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 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 Meredith Walker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Meredith Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I graduated from Smith College School for Social Work, did a post-graduate fellowship at Harvard Medical School/Cambridge Health Alliance, & have a Certificate in Sex Therapy from the University of Michigan.
A year from now, you will wish you started today. - K. Lamb - Working with a therapist can provide support, help you foster insight, and build new strategies to identify and address the core issues that interfere with relationships and work. Therapy can increase the flexibility with which you think about and engage in your life. My intent is for us to create a reliable and safe environment in which we can work together to address the issues you've been facing, improve understanding of yourself and help you feel less stuck in existing patterns of managing challenges.
I graduated from Smith College School for Social Work, did a post-graduate fellowship at Harvard Medical School/Cambridge Health Alliance, & have a Certificate in Sex Therapy from the University of Michigan.
A year from now, you will wish you started today. - K. Lamb - Working with a therapist can provide support, help you foster insight, and build new strategies to identify and address the core issues that interfere with relationships and work. Therapy can increase the flexibility with which you think about and engage in your life. My intent is for us to create a reliable and safe environment in which we can work together to address the issues you've been facing, improve understanding of yourself and help you feel less stuck in existing patterns of managing challenges.
(617) 431-5853 View (617) 431-5853
Photo of Levi Rhodes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Boston, MA
Levi Rhodes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02125  (Online Only)
I'm passionate about offering sex therapy, redefining relationship structures, and processing life transitions.
Are you finding it hard to break free of the same disagreements, while feeling unheard or unrecognized by your partner? I enjoy working with couples and individuals that are struggling with communication, trust, anxiety, depression, recurring disagreements, infidelity and affair recovery, sexual challenges, performance anxiety, and evolving relationship structures. If you want to improve your relationship while addressing what's been avoided in the past, I think we could be a good fit. For couples in crisis, we could discuss Discernment Counseling or an Intensive as a way to address concerns immediately.
I'm passionate about offering sex therapy, redefining relationship structures, and processing life transitions.
Are you finding it hard to break free of the same disagreements, while feeling unheard or unrecognized by your partner? I enjoy working with couples and individuals that are struggling with communication, trust, anxiety, depression, recurring disagreements, infidelity and affair recovery, sexual challenges, performance anxiety, and evolving relationship structures. If you want to improve your relationship while addressing what's been avoided in the past, I think we could be a good fit. For couples in crisis, we could discuss Discernment Counseling or an Intensive as a way to address concerns immediately.
(617) 440-7928 View (617) 440-7928
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 Marissa Dungan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Marissa Dungan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02131
Focusing her practice on couples, sexuality, and family systems, Marissa works with couples and families navigating relational dynamics. Marissa has worked with couples to rebuild trust and create new relational agreements. She has experience working with interracial, interfaith, and multicultural families. Marissa is trained in the developmental model of couples therapy via South Shore Sexual Health Center. Her training includes working with desire, intimacy, infidelity conflict management, and parenting.
Focusing her practice on couples, sexuality, and family systems, Marissa works with couples and families navigating relational dynamics. Marissa has worked with couples to rebuild trust and create new relational agreements. She has experience working with interracial, interfaith, and multicultural families. Marissa is trained in the developmental model of couples therapy via South Shore Sexual Health Center. Her training includes working with desire, intimacy, infidelity conflict management, and parenting.
(781) 886-7902 View (781) 886-7902
Photo of Eric Rosin, Pre-Licensed Professional in Boston, MA
Eric Rosin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
I am particularly interested in the intersection of sexuality and emotional intimacy. Some of my clients struggle to love well; others struggle with sex. But all of my clients, perhaps all humans, juggle the sometimes contradictory demands of love and sex. They want to feel safe and loved, but they also want the thrill of adventure. They want to feel known, but they are also intrigued by mystery. They want to feel attached, but they are also turned on by novelty. I enjoy helping individuals and couples explore their potential to find deeper emotional connection and greater sexual freedom.
I am particularly interested in the intersection of sexuality and emotional intimacy. Some of my clients struggle to love well; others struggle with sex. But all of my clients, perhaps all humans, juggle the sometimes contradictory demands of love and sex. They want to feel safe and loved, but they also want the thrill of adventure. They want to feel known, but they are also intrigued by mystery. They want to feel attached, but they are also turned on by novelty. I enjoy helping individuals and couples explore their potential to find deeper emotional connection and greater sexual freedom.
(857) 232-8407 View (857) 232-8407
Photo of Dallas Sierra, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Dallas Sierra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
I have successfully treated anxiety disorders, mood disorders, sexual and sexuality concerns, those who have experienced traumatic events, grief and loss, and relationship problems.
Are you struggling with processing past traumatic events? EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR provides a proven approach to address the symptoms of trauma that can interfere with thriving in your everyday life. EMDR allows individuals to process incredible amounts of material in a shockingly short time.
I have successfully treated anxiety disorders, mood disorders, sexual and sexuality concerns, those who have experienced traumatic events, grief and loss, and relationship problems.
Are you struggling with processing past traumatic events? EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR provides a proven approach to address the symptoms of trauma that can interfere with thriving in your everyday life. EMDR allows individuals to process incredible amounts of material in a shockingly short time.
(857) 420-5911 View (857) 420-5911
Photo of Suzanne M Gable, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Suzanne M Gable
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, CSCT
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02108  (Online Only)
I am a sex-positive therapist offering a safe no judgement zone.
Has the compulsive use of pornography gotten in the way of having the connections you want to achieve in your life? Has your relationship been affected by adult content or chronic infidelity? Nowadays many people use adult content and can not recognize if they have a problem until it is brought to their attention by a loved one or they may have tried to unsuccessfully limit their use. Many people are simply just trying to escape from depression, anxiety or boredom. You may feel stuck, ashamed and embarrassed keeping this secret. Seeking help is the first step towards wellness.
I am a sex-positive therapist offering a safe no judgement zone.
Has the compulsive use of pornography gotten in the way of having the connections you want to achieve in your life? Has your relationship been affected by adult content or chronic infidelity? Nowadays many people use adult content and can not recognize if they have a problem until it is brought to their attention by a loved one or they may have tried to unsuccessfully limit their use. Many people are simply just trying to escape from depression, anxiety or boredom. You may feel stuck, ashamed and embarrassed keeping this secret. Seeking help is the first step towards wellness.
(857) 597-7028 View (857) 597-7028
Photo of Amanda Elyse Sieferman, Counselor in Boston, MA
Amanda Elyse Sieferman
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
I am a therapist who specializes in increasing sexual communication, pleasure, and satisfaction for my clients. I work with both individuals and couples to achieve the sexual lives they are looking for. People struggle with sex for many reasons such as learning "sex is bad", concern about differences in desire, no desire, struggling with sex/gender identity, trauma, lack of comfort/education about sex, anxiety about having sex/talking about sex with others, pelvic pain, not orgasming, ED, premature ejaculation etc. If this sounds like you I am here to help without judgement, to collaborate on how to create a new sexual narrative.
I am a therapist who specializes in increasing sexual communication, pleasure, and satisfaction for my clients. I work with both individuals and couples to achieve the sexual lives they are looking for. People struggle with sex for many reasons such as learning "sex is bad", concern about differences in desire, no desire, struggling with sex/gender identity, trauma, lack of comfort/education about sex, anxiety about having sex/talking about sex with others, pelvic pain, not orgasming, ED, premature ejaculation etc. If this sounds like you I am here to help without judgement, to collaborate on how to create a new sexual narrative.
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Photo of Erica N. Thrower, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Erica N. Thrower
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
I am certified in sex therapy and I specialize in treating individuals and couples who present with sexual concerns.
As a social worker and psychotherapist, I see adults and couples with the aim of providing a safe and accepting environment for everyone. I work with people seeking therapy for a wide range of reasons, including trauma, relationship issues, and sexual concerns. I believe that therapy can be helpful to any person who is willing to examine and improve upon their thoughts and behaviors. My goal is that through a collaborative therapeutic relationship, I can help my clients meet their personal and relational goals for growth.
I am certified in sex therapy and I specialize in treating individuals and couples who present with sexual concerns.
As a social worker and psychotherapist, I see adults and couples with the aim of providing a safe and accepting environment for everyone. I work with people seeking therapy for a wide range of reasons, including trauma, relationship issues, and sexual concerns. I believe that therapy can be helpful to any person who is willing to examine and improve upon their thoughts and behaviors. My goal is that through a collaborative therapeutic relationship, I can help my clients meet their personal and relational goals for growth.
(213) 372-0513 View (213) 372-0513
Photo of Rhode Island Sex Therapy, Counselor in Boston, MA
Rhode Island Sex Therapy
Counselor, LMHC, EdD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
Are you looking for a practice that is exclusively focused on sex therapy for individuals and couples? We are expert in sex and relationships who take a sex positive, solution focused approach to our work. We will work with you to identify what is going on and we will work on a treatment plan together to get you feeling better as soon as possible. Our Clinicians are "real", LGBTQ competent, Kink/BDSM competent, Ethical Non-monogamy, and of course sex positive!
Are you looking for a practice that is exclusively focused on sex therapy for individuals and couples? We are expert in sex and relationships who take a sex positive, solution focused approach to our work. We will work with you to identify what is going on and we will work on a treatment plan together to get you feeling better as soon as possible. Our Clinicians are "real", LGBTQ competent, Kink/BDSM competent, Ethical Non-monogamy, and of course sex positive!
(401) 336-6595 View (401) 336-6595
Photo of Elliot M Ruggles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Elliot M Ruggles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
I am a clinical social worker with advanced training in human sexuality. I assist clients in gaining insights about gender, sexuality and/or relationships. For example, I can help in healing from sexual harm, improve sexual functioning, address out-of-control sexual behavior, and help explore challenges related to sexuality and ability. I can help you live authentically within intimate relationships (inclusive of non-monogamy), and explore the development of sexual attraction and gender identity over the life course. I help many people heal from sexual harm and live more authentic lives from a holistic perspective.
I am a clinical social worker with advanced training in human sexuality. I assist clients in gaining insights about gender, sexuality and/or relationships. For example, I can help in healing from sexual harm, improve sexual functioning, address out-of-control sexual behavior, and help explore challenges related to sexuality and ability. I can help you live authentically within intimate relationships (inclusive of non-monogamy), and explore the development of sexual attraction and gender identity over the life course. I help many people heal from sexual harm and live more authentic lives from a holistic perspective.
(401) 340-3488 View (401) 340-3488
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 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 Valeria Chuba in Boston, MA
Valeria Chuba
PhD, SEP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02101  (Online Only)
I can help you resolve sex-related anxiety, low or uneven libido, effects of sexual trauma and negative experiences, sexual functioning issues, lack of sexual confidence, and difficulty experiencing pleasure. I’m a clinical sexologist and a somatic therapy practitioner. I use Somatic Experiencing and other neurophysiology-based therapies to help release the negative patterns and blocks your body holds around sex and intimacy and to teach you how to feel more embodied, connected and confident. I combine this approach with sex coaching and education to help you achieve your unique vision for a pleasurable and fulfilling sex life.
I can help you resolve sex-related anxiety, low or uneven libido, effects of sexual trauma and negative experiences, sexual functioning issues, lack of sexual confidence, and difficulty experiencing pleasure. I’m a clinical sexologist and a somatic therapy practitioner. I use Somatic Experiencing and other neurophysiology-based therapies to help release the negative patterns and blocks your body holds around sex and intimacy and to teach you how to feel more embodied, connected and confident. I combine this approach with sex coaching and education to help you achieve your unique vision for a pleasurable and fulfilling sex life.
(857) 496-6440 View (857) 496-6440
Photo of Avery R Klotsche, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Avery R Klotsche
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02101  (Online Only)
My specializations include sex therapy, trauma, and grief and my therapeutic orientation is relational, feminist, and behavioral.
Life transitions often lead us to feel overwhelmed. While people close to us may be supportive, we may not always feel able to share with them our doubts and discomfort. Whether we’re holding our own or a loved one's sexuality or gender identity; navigating changes in our primary relationships, or reflecting on adverse experiences, having a safe space to reflect and process is invaluable. My practice serves adult clients who have struggled with anxiety, live with trauma or grief, or who experience the world as members or allies of the LGBTQ+ community. My approach is conversational, strengths-based, and results-oriented.
My specializations include sex therapy, trauma, and grief and my therapeutic orientation is relational, feminist, and behavioral.
Life transitions often lead us to feel overwhelmed. While people close to us may be supportive, we may not always feel able to share with them our doubts and discomfort. Whether we’re holding our own or a loved one's sexuality or gender identity; navigating changes in our primary relationships, or reflecting on adverse experiences, having a safe space to reflect and process is invaluable. My practice serves adult clients who have struggled with anxiety, live with trauma or grief, or who experience the world as members or allies of the LGBTQ+ community. My approach is conversational, strengths-based, and results-oriented.
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Photo of Peg Hurley Dawson, Ph.D., Counselor in Boston, MA
Peg Hurley Dawson, Ph.D.
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02105
Specializing in treatment of sex and relationship issues, "sex addiction", problematic sexual behavior, complex trauma, PTSD, sexual pain, mismatched desire, non-traditional relationships. I utilize the following modalities: EMDR, IFS, Transforming the Experienced-Based Brain (TEB) for developmental trauma, Safe and Sound protocol (SSP), somatic psychotherapy, sandplay & sandtray. I am also informed by the Polyvagal theory and neuroscience. I offer a unique multifaceted, sex positive approach and supervisor. In addition, author of Sand Therapy for Out of Control Sexual Behavior, Shame, and Trauma: Treatment Approaches Beyond Words.
Specializing in treatment of sex and relationship issues, "sex addiction", problematic sexual behavior, complex trauma, PTSD, sexual pain, mismatched desire, non-traditional relationships. I utilize the following modalities: EMDR, IFS, Transforming the Experienced-Based Brain (TEB) for developmental trauma, Safe and Sound protocol (SSP), somatic psychotherapy, sandplay & sandtray. I am also informed by the Polyvagal theory and neuroscience. I offer a unique multifaceted, sex positive approach and supervisor. In addition, author of Sand Therapy for Out of Control Sexual Behavior, Shame, and Trauma: Treatment Approaches Beyond Words.
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Photo of Renee Santos, Counselor in Boston, MA
Renee Santos
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02102  (Online Only)
If needed, I’ll work with you from a sex-positive perspective and can support you, no matter what you’re going through.
I offer a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. If you want to achieve greater self-awareness and understanding, and develop the skills and insights necessary to make positive changes in your life, then let’s talk. I’d love to help you live a fulfilling and satisfying life, free from fear of discrimination or stigma, while cultivating healthy and fulfilling relationships that align with your values and desires. Additionally, if you are a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I want to provide you with a safe and affirming space.
If needed, I’ll work with you from a sex-positive perspective and can support you, no matter what you’re going through.
I offer a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. If you want to achieve greater self-awareness and understanding, and develop the skills and insights necessary to make positive changes in your life, then let’s talk. I’d love to help you live a fulfilling and satisfying life, free from fear of discrimination or stigma, while cultivating healthy and fulfilling relationships that align with your values and desires. Additionally, if you are a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I want to provide you with a safe and affirming space.
(619) 494-1944 View (619) 494-1944
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
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.