Sex Therapists in Costa Mesa, CA

Photo of Michelle Kelly, Counselor in Costa Mesa, CA
Michelle Kelly
Counselor, LCMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
I specialize in sex & relationship therapy, EMDR therapy & holistic health.
Your past & your present don't define you. You can heal. You can evolve. You can thrive. Your unique experience matters! Hi, I’m Michelle Kelly, founder of POW Therapy. I’m committed to assisting you in achieving sustained healing, optimal wellness & joyful authenticity within yourself, your relationships & the energy you bring to the world. You deserve to feel safe, comfortable, confident, inspired & free to be you!
I specialize in sex & relationship therapy, EMDR therapy & holistic health.
Your past & your present don't define you. You can heal. You can evolve. You can thrive. Your unique experience matters! Hi, I’m Michelle Kelly, founder of POW Therapy. I’m committed to assisting you in achieving sustained healing, optimal wellness & joyful authenticity within yourself, your relationships & the energy you bring to the world. You deserve to feel safe, comfortable, confident, inspired & free to be you!
(435) 254-4168 View (435) 254-4168
Photo of Ari Shahabaldiny Sex Therapist Emdr, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Ari Shahabaldiny Sex Therapist Emdr
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Whether you are single and tired of dating, married and still feel alone, divorced and despairing, disappointed with your sex life, or generally lost, YOU need to know there is always HOPE.
I help my clients by empowering them to become in charge of their lives. My role is to illuminate the path to your ideal future. I believe YOU are the expert of your life and YOU are the only one who can create your ideal change. We all go through times when life's challenges seem to get the best of us. Problems in life are inevitable, and strong coping skills are tools we need in overcoming such difficult times. WE will find your path and get you back on track.
Whether you are single and tired of dating, married and still feel alone, divorced and despairing, disappointed with your sex life, or generally lost, YOU need to know there is always HOPE.
I help my clients by empowering them to become in charge of their lives. My role is to illuminate the path to your ideal future. I believe YOU are the expert of your life and YOU are the only one who can create your ideal change. We all go through times when life's challenges seem to get the best of us. Problems in life are inevitable, and strong coping skills are tools we need in overcoming such difficult times. WE will find your path and get you back on track.
(949) 829-4841 View (949) 829-4841
Photo of Pillow Talk Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Pillow Talk Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, she/her
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
I have training and experience in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Couples and Sex Therapy through American Association of Couples and Sex Therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! Schedule free 15 min consultation at www.pillowtalktherapy.com to start! Couples/Relationship Therapy (LGBTQIA+ and poly/kink affirming), Sex Therapy (physical/emotional issues affecting sexual relationship), Trauma (IFS); PRIVATE PAY ONLY (can provide superbill but cannot guarantee insurance payment). Currently offering telehealth only for clients within California and Florida.
I have training and experience in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Couples and Sex Therapy through American Association of Couples and Sex Therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! Schedule free 15 min consultation at www.pillowtalktherapy.com to start! Couples/Relationship Therapy (LGBTQIA+ and poly/kink affirming), Sex Therapy (physical/emotional issues affecting sexual relationship), Trauma (IFS); PRIVATE PAY ONLY (can provide superbill but cannot guarantee insurance payment). Currently offering telehealth only for clients within California and Florida.
(714) 989-7369 View (714) 989-7369
Photo of Lee R. Blackwell, Psychologist in Costa Mesa, CA
Lee R. Blackwell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
My training as a sex therapist and then being Co-Director of the UCLA Human Sexuality Clinic for 10 years provides me with a solid background to work with sexual dysfunction, sexual addiction/compulsion, or sexual trauma in a caring and direct way.
I work mainly with adults and late adolescents, individually, in couples and in groups. The areas I specialize in are sexual issues (individuals or couples), adults molested as children, emotional intimacy, communication, anxiety, depression, self-awareness, and deep and lasting character change. In my 45 years of practicing counseling and psychotherapy I've worked with a wide variety of people of different ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, religions, and those with physical challenges. I find it immensely rewarding to work with people who are actively seeking to resolve problems through increased self-awareness.
My training as a sex therapist and then being Co-Director of the UCLA Human Sexuality Clinic for 10 years provides me with a solid background to work with sexual dysfunction, sexual addiction/compulsion, or sexual trauma in a caring and direct way.
I work mainly with adults and late adolescents, individually, in couples and in groups. The areas I specialize in are sexual issues (individuals or couples), adults molested as children, emotional intimacy, communication, anxiety, depression, self-awareness, and deep and lasting character change. In my 45 years of practicing counseling and psychotherapy I've worked with a wide variety of people of different ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, religions, and those with physical challenges. I find it immensely rewarding to work with people who are actively seeking to resolve problems through increased self-awareness.
(714) 584-4901 View (714) 584-4901
Photo of Sara Asadifar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Sara Asadifar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
I also specialize in sex therapy where I work with couples experiencing arousal differences and difficulty talking about sex.
Do feelings always feel intense and raw? Do these feelings take over and get in the way of your relationship or closeness with others? These are patterns that scream a need to survive and to protect. I am here to help you appreciate the way your body has tried to keep you safe for years while also learning how and why it shows up, whether it be in or out of the bedroom. We need to feel heard and seen in our pain and that is what I value providing in our sessions. Together, we will identify your needs and goals in order to feel balanced and connected to others.
I also specialize in sex therapy where I work with couples experiencing arousal differences and difficulty talking about sex.
Do feelings always feel intense and raw? Do these feelings take over and get in the way of your relationship or closeness with others? These are patterns that scream a need to survive and to protect. I am here to help you appreciate the way your body has tried to keep you safe for years while also learning how and why it shows up, whether it be in or out of the bedroom. We need to feel heard and seen in our pain and that is what I value providing in our sessions. Together, we will identify your needs and goals in order to feel balanced and connected to others.
(714) 766-0227 View (714) 766-0227
Photo of The Nest Counseling Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
The Nest Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Trained in LGBTQ and Allied Care, we are a Group Practice that is diverse in identity, age and backgrounds. We work with Couples, Gay Men, Lesbian Women, Trans and Non Binary folx, Neurodivergent, Sex Workers, Poly and ENM, Furries and Religious Trauma. We provide a safe and affirming environment so you can heal.
Trained in LGBTQ and Allied Care, we are a Group Practice that is diverse in identity, age and backgrounds. We work with Couples, Gay Men, Lesbian Women, Trans and Non Binary folx, Neurodivergent, Sex Workers, Poly and ENM, Furries and Religious Trauma. We provide a safe and affirming environment so you can heal.
(657) 530-5270 View (657) 530-5270
Photo of Kai Lewis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Kai Lewis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
My speciality is in the transgender and gender expansive/nonconforming communities, sexuality and gender exploration, ethical nonmonogamy, and beyond.
Perhaps you are brand new to therapy, or returning for better results. Maybe you are looking for a therapist that relates to the LGBTQ+ identities/experiences you have, and how those may affect other areas of your life. You're looking for a space to be authentic and explore complex parts of who you are in a safe, affirming space. You might be experiencing anxiety, depression, confusion, or other barriers to your well-being. My priority is inviting you to share who you are so we can create positive outcomes. I combine evidence-based practices with real-world application, placing your experiences at the forefront of therapy.
My speciality is in the transgender and gender expansive/nonconforming communities, sexuality and gender exploration, ethical nonmonogamy, and beyond.
Perhaps you are brand new to therapy, or returning for better results. Maybe you are looking for a therapist that relates to the LGBTQ+ identities/experiences you have, and how those may affect other areas of your life. You're looking for a space to be authentic and explore complex parts of who you are in a safe, affirming space. You might be experiencing anxiety, depression, confusion, or other barriers to your well-being. My priority is inviting you to share who you are so we can create positive outcomes. I combine evidence-based practices with real-world application, placing your experiences at the forefront of therapy.
(657) 214-4460 View (657) 214-4460
Photo of David Shepard, Psychologist in Costa Mesa, CA
David Shepard
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
My name is Dr. David Shepard, and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist based in California, and I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I am also a Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional, and a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, anger issues, relationship challenges, intimacy/sexual health, life transitions, sexuality/LGBTQ+, and identity/self-esteem issues. My therapeutic approach is integrative, person-centered, multicultural focused, collaborative, and strength based.
My name is Dr. David Shepard, and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist based in California, and I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I am also a Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional, and a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, anger issues, relationship challenges, intimacy/sexual health, life transitions, sexuality/LGBTQ+, and identity/self-esteem issues. My therapeutic approach is integrative, person-centered, multicultural focused, collaborative, and strength based.
(657) 256-4482 View (657) 256-4482
Photo of Kristen Nassif, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Kristen Nassif
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
I am also sex work and LGBTQ aligned and have vast experience with clients in both areas.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, or relationship issues? Do you want to have better relationships with your families and loved ones? Is your child struggling with school/family related issues such as test anxiety, bullying or stress from divorce? I can help! I believe that it's often necessary to challenge my clients and work within their pasts, to assist them in finding the root of their issues and not simply masking the symptoms. I develop highly personalized coping skills with my clients and create a warm, caring environment to assist them in engaging, in the sometimes uncomfortable processes of therapy.
I am also sex work and LGBTQ aligned and have vast experience with clients in both areas.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, or relationship issues? Do you want to have better relationships with your families and loved ones? Is your child struggling with school/family related issues such as test anxiety, bullying or stress from divorce? I can help! I believe that it's often necessary to challenge my clients and work within their pasts, to assist them in finding the root of their issues and not simply masking the symptoms. I develop highly personalized coping skills with my clients and create a warm, caring environment to assist them in engaging, in the sometimes uncomfortable processes of therapy.
(949) 267-3105 View (949) 267-3105
Photo of Jeremy Rhoades, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Jeremy Rhoades
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
I have a long history of treating clients with PTSD, grief and loss, anxiety and existential questions, relational issues and self-esteem, sexuality, spiritual seeking, relationship with alcohol and other substances, and living with HIV.
Hi there, I'm Jeremy! I am a Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, with special training in Harm Reduction, trauma-informed care, and nondual awareness practice. I have an MA in Transpersonal Counseling Psychology (JFK University) including courses in Dream Studies and Consciousness Studies, and intensive ongoing training in addressing and healing from trauma.
I have a long history of treating clients with PTSD, grief and loss, anxiety and existential questions, relational issues and self-esteem, sexuality, spiritual seeking, relationship with alcohol and other substances, and living with HIV.
Hi there, I'm Jeremy! I am a Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, with special training in Harm Reduction, trauma-informed care, and nondual awareness practice. I have an MA in Transpersonal Counseling Psychology (JFK University) including courses in Dream Studies and Consciousness Studies, and intensive ongoing training in addressing and healing from trauma.
(323) 784-1358 View (323) 784-1358
Photo of Kathlyn P Perez-Stable, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Costa Mesa, CA
Kathlyn P Perez-Stable
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
If you are looking for authentic support for sexuality (kink/fetish, leather) relationship support (non-traditional, vanilla/non-vanilla) divorce, LGBTQIA+ relationships, recovery from substance use disorder, manage anxiety, treat depression, experience deeper personal growth, increase self-esteem, or simply wanting to explore who you are and how you work, I'm here to provide you with the support you are seeking. I provide support to individuals and couples to help create a more vibrant, satisfying life experience.
If you are looking for authentic support for sexuality (kink/fetish, leather) relationship support (non-traditional, vanilla/non-vanilla) divorce, LGBTQIA+ relationships, recovery from substance use disorder, manage anxiety, treat depression, experience deeper personal growth, increase self-esteem, or simply wanting to explore who you are and how you work, I'm here to provide you with the support you are seeking. I provide support to individuals and couples to help create a more vibrant, satisfying life experience.
(951) 319-2128 View (951) 319-2128
Photo of Alison Lynn Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Alison Lynn Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Frustrated with your: relationship? sex life? child? I am trained in 2nd level, Gottman Method, a specialty that started with couples. John Gottman, the author of, "7 Principles of Marriage," is known for predicting divorce with 90% accuracy, has been influential over my career. The Gottman Method has transformed my practice to focusing on couples, parenting, and children. If you're looking for guidance through a challenging situation with your children, partner or anyone else, I look forward to working with you to accomplish your goals.
Frustrated with your: relationship? sex life? child? I am trained in 2nd level, Gottman Method, a specialty that started with couples. John Gottman, the author of, "7 Principles of Marriage," is known for predicting divorce with 90% accuracy, has been influential over my career. The Gottman Method has transformed my practice to focusing on couples, parenting, and children. If you're looking for guidance through a challenging situation with your children, partner or anyone else, I look forward to working with you to accomplish your goals.
(714) 654-1570 View (714) 654-1570
Photo of Dr. Heather Clinkenbeard, Psychologist in Costa Mesa, CA
Dr. Heather Clinkenbeard
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Clinkenbeard completed her residency at Pine Grove Behavioral Health and Addiction Services in Hattiesburg, Mississippi - one of the nation’s leading treatment centers for sex addiction and professionals in treatment facing addiction issues/problems at work.
Dr. Clinkenbeard is committed to helping those who have been impacted by addiction, especially sexual addiction, understand how they got to this place and find a path to growth and healing. She knows that many partners/spouses facing betrayal from infidelity or sexual addiction experiences unique pain and she desires to provide them a safe place to process their story and help them find hope. Dr. Clinkenbeard is here to help those struggling with general sexual health issues, life transitions, spirituality, grief, and impaired professionals.
Clinkenbeard completed her residency at Pine Grove Behavioral Health and Addiction Services in Hattiesburg, Mississippi - one of the nation’s leading treatment centers for sex addiction and professionals in treatment facing addiction issues/problems at work.
Dr. Clinkenbeard is committed to helping those who have been impacted by addiction, especially sexual addiction, understand how they got to this place and find a path to growth and healing. She knows that many partners/spouses facing betrayal from infidelity or sexual addiction experiences unique pain and she desires to provide them a safe place to process their story and help them find hope. Dr. Clinkenbeard is here to help those struggling with general sexual health issues, life transitions, spirituality, grief, and impaired professionals.
(714) 410-6742 View (714) 410-6742
Photo of Adriana Kalajian, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Costa Mesa, CA
Adriana Kalajian
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
I work with individuals who feel like they're constantly swimming against the tide, especially those within the neurodiverse and LGBTQIA+ communities. If you're wrestling with the feeling of being out of sync in a world that seems to demand conformity, or if the societal 'norms' seem more like hurdles than pathways, therapy can be a beacon. This is your arena to discover and embrace your unique self, to find strategies that align with your true identity, and to carve out a life that feels like yours.
I work with individuals who feel like they're constantly swimming against the tide, especially those within the neurodiverse and LGBTQIA+ communities. If you're wrestling with the feeling of being out of sync in a world that seems to demand conformity, or if the societal 'norms' seem more like hurdles than pathways, therapy can be a beacon. This is your arena to discover and embrace your unique self, to find strategies that align with your true identity, and to carve out a life that feels like yours.
(949) 776-5461 View (949) 776-5461
Photo of Olivia Rose Powanda, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Olivia Rose Powanda
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Your thoughts and feelings are valid, but they do not define you! We are often our biggest critics, which can unfairly create roadblocks in our journey. I am passionate about helping clients harness their potential so they can live a fulfilling life. Whether you are a teen struggling with social life, a couple suffering from lack of connection or intimacy, an individual who wants to connect with their authentic self, parents, etc., I am here to help you navigate through the life you wanna change, improve or create.
Your thoughts and feelings are valid, but they do not define you! We are often our biggest critics, which can unfairly create roadblocks in our journey. I am passionate about helping clients harness their potential so they can live a fulfilling life. Whether you are a teen struggling with social life, a couple suffering from lack of connection or intimacy, an individual who wants to connect with their authentic self, parents, etc., I am here to help you navigate through the life you wanna change, improve or create.
(714) 475-7399 View (714) 475-7399
Photo of Elizabeth Reed, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Elizabeth Reed
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Are you tired of keeping secrets or making excuses for your addicted spouse or family member? Does it feel like other people's feelings and moods are your responsibility? Are you struggling with feelings of guilt when you try to stand up for yourself? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of the above questions, then you have made the right choice to seek therapy. I'm confident that together, we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome these challenges.
Are you tired of keeping secrets or making excuses for your addicted spouse or family member? Does it feel like other people's feelings and moods are your responsibility? Are you struggling with feelings of guilt when you try to stand up for yourself? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of the above questions, then you have made the right choice to seek therapy. I'm confident that together, we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome these challenges.
(949) 868-6627 View (949) 868-6627
Photo of Sara Wolfrom, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Costa Mesa, CA
Sara Wolfrom
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Hello and thank you for taking the time to check out my profile! My approach to therapy is non-pathologizing and client centered meaning I believe my clients are the experts of their own story. I work to collaborate with my clients on ways to approach their issues from a place of empathy and compassion. I place emphasis on my clients strengths and work to uncover areas in which my clients may not be able to see their skills being used.
Hello and thank you for taking the time to check out my profile! My approach to therapy is non-pathologizing and client centered meaning I believe my clients are the experts of their own story. I work to collaborate with my clients on ways to approach their issues from a place of empathy and compassion. I place emphasis on my clients strengths and work to uncover areas in which my clients may not be able to see their skills being used.
(657) 385-8446 View (657) 385-8446
Photo of Valene Gresham, Psychologist in Costa Mesa, CA
Valene Gresham
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
My name is Dr. Valene Gresham, and I am a psychologist. I have a doctorate degree in clinical and forensic psychology. I also have a master's degree in marriage and family therapy. I specialize in individual and couples therapy for clients ages 18 and up. I specialize in anxiety and depression management, self-esteem and confidence building, life coaching, relationship issues, major life transitions, couples therapy, student support, and trauma in all ages. Also, I have several years of experience working with specialized groups such as police officers and government officials.
My name is Dr. Valene Gresham, and I am a psychologist. I have a doctorate degree in clinical and forensic psychology. I also have a master's degree in marriage and family therapy. I specialize in individual and couples therapy for clients ages 18 and up. I specialize in anxiety and depression management, self-esteem and confidence building, life coaching, relationship issues, major life transitions, couples therapy, student support, and trauma in all ages. Also, I have several years of experience working with specialized groups such as police officers and government officials.
(949) 577-7453 View (949) 577-7453
Photo of Sobia Saleem Psychotherapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Sobia Saleem Psychotherapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! Are you a trans, non-binary, or poly person looking for a therapist who understands and reflects your identity? Are you a newly diagnosed neurodivergent or neuroqueer adult? Are you chronically ill and tired of educating your therapists about your medical conditions? If so, you're in the right place! I want to give you the care you deserve. I want to work with you on the unique challenges you might be facing, like navigating your transitioning experience, exploring sexual dynamics with partner(s), dealing with a new diagnosis, and needing an HRT or surgery letter. Therapy should cater to you and your needs.
Accepting New Clients! Are you a trans, non-binary, or poly person looking for a therapist who understands and reflects your identity? Are you a newly diagnosed neurodivergent or neuroqueer adult? Are you chronically ill and tired of educating your therapists about your medical conditions? If so, you're in the right place! I want to give you the care you deserve. I want to work with you on the unique challenges you might be facing, like navigating your transitioning experience, exploring sexual dynamics with partner(s), dealing with a new diagnosis, and needing an HRT or surgery letter. Therapy should cater to you and your needs.
(657) 286-7337 View (657) 286-7337
Photo of Costa Mesa Psychology, Psychologist in Costa Mesa, CA
Costa Mesa Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
(657) 216-7829 View (657) 216-7829
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.