Sex Therapists in Signal Hill, CA
Hello and welcome! I have been in the psychology field seeing everyone and addressing almost everything! .Along the way I developed an expertise in Child Parent Psychotherapy and Rational Behavior Therapy. I also have extensive training in Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Adolescence and Postpartum Depression. I am currently a Mental Health Consultant for the School District. I also spent 15 years working at an all male prison as a bilingual therapist. Please feel free to contact me and make a significant step in understanding yourself and improving your life!
Hello and welcome! I have been in the psychology field seeing everyone and addressing almost everything! .Along the way I developed an expertise in Child Parent Psychotherapy and Rational Behavior Therapy. I also have extensive training in Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Adolescence and Postpartum Depression. I am currently a Mental Health Consultant for the School District. I also spent 15 years working at an all male prison as a bilingual therapist. Please feel free to contact me and make a significant step in understanding yourself and improving your life!
My name is Jonathan Gomez LMFT 135094. My Specialty areas include Depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, childhood trauma and past trauma, grief and loss, parenting issues, anger management and life transitions. My therapy approaches are mainly Gestalt although I was also trained in psychodynamic and trauma informed care. I Work with adults and teenagers. Bilingual: Spanish. I typically work with Adults and teenagers. I love seeing the change in the client. Once change happens, it is like a whirlwind. That drives me to continue to do this work.
My name is Jonathan Gomez LMFT 135094. My Specialty areas include Depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, childhood trauma and past trauma, grief and loss, parenting issues, anger management and life transitions. My therapy approaches are mainly Gestalt although I was also trained in psychodynamic and trauma informed care. I Work with adults and teenagers. Bilingual: Spanish. I typically work with Adults and teenagers. I love seeing the change in the client. Once change happens, it is like a whirlwind. That drives me to continue to do this work.
More Therapists Nearby
Crystal Harper
Pastoral Counselor, DMinCC, LCPC, CTSS, PhD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802 (Online Only)
I specialize in Crisis and Abuse, Sex Therapy, Trauma, Anxiety, and Depression.
Are you struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, or other distressing emotions? Do you desire release from unsuccessful patterns of behavior in relationships? If you want to experience more peace and well-being, I can effectively and compassionately help you navigate life-altering crisis and heal from childhood or adult traumatic events. With over 30 years of counseling experience, I have worked in: Suicide Prevention, Physical/ Sexual Abuse, Trauma, Addiction (Drug Court), Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Violence, PTSD. I have both a strong clinical and faith-based educational background and take a holistic approach to counseling.
I specialize in Crisis and Abuse, Sex Therapy, Trauma, Anxiety, and Depression.
Are you struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, or other distressing emotions? Do you desire release from unsuccessful patterns of behavior in relationships? If you want to experience more peace and well-being, I can effectively and compassionately help you navigate life-altering crisis and heal from childhood or adult traumatic events. With over 30 years of counseling experience, I have worked in: Suicide Prevention, Physical/ Sexual Abuse, Trauma, Addiction (Drug Court), Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Violence, PTSD. I have both a strong clinical and faith-based educational background and take a holistic approach to counseling.
Dr. Christy Cosper
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CSAT-S, CPTT-S
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
Do you worry your relationship is falling apart or find yourself in an unsatisfying situation? Has the initial excitement of your relationship faded, leaving you feeling disconnected? Is your sex life not what it used to be? Have you noticed red flags but not sure what do do? Whether you're facing communication problems, intimacy issues, or lingering conflicts, Do you feel you might want to end a relationship and feel guilty doing so? It's challenging to decide on whether to stay or leave a relationships. When children or finances are involved, you may find yourself feeling trapped and unsure of how to move forward.
Do you worry your relationship is falling apart or find yourself in an unsatisfying situation? Has the initial excitement of your relationship faded, leaving you feeling disconnected? Is your sex life not what it used to be? Have you noticed red flags but not sure what do do? Whether you're facing communication problems, intimacy issues, or lingering conflicts, Do you feel you might want to end a relationship and feel guilty doing so? It's challenging to decide on whether to stay or leave a relationships. When children or finances are involved, you may find yourself feeling trapped and unsure of how to move forward.
Liz Dubé
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803
Common challenges treated: Low Desire, Sexless or Awkward Sexual relationships, Early Ejaculation, Erectile Difficulties, Painful Sex, Sexual Inhibitions, Erotic conflicts or Incompatible Fantasies.
Would you like to feel sexually empowered to have the sex life you've always wanted... to experience greater sexual awareness and sexual satisfaction in your relationships? I want to help you get beyond sex-related fears, anxiety, guilt, shame, obsessive behaviors, or past traumas that may be impacting your relationships and intimacy. In my sex therapy practice we will work on exploring and processing your struggles, gaining the strength to overcome sex and intimacy issues, and more effective ways for communicating to ultimately create greater satisfaction in your life.
Common challenges treated: Low Desire, Sexless or Awkward Sexual relationships, Early Ejaculation, Erectile Difficulties, Painful Sex, Sexual Inhibitions, Erotic conflicts or Incompatible Fantasies.
Would you like to feel sexually empowered to have the sex life you've always wanted... to experience greater sexual awareness and sexual satisfaction in your relationships? I want to help you get beyond sex-related fears, anxiety, guilt, shame, obsessive behaviors, or past traumas that may be impacting your relationships and intimacy. In my sex therapy practice we will work on exploring and processing your struggles, gaining the strength to overcome sex and intimacy issues, and more effective ways for communicating to ultimately create greater satisfaction in your life.
Christene Lozano (Certified Sex Therapist)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CST, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90804 (Online Only)
I integrate a unique blend of expertise working as a Certified Sex Therapist, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist.
If you are struggling with sexual concerns, you have come to the right place. Some sexual concerns may include: low/high sexual desire, desire discrepancy, a sexless relationship, sexual difficulties (e.g. painful sex, early/delayed ejaculation), sexual trauma, rebuilding emotional and sexual intimacy, and unhealthy relationship patterns. Or perhaps you are struggling with compulsive sexual behaviors. You have realized that your sexual thoughts and behaviors are getting out of control, or you have discovered that your partner is compulsively using sex or porn. You are feeling understandably betrayed, hurt, angry, and overwhelmed.
I integrate a unique blend of expertise working as a Certified Sex Therapist, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist.
If you are struggling with sexual concerns, you have come to the right place. Some sexual concerns may include: low/high sexual desire, desire discrepancy, a sexless relationship, sexual difficulties (e.g. painful sex, early/delayed ejaculation), sexual trauma, rebuilding emotional and sexual intimacy, and unhealthy relationship patterns. Or perhaps you are struggling with compulsive sexual behaviors. You have realized that your sexual thoughts and behaviors are getting out of control, or you have discovered that your partner is compulsively using sex or porn. You are feeling understandably betrayed, hurt, angry, and overwhelmed.
Kristen Crowe - Open Space Therapy Collective
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90804
Healthy relationships, sexuality, body image, emotional regulation, and creative expression are possible for you.
You deserve to feel good in your body. You deserve relationships that contribute to your well-being- not detract from it. You deserve to enjoy healthy expressions of your sexuality. But due to societal pressures and less-than-helpful toxic norms and legacies, these are areas where many people struggle. As a sex-positive, anti-racist, queer & trans-knowledgeable therapist, I’m here to provide non-judgemental support. In therapy, you’ll learn gentle tools to help you love and accept your body, manage your stress, elevate your mood, and improve your relationships.
Healthy relationships, sexuality, body image, emotional regulation, and creative expression are possible for you.
You deserve to feel good in your body. You deserve relationships that contribute to your well-being- not detract from it. You deserve to enjoy healthy expressions of your sexuality. But due to societal pressures and less-than-helpful toxic norms and legacies, these are areas where many people struggle. As a sex-positive, anti-racist, queer & trans-knowledgeable therapist, I’m here to provide non-judgemental support. In therapy, you’ll learn gentle tools to help you love and accept your body, manage your stress, elevate your mood, and improve your relationships.
I use a strength-based approach infusing cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness techniques to help individuals overcome obstacles, address issues, and improve quality of sex, intimacy and relationships.
I provide an expertise in psychology, sexuality, relationships, couples counseling, and gender issues. Treatment for both couples and individuals. 15 minute sex-therapy consultations available now. There is no shame in your thoughts or sexuality, so remove the stigmas now! Correct issues like differing libidos within a couple, sexual dysfunction for both men and women, and relationship/intimacy issues (single or coupled). I am confident your problems can be resolved, in less time than you think!
I use a strength-based approach infusing cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness techniques to help individuals overcome obstacles, address issues, and improve quality of sex, intimacy and relationships.
I provide an expertise in psychology, sexuality, relationships, couples counseling, and gender issues. Treatment for both couples and individuals. 15 minute sex-therapy consultations available now. There is no shame in your thoughts or sexuality, so remove the stigmas now! Correct issues like differing libidos within a couple, sexual dysfunction for both men and women, and relationship/intimacy issues (single or coupled). I am confident your problems can be resolved, in less time than you think!
Maya Attia, LMFT 139693, is a sex-positive, LGBTQ+ affirming, polyamory, kink, and BDSM-friendly therapist. She offers space to express, explore, and learn about your whole self to find ease and greater satisfaction in life. My approach is humanistic and tender. I facilitate conversations that inspire insight and change. I enjoy using the practical tools from cognitive behavioral therapy, ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy), and other modalities, but at my core, I am relational.
Maya Attia, LMFT 139693, is a sex-positive, LGBTQ+ affirming, polyamory, kink, and BDSM-friendly therapist. She offers space to express, explore, and learn about your whole self to find ease and greater satisfaction in life. My approach is humanistic and tender. I facilitate conversations that inspire insight and change. I enjoy using the practical tools from cognitive behavioral therapy, ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy), and other modalities, but at my core, I am relational.
Lauren Abasheva
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LMHC, LPCC, CST
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802 (Online Only)
Do you ever feel like you have to monitor, pull back, and even hide yourself from others?. From friends, family, acquaintances, even from yourself? Do you tend to put your needs and wants at the bottom of the list?. Are you ready to commit to you?. Together we will work side by side to help strengthen your confidence, awareness, insight, healing, and make progress within yourself. As a Certified Sex therapist, Kink knowledgeable, Gender affirming, and Trauma therapist I understand that we are all different, and provide a laid back atmosphere.
Do you ever feel like you have to monitor, pull back, and even hide yourself from others?. From friends, family, acquaintances, even from yourself? Do you tend to put your needs and wants at the bottom of the list?. Are you ready to commit to you?. Together we will work side by side to help strengthen your confidence, awareness, insight, healing, and make progress within yourself. As a Certified Sex therapist, Kink knowledgeable, Gender affirming, and Trauma therapist I understand that we are all different, and provide a laid back atmosphere.
Erin Steele
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815 (Online Only)
I work with clients from all walks in life: Individuals in recovery, people that travel with depression and anxiety, LGBTQ+ community, folks that experience job stress, sex issues, grief, and couples that face a communication mismatch and mistrust.
Hey there. I’m Erin, and I’m glad you’re here. I offer online therapy sessions to adults and couples in California. To begin with, I’m wondering if you’re feeling stuck in life? Fearful of making any changes? Not sure what’s happening in the world and where you fit in? Experiencing job stress? Or grief from a significant loss? Relationship challenges or a rupture? As a result, anxiety and depression might be creeping into your experience and exacerbating feelings of stuck-ness, hopelessness, and overwhelm. I get it. Heads up, I do not take insurance, but I can provide a superbill for possible reimbursement under your insurance plan.
I work with clients from all walks in life: Individuals in recovery, people that travel with depression and anxiety, LGBTQ+ community, folks that experience job stress, sex issues, grief, and couples that face a communication mismatch and mistrust.
Hey there. I’m Erin, and I’m glad you’re here. I offer online therapy sessions to adults and couples in California. To begin with, I’m wondering if you’re feeling stuck in life? Fearful of making any changes? Not sure what’s happening in the world and where you fit in? Experiencing job stress? Or grief from a significant loss? Relationship challenges or a rupture? As a result, anxiety and depression might be creeping into your experience and exacerbating feelings of stuck-ness, hopelessness, and overwhelm. I get it. Heads up, I do not take insurance, but I can provide a superbill for possible reimbursement under your insurance plan.
Joshua M Medina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803
Welcome! Life has significantly changed for everyone in this post-COVID era; where do we go from here? My goal is to team up with you- we will identify what you’d like to work on and together, tackle those challenges head-on. I’m here to help you with anything from relationships, work/family stress, sexuality, gender identity, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, panic disorder, life adjustments, or other health bumps in the road. I work with all adults, specializing in LGBTQI issues. I am recently certified in EMDR - basic training.
Welcome! Life has significantly changed for everyone in this post-COVID era; where do we go from here? My goal is to team up with you- we will identify what you’d like to work on and together, tackle those challenges head-on. I’m here to help you with anything from relationships, work/family stress, sexuality, gender identity, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, panic disorder, life adjustments, or other health bumps in the road. I work with all adults, specializing in LGBTQI issues. I am recently certified in EMDR - basic training.
Krystal Faust
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, ASAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90815 (Online Only)
I am experienced in the Minwalla Trauma Informed / Partner Trauma model and an Associate Sex Addiction Therapist (ASAT) skilled in the Carnes Model.
I have extensive experience in treating depression, anxiety, gender issues, and challenges related to compulsive sexual behavior and partner betrayal trauma. As a therapist informed by the Carnes and Minwalla approaches, I specialize in providing partner-sensitive support to individuals healing from trauma and abuse. My goal is to assist clients in navigating change, life transitions, and the various adjustments we encounter as we age and evolve in our understanding of ourselves, our gender, sexuality, and relationships. I offer knowledgeable and compassionate support to the LGBTQ+, kink, and alternative lifestyle communities.
I am experienced in the Minwalla Trauma Informed / Partner Trauma model and an Associate Sex Addiction Therapist (ASAT) skilled in the Carnes Model.
I have extensive experience in treating depression, anxiety, gender issues, and challenges related to compulsive sexual behavior and partner betrayal trauma. As a therapist informed by the Carnes and Minwalla approaches, I specialize in providing partner-sensitive support to individuals healing from trauma and abuse. My goal is to assist clients in navigating change, life transitions, and the various adjustments we encounter as we age and evolve in our understanding of ourselves, our gender, sexuality, and relationships. I offer knowledgeable and compassionate support to the LGBTQ+, kink, and alternative lifestyle communities.
I use a psychodynamc, integrative approach and specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction and sexuality.
My clients are motivated for change and are seeking effective and long lasting results. If you have tried other approaches or have been discouraged by stagnation, I encourage you to reach out and connect with me. I use a psychodynamic and integrative approach to treatment and recovery. I am a Licensed Clincial Psychologist in Los Angeles/Long Beach. I specialize in treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety and addiction. I work with couples and individuals and look forward to work with you. LGBT+, Diversity, Spirituality, Culture, Holistic and Native Healing
I use a psychodynamc, integrative approach and specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction and sexuality.
My clients are motivated for change and are seeking effective and long lasting results. If you have tried other approaches or have been discouraged by stagnation, I encourage you to reach out and connect with me. I use a psychodynamic and integrative approach to treatment and recovery. I am a Licensed Clincial Psychologist in Los Angeles/Long Beach. I specialize in treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety and addiction. I work with couples and individuals and look forward to work with you. LGBT+, Diversity, Spirituality, Culture, Holistic and Native Healing
Marissa Cotter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90814
I am committed to anti-racist, relational, feminist, pro-LGBT, anti-oppression, sex-positive frameworks.
I provide relational somatic therapy for adults, kids & teens. Therapy with me is integrative, including woven layers of modalities designed with your specific needs in mind. Our work is a collaboration with your mind, body, and soul. Non-judgement. Warmth. Active conversations and appropriate humor. Integrative therapy works successfully to treat mental health issues, emotional distress, and trauma triggers, and is great for kids/teens through art-therapy, body-awareness, and non-directive play. Psychotherapy, to me, is personal, political, & social. It takes courage, strength, and hope to live into who you really are.
I am committed to anti-racist, relational, feminist, pro-LGBT, anti-oppression, sex-positive frameworks.
I provide relational somatic therapy for adults, kids & teens. Therapy with me is integrative, including woven layers of modalities designed with your specific needs in mind. Our work is a collaboration with your mind, body, and soul. Non-judgement. Warmth. Active conversations and appropriate humor. Integrative therapy works successfully to treat mental health issues, emotional distress, and trauma triggers, and is great for kids/teens through art-therapy, body-awareness, and non-directive play. Psychotherapy, to me, is personal, political, & social. It takes courage, strength, and hope to live into who you really are.
Angie Gunn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST, CSTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90802 (Online Only)
When was the last time you felt deep pleasure, connection or acceptance within yourself or a relationship? Therapy works when you find someone who gets you. As one of only 10 AASECT certified sex therapists in Oregon, I'm training a team to provide inclusive sex positive treatment for individuals, couples, groups and LGBTQIPA+ folks. We focus on the treatment of trauma, sexuality challenges (arousal, performance, desire mismatch, healing abuse, pain), gender concerns including resources during the gender affirmation process and exploration of alternative sexualities or relationship configurations including non-monogamy and kink.
When was the last time you felt deep pleasure, connection or acceptance within yourself or a relationship? Therapy works when you find someone who gets you. As one of only 10 AASECT certified sex therapists in Oregon, I'm training a team to provide inclusive sex positive treatment for individuals, couples, groups and LGBTQIPA+ folks. We focus on the treatment of trauma, sexuality challenges (arousal, performance, desire mismatch, healing abuse, pain), gender concerns including resources during the gender affirmation process and exploration of alternative sexualities or relationship configurations including non-monogamy and kink.
Ryan Hill
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803 (Online Only)
I am here to help you relieve stress, pain, and anxiety by guiding you toward a fulfilling relationship. Like many couples, you might struggle with communication or repetitive arguing. You want to experience joy in your relationship, instead of feeling distant from your partner. You want to improve your sex life and have fun. Couples therapy can help you rebuild a lost connection or strengthen your most important relationship. In my office, you can experience a safe space to practice new skills and explore deep relational intimacy. You and your partner can feel wonderful together. You and your partner can thrive.
I am here to help you relieve stress, pain, and anxiety by guiding you toward a fulfilling relationship. Like many couples, you might struggle with communication or repetitive arguing. You want to experience joy in your relationship, instead of feeling distant from your partner. You want to improve your sex life and have fun. Couples therapy can help you rebuild a lost connection or strengthen your most important relationship. In my office, you can experience a safe space to practice new skills and explore deep relational intimacy. You and your partner can feel wonderful together. You and your partner can thrive.
Kevin O'Bryan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90853 (Online Only)
While I have broad experience working with persons from diverse backgrounds and experiences, my areas of specialty are: * Trauma-informed therapy * Individual/couples/poly with relationship difficulties * Sexuality and sexual dysfunction * LGBTQ+ struggles * Discrimination at work or in personal life * Use of mindfulness and somatic therapy for anxiety, anger, and pain.
I wholeheartedly believe that you are your own expert on your life. Through therapy, my goal is to help you identify and work through the challenges and obstacles that may be standing in the way of gratifying relationships, a satisfying work life, and living the life you wish to lead. Your problems are not what define you as a person. I am interested in helping you clearly express your strengths, hopes, and values, which may have become lost amidst life's struggles. I do my best to create a safe and supportive environment with warmth, respect, kindness, curiosity, and a little humor.
While I have broad experience working with persons from diverse backgrounds and experiences, my areas of specialty are: * Trauma-informed therapy * Individual/couples/poly with relationship difficulties * Sexuality and sexual dysfunction * LGBTQ+ struggles * Discrimination at work or in personal life * Use of mindfulness and somatic therapy for anxiety, anger, and pain.
I wholeheartedly believe that you are your own expert on your life. Through therapy, my goal is to help you identify and work through the challenges and obstacles that may be standing in the way of gratifying relationships, a satisfying work life, and living the life you wish to lead. Your problems are not what define you as a person. I am interested in helping you clearly express your strengths, hopes, and values, which may have become lost amidst life's struggles. I do my best to create a safe and supportive environment with warmth, respect, kindness, curiosity, and a little humor.
Jonathan Boland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, MPH
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90814 (Online Only)
I work with all populations, but I specialize in trauma, EMDR, sexuality, and LGBTQ.
Are you struggling to reach your full potential? Do you feel like a prisoner of your past? Have traumatic events taken over your life? You're not alone. Life doesn’t have to be this way. I can guide you through the transformation of becoming who you were meant to be, stepping fully into your joy. I'll give you the courage you need to be your true authentic self, always. I’ve helped hundreds of people just like you radically transform their lives, including those healing from trauma and people who desire a healthier sexual relationship with themselves and with others. I’m passionate about assisting others reach their full potential.
I work with all populations, but I specialize in trauma, EMDR, sexuality, and LGBTQ.
Are you struggling to reach your full potential? Do you feel like a prisoner of your past? Have traumatic events taken over your life? You're not alone. Life doesn’t have to be this way. I can guide you through the transformation of becoming who you were meant to be, stepping fully into your joy. I'll give you the courage you need to be your true authentic self, always. I’ve helped hundreds of people just like you radically transform their lives, including those healing from trauma and people who desire a healthier sexual relationship with themselves and with others. I’m passionate about assisting others reach their full potential.
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 continued growth. 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 continued growth. 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.
See more therapy options for Signal Hill
Nearby Sex Therapy Searches for Signal Hill
- Buena Park
- Cerritos
- Compton
- Lakewood
- Long Beach
- Los Alamitos
- Norwalk
- Rancho Palos Verdes
- San Pedro
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Sex Therapy
Who is sex therapy for?
Sex problems are common in relationships. Many people want a better sex life and want to feel loved and desired by their partner. It is difficult for couples to resolve sexual problems on their own because people often feel ashamed to talk about their sexual desires fearing they are not normal, when in fact a very broad range of preferences and behaviors are normal. A sex therapist can help clarify this and other matters.
Why do people need sex therapy?
Many people do not know how to talk about their erotic needs or their emotional needs, both of which are addressed in sex therapy. Couples often live with sexual difficulties for years before seeking help, and in that time, partners may experience so much disappointment and alienation that they may fear their problems mean they are incompatible. Once people experience disappointment, it is difficult to find resolution without help.
What happens in sex therapy?
People have many misconceptions about what takes place in sex therapy. First, it is a form of talk therapy in which partners discuss their sexual concerns; it does not involve touching or physical exploration of any kind. Sex therapy typically helps couples get comfortable talking to each other about sex so that, in the privacy of their home life, they can openly discuss their sexual desires and make decisions about what they want to do. Couples are typically assigned activities to do at home that build intimacy skills.
What kinds of problems do sex therapists treat?
Very often, partners differ in their degree of sexual desire and struggle over how often to have sex. Or they may have fights about porn use or have difficulty connecting sexually after one partner is unfaithful. Men may have problems with premature ejaculation. Women may find themselves struggling to become aroused or to achieve an orgasm. Sometimes partners feel like they have lost the sense of attraction to their partner. These are all common issues dealt with in sex therapy.