Photo of Annika L. Yokum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Annika L. Yokum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02210  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with clients who are struggling with sex, intimacy, and anxiety specific to relationships.
I am dedicated to helping couples and individuals strengthen their relationships, build security, and navigate the challenges that can arise in intimate partnerships. We are wired to connect with others, yet emotional and physical intimacy can be so tough at times. Often couples are impacted by differences in desire, emotional expressiveness, upbringing, communication, broken trust, or past traumas. It makes sense why relationships can be so hard to do on our own, but we are all capable of loving, safe, and healthy intimacy. I would love to help you break out of the frustrating relationship cycle you may feel stuck in.
I specialize in working with clients who are struggling with sex, intimacy, and anxiety specific to relationships.
I am dedicated to helping couples and individuals strengthen their relationships, build security, and navigate the challenges that can arise in intimate partnerships. We are wired to connect with others, yet emotional and physical intimacy can be so tough at times. Often couples are impacted by differences in desire, emotional expressiveness, upbringing, communication, broken trust, or past traumas. It makes sense why relationships can be so hard to do on our own, but we are all capable of loving, safe, and healthy intimacy. I would love to help you break out of the frustrating relationship cycle you may feel stuck in.
(617) 334-5061 View (617) 334-5061
Photo of Rich Domenico, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Rich Domenico
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, AASECT
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
I am an AASECT certified sex therapist and am certified as an Imago couple's therapist.
My work is informed by an optimistic belief in people's resiliency and ability to change and grow. I approach therapy as an opportunity for transformation. I work with high functioning, motivated clients who are ready to take a serious look at the direction of their lives and are open to change. In general, I would describe my style as warm, engaging, direct and interactive. I have developed a wide range of specialties from which to draw in order to meet each client's specific needs. After over 28 years, I continue to find the practice of psychotherapy interesting, rewarding, challenging and fun.
I am an AASECT certified sex therapist and am certified as an Imago couple's therapist.
My work is informed by an optimistic belief in people's resiliency and ability to change and grow. I approach therapy as an opportunity for transformation. I work with high functioning, motivated clients who are ready to take a serious look at the direction of their lives and are open to change. In general, I would describe my style as warm, engaging, direct and interactive. I have developed a wide range of specialties from which to draw in order to meet each client's specific needs. After over 28 years, I continue to find the practice of psychotherapy interesting, rewarding, challenging and fun.
(617) 936-8302 View (617) 936-8302
Photo of Heather Shannon | Certified Sex Therapist, Counselor in Boston, MA
Heather Shannon | Certified Sex Therapist
Counselor, LCPC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02108
Is there a disconnect between you & your partner(s) when it comes to your sex life? If so, please don't wait to get support! Because we're taught so little about sex, many of us shy away from the topic, but that just worsens things. Sex can start to feel like a chore and lack of sex can become the elephant in the room. It can even cause the end of your relationship if left unaddressed long enough. Before I became a sex therapist, I also found myself in this situation in my long-term relationship. But after 10,000 hours of coaching and counseling clients and becoming an AASECT certified sex therapist, I am confident I can help!
Is there a disconnect between you & your partner(s) when it comes to your sex life? If so, please don't wait to get support! Because we're taught so little about sex, many of us shy away from the topic, but that just worsens things. Sex can start to feel like a chore and lack of sex can become the elephant in the room. It can even cause the end of your relationship if left unaddressed long enough. Before I became a sex therapist, I also found myself in this situation in my long-term relationship. But after 10,000 hours of coaching and counseling clients and becoming an AASECT certified sex therapist, I am confident I can help!
(508) 545-9639 View (508) 545-9639
Photo of Matthew Sidler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Matthew Sidler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02108  (Online Only)
I work with clients to develop greater comfort around vulnerability, sex, and connection.
Have you been feeling stuck and wondering what’s next? Are you and your partner struggling to be on the same page? Is shame or fear of vulnerability getting in the way of connection? My couples and individuals want to see meaningful change in their lives and they are ready to put in the work. With that, I often describe my style as "caringly confrontational." I provide a validating and nonjudgmental space while calling clients in if something is getting in the way of connection or personal growth.
I work with clients to develop greater comfort around vulnerability, sex, and connection.
Have you been feeling stuck and wondering what’s next? Are you and your partner struggling to be on the same page? Is shame or fear of vulnerability getting in the way of connection? My couples and individuals want to see meaningful change in their lives and they are ready to put in the work. With that, I often describe my style as "caringly confrontational." I provide a validating and nonjudgmental space while calling clients in if something is getting in the way of connection or personal growth.
(857) 597-5506 View (857) 597-5506
Photo of Emily Eldar, Counselor in Boston, MA
Emily Eldar
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
I have made a professional study of relationships, sexuality, alternative lifestyles, trauma, and mindfulness.
Most of our struggles are relational in nature. As a relationship expert, I will guide you toward healing your relational wounds; to step into the self-actualized, meaningful, joyful life you dream of. We all sustain traumas which shape our beliefs about ourselves, others, and the world. When we understand our protective strategies we can then update our narratives, unburden our traumatized parts, heal attachment wounds, and make room to relate through our highest self. We can learn new skills in communication, somatic regulation, mindfulness, self-awareness, and more fully build the life which best serves our continual growth.
I have made a professional study of relationships, sexuality, alternative lifestyles, trauma, and mindfulness.
Most of our struggles are relational in nature. As a relationship expert, I will guide you toward healing your relational wounds; to step into the self-actualized, meaningful, joyful life you dream of. We all sustain traumas which shape our beliefs about ourselves, others, and the world. When we understand our protective strategies we can then update our narratives, unburden our traumatized parts, heal attachment wounds, and make room to relate through our highest self. We can learn new skills in communication, somatic regulation, mindfulness, self-awareness, and more fully build the life which best serves our continual growth.
(617) 936-8285 View (617) 936-8285
Photo of Dr. Ashley Sweet, Certified Sex Therapist, Counselor in Boston, MA
Dr. Ashley Sweet, Certified Sex Therapist
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, CST
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02215  (Online Only)
I specialize in sex and sexuality, and support all relationship styles, as long as they include consenting adults.
As a clinical sexologist, I help folks explore pleasure and better communicate in intimate relationships. As a relationship counselor, I work with couples and people in ENM relationships to improve their communication and connection. As a feminist therapist, I help clients dig deep to uncover their personal power, untangle anxiety and heal from trauma. I'm pro-choice, queer/bisexual identified, and welcome LGBTQ+ clients. I'm a curious counselor, and I help people dig to the roots of their pain. Fees are $200/session for individuals and $250 for couples (self-pay only, NO insurance).
I specialize in sex and sexuality, and support all relationship styles, as long as they include consenting adults.
As a clinical sexologist, I help folks explore pleasure and better communicate in intimate relationships. As a relationship counselor, I work with couples and people in ENM relationships to improve their communication and connection. As a feminist therapist, I help clients dig deep to uncover their personal power, untangle anxiety and heal from trauma. I'm pro-choice, queer/bisexual identified, and welcome LGBTQ+ clients. I'm a curious counselor, and I help people dig to the roots of their pain. Fees are $200/session for individuals and $250 for couples (self-pay only, NO insurance).
(617) 539-2895 View (617) 539-2895
Photo of Suki Hanfling, Institute for Sexuality & Intimacy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Suki Hanfling, Institute for Sexuality & Intimacy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, Certifi, SexTx, AASECT, Diploma
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02111  (Online Only)
Suki received the first New England New York American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapist's Award for Outstanding Contributions to the Field of Sex Therapy as Therapist, Teacher & Supervisor.
Do you wish you could feel more intimate with your partner? Has your sexual relationship lost it's passion & playfulness If so, call Suki Hanfling for a free 20min. phone consultation to explore whether couples/sex/tx. might be helpful. Her approach emphasizes the individual growth of each partner and the enhancement of the relationship. Although there are multiple factors contributing to most difficulties, she begins by addressing the immediate causes: communication difficulties, being "time starved" and performance anxiety. When indicated, therapy can then focus on complex causes, such as trust, control, and intimacy.
Suki received the first New England New York American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapist's Award for Outstanding Contributions to the Field of Sex Therapy as Therapist, Teacher & Supervisor.
Do you wish you could feel more intimate with your partner? Has your sexual relationship lost it's passion & playfulness If so, call Suki Hanfling for a free 20min. phone consultation to explore whether couples/sex/tx. might be helpful. Her approach emphasizes the individual growth of each partner and the enhancement of the relationship. Although there are multiple factors contributing to most difficulties, she begins by addressing the immediate causes: communication difficulties, being "time starved" and performance anxiety. When indicated, therapy can then focus on complex causes, such as trust, control, and intimacy.
(781) 670-7762 View (781) 670-7762
Photo of Eric Albert, Counselor in Boston, MA
Eric Albert
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02118
Your relationship is deeply important, so the sooner it warms up, the better. We'll find positive, practical steps you can take to make quick progress toward the shared future you long for, without dwelling on past problems or your childhood. In a safe, structured environment with experienced guidance, you can stop the arguing, improve communication, enjoy satisfying sex, recover from affairs, and end abuse. My goal-oriented, research-based approach dramatically reduces the risk of separation and divorce. Your relationship is worth fighting for.
Your relationship is deeply important, so the sooner it warms up, the better. We'll find positive, practical steps you can take to make quick progress toward the shared future you long for, without dwelling on past problems or your childhood. In a safe, structured environment with experienced guidance, you can stop the arguing, improve communication, enjoy satisfying sex, recover from affairs, and end abuse. My goal-oriented, research-based approach dramatically reduces the risk of separation and divorce. Your relationship is worth fighting for.
(617) 969-8869 View (617) 969-8869
Photo of Jenn Brandel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Jenn Brandel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include: mindfulness and meditation; strategies for coping with depression and anxiety; issues around sexuality, sexual functioning and relationships, sexual and gender identity, social skills, trauma, grief, attention training, boundary setting, humor, creativity, resiliency and living with uncertainty and change.
For more than 20 years, I have provided therapy to individuals, couples and groups, as well as offering training, consultation and clinical supervision to individuals and community organizations. My work centers around bridging transitions, fostering personal growth and developing compassionate responses and strategies to address life's challenges. In addition to providing support and encouragement, I will challenge you to think critically about the choices you are making and to work toward overcoming the obstacles that may be keeping you from achieving your goals.
My areas of expertise include: mindfulness and meditation; strategies for coping with depression and anxiety; issues around sexuality, sexual functioning and relationships, sexual and gender identity, social skills, trauma, grief, attention training, boundary setting, humor, creativity, resiliency and living with uncertainty and change.
For more than 20 years, I have provided therapy to individuals, couples and groups, as well as offering training, consultation and clinical supervision to individuals and community organizations. My work centers around bridging transitions, fostering personal growth and developing compassionate responses and strategies to address life's challenges. In addition to providing support and encouragement, I will challenge you to think critically about the choices you are making and to work toward overcoming the obstacles that may be keeping you from achieving your goals.
(617) 229-5492 View (617) 229-5492
Photo of Jeremiah Gibson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Boston, MA
Jeremiah Gibson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02124  (Online Only)
As our lives get more complicated and our communities get smaller, our relationships, marriages, and partnerships have never been more important. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Sex Therapist who helps individuals, couples, and families create fulfilling, healthy relationships by reducing stress and improving communication and intimacy. My space is affirming, strengths-based, nonjudgmental, and creative, and treatment will be tailored to your specific needs. I love my work because it allows me to daily witness healing and reconciliation between people who deeply love each other.
As our lives get more complicated and our communities get smaller, our relationships, marriages, and partnerships have never been more important. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Sex Therapist who helps individuals, couples, and families create fulfilling, healthy relationships by reducing stress and improving communication and intimacy. My space is affirming, strengths-based, nonjudgmental, and creative, and treatment will be tailored to your specific needs. I love my work because it allows me to daily witness healing and reconciliation between people who deeply love each other.
(339) 220-5057 View (339) 220-5057
Photo of Anita P Hoffer in Boston, MA
Anita P Hoffer
MS, PhD, EdD
Not Verified Not Verified
Boston, MA 02115  (Online Only)
I offer present- and future-oriented sexuality counseling and educational information tailored to individuals & couples with sexual concerns in a confidential and non-judgmental environment which is designed to empower the client(s) and not the problem. I also provide appropriate external resources while enhancing the internal resources client(s) already have to deal with their sexual concerns. Because of the centrality of sexual experience, this type of work can be transformational in many aspects of a client's life and not just their sexuality. I work as an equal and collaborative partner and am supportive and empathic.
I offer present- and future-oriented sexuality counseling and educational information tailored to individuals & couples with sexual concerns in a confidential and non-judgmental environment which is designed to empower the client(s) and not the problem. I also provide appropriate external resources while enhancing the internal resources client(s) already have to deal with their sexual concerns. Because of the centrality of sexual experience, this type of work can be transformational in many aspects of a client's life and not just their sexuality. I work as an equal and collaborative partner and am supportive and empathic.
(617) 904-9038 View (617) 904-9038
Photo of Yvonne Cordoba, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Yvonne Cordoba
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02134  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in relationships and sexuality. That includes addressing themes such as attachment wounds, conflict/conflict avoidance, differences in communication, infidelity, gaps in desire, low desire, difficulty communicating about sex, ENM, polyamory, etc. And to be explicit: LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC folks are most welcome. I primarily work with couples and occasionally work with individuals. Couples sessions are 75 minutes and cost is out of pocket only. Please email to schedule a short consultation call. Do not leave a voicemail.
I specialize in relationships and sexuality. That includes addressing themes such as attachment wounds, conflict/conflict avoidance, differences in communication, infidelity, gaps in desire, low desire, difficulty communicating about sex, ENM, polyamory, etc. And to be explicit: LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC folks are most welcome. I primarily work with couples and occasionally work with individuals. Couples sessions are 75 minutes and cost is out of pocket only. Please email to schedule a short consultation call. Do not leave a voicemail.
(413) 613-4638 View (413) 613-4638
Photo of Andrea Herber/ The Inside Compass, Psychologist in Boston, MA
Andrea Herber/ The Inside Compass
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
As a South African immigrant I love working with other's who question identity and meaning in life. My main goal is to empower you, finding your strengths, reducing negative thought cycles (anxiety, depression) and teaching you to untie your emotional knots and to live authentically with meaning. You will leave having better relationships with yourself, and others. Believe it or not we will do a lot of laughing while we work. Experience: creativity, work/life balance, sexuality, anxiety, leadership, couples therapy,premarital/dating, stress reduction. I have trained in diverse settings (including fellowship at Boston University's Danielsen Institute).
As a South African immigrant I love working with other's who question identity and meaning in life. My main goal is to empower you, finding your strengths, reducing negative thought cycles (anxiety, depression) and teaching you to untie your emotional knots and to live authentically with meaning. You will leave having better relationships with yourself, and others. Believe it or not we will do a lot of laughing while we work. Experience: creativity, work/life balance, sexuality, anxiety, leadership, couples therapy,premarital/dating, stress reduction. I have trained in diverse settings (including fellowship at Boston University's Danielsen Institute).
(617) 948-2610 View (617) 948-2610
Photo of Elizabeth (Bizzy) Lucey-Lenahan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Elizabeth (Bizzy) Lucey-Lenahan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, RYT200
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02117
I have specific training and education in trauma treatment, sex therapy, and neurobiology and am a certified yoga instructor.
My practice, Rooted Life Therapy, is grounded in the belief that effective therapy is meant to help us bloom and thrive wherever our roots were planted. I work with both individuals and couples looking for growth and change in their lives. I have specific training and experience working with young adults in times of transition, identity formation, anxiety, grief & loss, depression, family planning, relational conflicts, and premarital preparation. I believe that therapy is meant to be a collaborative and empowering process of understanding one's self or relationship more deeply to create a life that is fulfilling and flourishes.
I have specific training and education in trauma treatment, sex therapy, and neurobiology and am a certified yoga instructor.
My practice, Rooted Life Therapy, is grounded in the belief that effective therapy is meant to help us bloom and thrive wherever our roots were planted. I work with both individuals and couples looking for growth and change in their lives. I have specific training and experience working with young adults in times of transition, identity formation, anxiety, grief & loss, depression, family planning, relational conflicts, and premarital preparation. I believe that therapy is meant to be a collaborative and empowering process of understanding one's self or relationship more deeply to create a life that is fulfilling and flourishes.
(978) 486-7250 View (978) 486-7250
Photo of Emilie Mellal, Pre-Licensed Professional in Boston, MA
Emilie Mellal
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02125
My practice is: Queer/ Trans-affirming, Neurodiversity-affirming, Body positive, Fat positive, Sex positive, Kink-affirming, and Poly/Non-Monogamy-affirming. I work with individuals and relationships. I like to establish up front that I am a safe person to correct, call-out, interrupt, disagree and argue with. It will not impact our therapeutic relationship. You are the expert of your own life.
My practice is: Queer/ Trans-affirming, Neurodiversity-affirming, Body positive, Fat positive, Sex positive, Kink-affirming, and Poly/Non-Monogamy-affirming. I work with individuals and relationships. I like to establish up front that I am a safe person to correct, call-out, interrupt, disagree and argue with. It will not impact our therapeutic relationship. You are the expert of your own life.
(978) 440-6350 View (978) 440-6350
Photo of Emily Pilowa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Emily Pilowa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02108
I work with adult individuals and couples (heterosexual, queer and same sex couples).
The clients I work with know how much I love and deeply respect the work we do together. Using a combination of narrative therapy, strengths based therapy and psychodynamic methods, I help each person establish their personal story and identify their personal goals. In addition to talk therapy, I am an EMDR practitioner and use this treatment to relieve trauma and advance clinical treatments. Please visit my website for more info or contact me to set up a quick phone call.
I work with adult individuals and couples (heterosexual, queer and same sex couples).
The clients I work with know how much I love and deeply respect the work we do together. Using a combination of narrative therapy, strengths based therapy and psychodynamic methods, I help each person establish their personal story and identify their personal goals. In addition to talk therapy, I am an EMDR practitioner and use this treatment to relieve trauma and advance clinical treatments. Please visit my website for more info or contact me to set up a quick phone call.
(617) 209-4885 View (617) 209-4885
Photo of Michael Ruben Relationship Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Michael Ruben Relationship Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
Gain tools to deal with communication issues and conflict resolution. Learn how to recapture the love and spark you once shared in your relationship. Improve sexual and emotional intimacy with your partner. With a wealth of experience, I can help you find solutions to re-establish connection and closeness. I work with couples to resolve conflicts, improve communication, cultivate trust and intimacy, enhance sexual chemistry and romance, and become more compassionate partners. Our happiness is related to our relationships with our significant others. Improving your relationship can make a world of difference to your well being.
Gain tools to deal with communication issues and conflict resolution. Learn how to recapture the love and spark you once shared in your relationship. Improve sexual and emotional intimacy with your partner. With a wealth of experience, I can help you find solutions to re-establish connection and closeness. I work with couples to resolve conflicts, improve communication, cultivate trust and intimacy, enhance sexual chemistry and romance, and become more compassionate partners. Our happiness is related to our relationships with our significant others. Improving your relationship can make a world of difference to your well being.
(617) 657-2636 View (617) 657-2636
Photo of Jp Posnak, Counselor in Boston, MA
Jp Posnak
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02130  (Online Only)
I specialize in couples therapy because I think it has the potential to be uniquely transformative. Unlike many other forms of therapy in which we talk about relationships, in couples therapy, the relationship is happening in the room. The desire for change is strong when we risk losing what we treasure most. In this high-stakes, dynamic space, we often feel inspired to take risks that lead to lasting change.
I specialize in couples therapy because I think it has the potential to be uniquely transformative. Unlike many other forms of therapy in which we talk about relationships, in couples therapy, the relationship is happening in the room. The desire for change is strong when we risk losing what we treasure most. In this high-stakes, dynamic space, we often feel inspired to take risks that lead to lasting change.
(413) 350-1177 View (413) 350-1177
Photo of Joe Winn LICSW, CST-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Joe Winn LICSW, CST-S
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CST-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02118
Entering therapy requires courage and curiosity. What makes therapy important to me now? What do I really want from this experience? Am I ready to challenge myself? Am I prepared to invest the resources needed to make change? What are the consequences of not changing? These questions will provide a roadmap for therapy. I'm a resourceful therapist with many years of experience working with individuals and couples who have chosen to improve their relationships and lives. While the work of therapy can be challenging, the payoff can be amazing. You deserve a collaborative place to be supported in your desire to evolve and heal.
Entering therapy requires courage and curiosity. What makes therapy important to me now? What do I really want from this experience? Am I ready to challenge myself? Am I prepared to invest the resources needed to make change? What are the consequences of not changing? These questions will provide a roadmap for therapy. I'm a resourceful therapist with many years of experience working with individuals and couples who have chosen to improve their relationships and lives. While the work of therapy can be challenging, the payoff can be amazing. You deserve a collaborative place to be supported in your desire to evolve and heal.
(617) 500-2423 View (617) 500-2423
Photo of Tina Lin Huber, Marriage & Family Therapist in Boston, MA
Tina Lin Huber
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02210  (Online Only)
If you’re here, you’ve likely already seen several profiles, so I will skip the clichés. How do I differ? I am a systemic & relational therapist, and my focus is to view problems in a way that includes the intricate & larger influences of our past, beliefs, cultures, and upbringing. After all, we are shaped by where we come from and that informs much of how we navigate this world & our relationships. This distinctive therapeutic lens creates space for more context and a greater potential for healing – through mutual understanding, new meaning-making, and feeling “heard” & “seen” by others. I work w/ individuals, partners & families.
If you’re here, you’ve likely already seen several profiles, so I will skip the clichés. How do I differ? I am a systemic & relational therapist, and my focus is to view problems in a way that includes the intricate & larger influences of our past, beliefs, cultures, and upbringing. After all, we are shaped by where we come from and that informs much of how we navigate this world & our relationships. This distinctive therapeutic lens creates space for more context and a greater potential for healing – through mutual understanding, new meaning-making, and feeling “heard” & “seen” by others. I work w/ individuals, partners & families.
(857) 290-2570 View (857) 290-2570

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.