is my goal to to nurture your journey of growth and healing. Additionally, concerns about your sexuality and sexual health can be overwhelming. I hope to help you navigate through any insecurities in a sex positive, non shaming way and to normalize and destigmatize issues regarding sexuality and sexual health.
(205) 378-6827 View (205) 378-6827
Photo of Kristin L Graham, Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Kristin L Graham
Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I bring a unique and inclusive perspective to my practice, one that is deeply rooted in my own identity as a queer individual and my commitment to being welcoming to individuals who are on the Gender, Sex and Relationship Diversity (GSRD) spectrum. I am knowledgeable in kink dynamics, queer relationship issues, and consensual nonmonogamy practices. In a world that often misunderstands or stigmatizes individuals on the GSRD spectrum, I am dedicated to providing a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their desires, express themselves authentically, and seek support for any related challenges.
As a therapist, I bring a unique and inclusive perspective to my practice, one that is deeply rooted in my own identity as a queer individual and my commitment to being welcoming to individuals who are on the Gender, Sex and Relationship Diversity (GSRD) spectrum. I am knowledgeable in kink dynamics, queer relationship issues, and consensual nonmonogamy practices. In a world that often misunderstands or stigmatizes individuals on the GSRD spectrum, I am dedicated to providing a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their desires, express themselves authentically, and seek support for any related challenges.
(659) 732-2736 View (659) 732-2736
Photo of Rev. Dr. Tommie Watkins Jr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Birmingham, AL
Rev. Dr. Tommie Watkins Jr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
Given I am black gay male clergy person, I am competent in working with those individuals with needs to address conflicting sexuality and sexual orientation issues-LGBTQIA+ Community Members.
My ideal client is one that perhaps is dealing with feelings of fear, anger, envy, uncertainty, depression, perhaps amplified by strong religious convictions and spiritual uncertainty. They are particularly uncomfortable with being vulnerable often negligent in discussing feelings and issues of religion and spirituality, but will allow a few conversations to explore what their particular and specific issues and beliefs may be, including past traumas and sexual abuse issues. This client would be open to exploring their spirituality (not religion) as a means of developing and improving coping skills and spiritual strategies.
Given I am black gay male clergy person, I am competent in working with those individuals with needs to address conflicting sexuality and sexual orientation issues-LGBTQIA+ Community Members.
My ideal client is one that perhaps is dealing with feelings of fear, anger, envy, uncertainty, depression, perhaps amplified by strong religious convictions and spiritual uncertainty. They are particularly uncomfortable with being vulnerable often negligent in discussing feelings and issues of religion and spirituality, but will allow a few conversations to explore what their particular and specific issues and beliefs may be, including past traumas and sexual abuse issues. This client would be open to exploring their spirituality (not religion) as a means of developing and improving coping skills and spiritual strategies.
(205) 772-8080 View (205) 772-8080
Photo of Hope House Counseling and Education, Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Hope House Counseling and Education
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MDiv, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35213  (Online Only)
Our Certified Sex Addiction Therapists help you use proven methods to restore sexual and relationship integrity, rebuild trust, and cope with betrayal trauma.
Have you just found out that your spouse or significant other has been engaging in sexual behaviors and lying about it? Maybe it was sexting, an emotional affair, pornography, or other sexual behaviors. Whatever it was, it was kept from you and you feel lied to, betrayed, and fooled. Or maybe you are the one engaging in sexual behaviors that you have tried to stop but, no matter how much effort you put into stopping, you return to that same behavior over and over. Maybe you are grieving a relationship loss, trying to figure out how to parent now that things have changed or you just feel stuck in the same old patterns.
Our Certified Sex Addiction Therapists help you use proven methods to restore sexual and relationship integrity, rebuild trust, and cope with betrayal trauma.
Have you just found out that your spouse or significant other has been engaging in sexual behaviors and lying about it? Maybe it was sexting, an emotional affair, pornography, or other sexual behaviors. Whatever it was, it was kept from you and you feel lied to, betrayed, and fooled. Or maybe you are the one engaging in sexual behaviors that you have tried to stop but, no matter how much effort you put into stopping, you return to that same behavior over and over. Maybe you are grieving a relationship loss, trying to figure out how to parent now that things have changed or you just feel stuck in the same old patterns.
(205) 273-2280 View (205) 273-2280
Photo of Bass Assertive Solutions & Support, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Birmingham, AL
Bass Assertive Solutions & Support, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242
As a mental health therapist, I provide a safe and pleasant environment for you to share your life's challenges. I believe in helping you realize your strengths and abilities to overcome these challenges. I assist you with processing and working through your troubles as well as equipping you with the knowledge and tools to combat your obstacles. Working together we will make positive changes in your life. Some of the areas I address are: depression; anxiety; physical, sexual, and emotional abuse; anger management; couple's counseling; sex therapy & concerns; PTSD; and ADHD. Telemental health therapy services are also available.
As a mental health therapist, I provide a safe and pleasant environment for you to share your life's challenges. I believe in helping you realize your strengths and abilities to overcome these challenges. I assist you with processing and working through your troubles as well as equipping you with the knowledge and tools to combat your obstacles. Working together we will make positive changes in your life. Some of the areas I address are: depression; anxiety; physical, sexual, and emotional abuse; anger management; couple's counseling; sex therapy & concerns; PTSD; and ADHD. Telemental health therapy services are also available.
(205) 703-2877 View (205) 703-2877
Photo of Marie Woods, Marriage & Family Therapist in Birmingham, AL
Marie Woods
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT-S , SEP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35216
With training as a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), I am trained in a comprehensive model for treating sex addiction.
My clients may be struggling with a variety of issues commonly including sexually compulsive behavior, relational challenges, unresolved trauma, substance abuse, or codependency. Many of my clients have are engaged in a healing and recovery process from their struggles, but desire a deeper dive into their recovery and understanding of self. Their general goals are to overcome not only the symptoms that brought them to treatment but also what drives those symptoms. Clients seeing me are in need of a therapist who is specifically qualified for their needs & can be up-front and direct while also being compassionate and non-judgmental.
With training as a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), I am trained in a comprehensive model for treating sex addiction.
My clients may be struggling with a variety of issues commonly including sexually compulsive behavior, relational challenges, unresolved trauma, substance abuse, or codependency. Many of my clients have are engaged in a healing and recovery process from their struggles, but desire a deeper dive into their recovery and understanding of self. Their general goals are to overcome not only the symptoms that brought them to treatment but also what drives those symptoms. Clients seeing me are in need of a therapist who is specifically qualified for their needs & can be up-front and direct while also being compassionate and non-judgmental.
(770) 282-4278 View (770) 282-4278
Photo of Caroline Bria, Marriage & Family Therapist in Birmingham, AL
Caroline Bria
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling stuck in some part of your life? Trying to navigate a romantic, peer, or parent-child relationship, life transition, anxiety or depression? Struggling to figure out what's getting in the way sexually, emotionally, or mentally? Does it feel like something is inhibiting life satisfaction, security and connection but hard to figure out what that is? I want to meet you where you are and help you get to where you want to be. I use a collaborative approach to tailor therapeutic techniques to fit your unique needs and personality. My joy and passion in being an MFT stems from the journey of moving through change with you.
Are you feeling stuck in some part of your life? Trying to navigate a romantic, peer, or parent-child relationship, life transition, anxiety or depression? Struggling to figure out what's getting in the way sexually, emotionally, or mentally? Does it feel like something is inhibiting life satisfaction, security and connection but hard to figure out what that is? I want to meet you where you are and help you get to where you want to be. I use a collaborative approach to tailor therapeutic techniques to fit your unique needs and personality. My joy and passion in being an MFT stems from the journey of moving through change with you.
(205) 272-6861 View (205) 272-6861
Photo of Laura Wagstaff, Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Laura Wagstaff
Counselor, ALC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
Are you someone who often wonders if life will always be a struggle? You might find yourself struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, and low self worth wondering if it is even possible for that to change. If you’re sick and tired of being sick and tired, you’re not alone. As a clinician I aim to build a relationship where we can work together to unpack your experiences, understand life patterns, and create healing. I focus on creating space for clients of all identities to meet their goals in order to reach their full potential.
Are you someone who often wonders if life will always be a struggle? You might find yourself struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, and low self worth wondering if it is even possible for that to change. If you’re sick and tired of being sick and tired, you’re not alone. As a clinician I aim to build a relationship where we can work together to unpack your experiences, understand life patterns, and create healing. I focus on creating space for clients of all identities to meet their goals in order to reach their full potential.
(205) 749-7454 View (205) 749-7454
Photo of Brian Bradford, Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Brian Bradford
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35226
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I bring a personable and practical style to my counseling approach. I believe counseling should be approachable and accessible for everyone. I’m thorough, treat clients as individuals, and guide them to their goals by joining them in a collaborative approach to face life’s challenges. I’m a passionate and seasoned human growth and development therapist with over 20 years of experience serving as a coach, consultant, and advisor in a variety of industries. With that experience, I bring a real-world approach to counseling.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I bring a personable and practical style to my counseling approach. I believe counseling should be approachable and accessible for everyone. I’m thorough, treat clients as individuals, and guide them to their goals by joining them in a collaborative approach to face life’s challenges. I’m a passionate and seasoned human growth and development therapist with over 20 years of experience serving as a coach, consultant, and advisor in a variety of industries. With that experience, I bring a real-world approach to counseling.
(205) 990-3674 x709 View (205) 990-3674 x709
Photo of Lifestyle Therapy & Coaching, Marriage & Family Therapist in Birmingham, AL
Lifestyle Therapy & Coaching
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35201  (Online Only)
Having trouble finding happiness in your marriage? With over 25 years of experience, I specialize in assisting couples through challenging situations. My focus is on enhancing women's mental well-being, enabling them to cultivate successful relationships. Count on me to provide honest insights and dedicated efforts to help you achieve a fulfilling and positive marriage. I tackle various issues like trauma and limiting beliefs that pose a threat to the bond between spouses. I also offer support for compulsive problems that could potentially jeopardize your marriage. I've witnessed marriages not only surviving infidelity but thriving.
Having trouble finding happiness in your marriage? With over 25 years of experience, I specialize in assisting couples through challenging situations. My focus is on enhancing women's mental well-being, enabling them to cultivate successful relationships. Count on me to provide honest insights and dedicated efforts to help you achieve a fulfilling and positive marriage. I tackle various issues like trauma and limiting beliefs that pose a threat to the bond between spouses. I also offer support for compulsive problems that could potentially jeopardize your marriage. I've witnessed marriages not only surviving infidelity but thriving.
(256) 485-4769 View (256) 485-4769
Photo of Kathryn Strickland Abs Sex Therapist, Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Kathryn Strickland Abs Sex Therapist
Counselor, MEd, LPC, ABS
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242
Are you and your relationship struggling due to sexual issues. These sensitive subjects can be difficult to talk about and even harder to find the right therapist for. I specialize in helping individuals through sexual issues of all kinds, including but not limited to: ED, Desire discrepancy, pelvic pain, sexual aversion, sexual trauma, low libido, out of control sexual behavior, negative impacts of pornography and technology, medical sexual dysfunction, and more. Don't let sexual problems stop you from having the life and relationships you desire.
Are you and your relationship struggling due to sexual issues. These sensitive subjects can be difficult to talk about and even harder to find the right therapist for. I specialize in helping individuals through sexual issues of all kinds, including but not limited to: ED, Desire discrepancy, pelvic pain, sexual aversion, sexual trauma, low libido, out of control sexual behavior, negative impacts of pornography and technology, medical sexual dysfunction, and more. Don't let sexual problems stop you from having the life and relationships you desire.
(205) 619-1526 View (205) 619-1526
Photo of Erica Wilbanks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Erica Wilbanks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35244
Are you ready for change? Austrian psychiatrist and psychotherapist, Viktor Frankl stated “When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves”. I have built most of my work around studying trauma and the effects it has on a human. Trauma defined is an event or circumstance that is beyond a person's ability to cope properly. Many symptoms like anxiety, depression, dissociation, fatigue, and guilt follow trauma. Trauma is scary and I do not believe we were meant to do life alone. I offer to serve as someone who can collaboratively walk through the trauma with you.
Are you ready for change? Austrian psychiatrist and psychotherapist, Viktor Frankl stated “When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves”. I have built most of my work around studying trauma and the effects it has on a human. Trauma defined is an event or circumstance that is beyond a person's ability to cope properly. Many symptoms like anxiety, depression, dissociation, fatigue, and guilt follow trauma. Trauma is scary and I do not believe we were meant to do life alone. I offer to serve as someone who can collaboratively walk through the trauma with you.
(205) 883-8517 View (205) 883-8517
Photo of Dr. Griena Knight Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Dr. Griena Knight Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACN, EdD, LPC, BCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35208
I strive to enable individuals to realize a happier, healthier, and more successful existence through services that optimizes one's personally defined well being. I provide innovative, responsive, and quality mental health services addressing the obstacles that negatively impact an individual's quality of life such as: Stress and Anxiety; Depression; Relationship Issues; Anger Management; Self-Esteem; Adjustment Issues; Grief and Loss; and Identity Issues. I cultivate a helping relationship that allows the client to define and achieve a healthy lifestyle.
I strive to enable individuals to realize a happier, healthier, and more successful existence through services that optimizes one's personally defined well being. I provide innovative, responsive, and quality mental health services addressing the obstacles that negatively impact an individual's quality of life such as: Stress and Anxiety; Depression; Relationship Issues; Anger Management; Self-Esteem; Adjustment Issues; Grief and Loss; and Identity Issues. I cultivate a helping relationship that allows the client to define and achieve a healthy lifestyle.
(205) 236-6774 View (205) 236-6774
Photo of Garrett Brent Irby, Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Garrett Brent Irby
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, LPC, CSAT, CPTT, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35213
Are you returning to the same behavior over and over despite the consequences? Obsessing over certain behaviors and compulsively acting on them? Maybe a loved one in your life struggling with an addiction? Reaching out for help can feel like the end of the rope. For many, it feels like a free fall. You can overcome all of these struggles. You need a guide. Congratulations for courageously taking this first step. Fearful, confused, think it will never get any better? Want some guidance? Since 2012 Garrett has provided counseling services to people who have deep desires for connection with others and peace with the world.
Are you returning to the same behavior over and over despite the consequences? Obsessing over certain behaviors and compulsively acting on them? Maybe a loved one in your life struggling with an addiction? Reaching out for help can feel like the end of the rope. For many, it feels like a free fall. You can overcome all of these struggles. You need a guide. Congratulations for courageously taking this first step. Fearful, confused, think it will never get any better? Want some guidance? Since 2012 Garrett has provided counseling services to people who have deep desires for connection with others and peace with the world.
(205) 509-2004 View (205) 509-2004
Photo of Ellis Bernstein, Psychologist in Birmingham, AL
Ellis Bernstein
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223  (Online Only)
Good therapy works. However, there are often barriers between you and "good therapy." It's hard to find a therapist that is a match, hard to look at your life with honesty, and hard to work on becoming better. I'm a Psychologist providing therapy to adults and couples. I've worked with a diverse range of clients with all sorts of concerns, taught university courses on counseling, and currently work as a scientist within a digital health company. I know it's hard to find good therapy, but through all of my experiences, I've found one fact that remains consistently clear: good therapy works.
Good therapy works. However, there are often barriers between you and "good therapy." It's hard to find a therapist that is a match, hard to look at your life with honesty, and hard to work on becoming better. I'm a Psychologist providing therapy to adults and couples. I've worked with a diverse range of clients with all sorts of concerns, taught university courses on counseling, and currently work as a scientist within a digital health company. I know it's hard to find good therapy, but through all of my experiences, I've found one fact that remains consistently clear: good therapy works.
(205) 896-2171 View (205) 896-2171

Nearby Sex Therapy Searches for Birmingham

See More Sex Therapy
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.