Sex Therapists in Kansas City, MO

Photo of Kimberly Wallace-Young, PhD, Psychologist
Kimberly Wallace-Young
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110
After completing my PhD and post-doctoral fellowship in Counseling Psychology, I went on to complete hundreds of hours of training (recommended by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists) related to sexual, reproductive and gender health.
I sincerely trust in an individual’s ability to heal, even from profound pain and trauma. My practice focuses on intimacy and relationship well-being, as well as a wide range of psychological concerns, including: anxiety, recovery following illness or medical trauma (eg, life threatening diagnosis, or lack of regard by providers), deconstruction of old beliefs, pain with intercourse, sexual dysfunction, and grief. I also make it a sincere priority to be aligned with the LGBTQIA community. My website presents a great deal of information about sexual therapy, simply because it is often omitted from healing..
After completing my PhD and post-doctoral fellowship in Counseling Psychology, I went on to complete hundreds of hours of training (recommended by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists) related to sexual, reproductive and gender health.
I sincerely trust in an individual’s ability to heal, even from profound pain and trauma. My practice focuses on intimacy and relationship well-being, as well as a wide range of psychological concerns, including: anxiety, recovery following illness or medical trauma (eg, life threatening diagnosis, or lack of regard by providers), deconstruction of old beliefs, pain with intercourse, sexual dysfunction, and grief. I also make it a sincere priority to be aligned with the LGBTQIA community. My website presents a great deal of information about sexual therapy, simply because it is often omitted from healing..
(816) 208-8307 View (816) 208-8307
Photo of Chuck Franks, MA, LCSW, CST, CST-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chuck Franks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, CST, CST-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64116
Exploring and clarifying that space can help identify what you'r wanting more of in your life and developing strategies to cope, overcome and integrate sexual health principles into your life and relationships.
My clients find it empowering to not just talk about a problem but also to create ways of coping through learning new skills and allowing new perspectives. I help clients who want to be truly authentic. Sexuality and the pursuit of our sexual health is important as we strive to integrate our expression into our relationships. I help individuals incorporate their true selves into their relationships. My specialties are sexual problems, issues of sexual identity/orientation, consensual non-monogamy, out of control sexual behavior more commonly known as sex or porn addiction.
Exploring and clarifying that space can help identify what you'r wanting more of in your life and developing strategies to cope, overcome and integrate sexual health principles into your life and relationships.
My clients find it empowering to not just talk about a problem but also to create ways of coping through learning new skills and allowing new perspectives. I help clients who want to be truly authentic. Sexuality and the pursuit of our sexual health is important as we strive to integrate our expression into our relationships. I help individuals incorporate their true selves into their relationships. My specialties are sexual problems, issues of sexual identity/orientation, consensual non-monogamy, out of control sexual behavior more commonly known as sex or porn addiction.
(816) 925-9509 View (816) 925-9509
Photo of Kelley M Grbac, LCSW-MO, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelley M Grbac
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-MO, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64111
I am a licensed clinical social worker and sexuality practitioner that is trained in working with people who have or are experiencing trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, crisis, relationship and sexual issues.
Have you been feeling stuck in your life or relationship? Feeling like maybe things could be better? Do you experience shame with your body and sexuality? You might wish to overcome the stigmas associated with that shame and live a more empowered life full of joy and pleasure. Are you in a non tradition style relationship and need guidance?
I am a licensed clinical social worker and sexuality practitioner that is trained in working with people who have or are experiencing trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, crisis, relationship and sexual issues.
Have you been feeling stuck in your life or relationship? Feeling like maybe things could be better? Do you experience shame with your body and sexuality? You might wish to overcome the stigmas associated with that shame and live a more empowered life full of joy and pleasure. Are you in a non tradition style relationship and need guidance?
(816) 327-2194 View (816) 327-2194
Photo of Leah Kb Krieger, CST, LPC, MA, MBA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leah Kb Krieger
Licensed Professional Counselor, CST, LPC, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110
I am Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Sex Therapist through AASEC T.
Specializing in empowerment, trauma, anxiety, relationships, intimacy, sex, and perinatal mental health. My clients are seeking more in life. Their internal compass has led them to seek counseling services, and I am an honored and humbled passenger on their therapy journey.
I am Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Sex Therapist through AASEC T.
Specializing in empowerment, trauma, anxiety, relationships, intimacy, sex, and perinatal mental health. My clients are seeking more in life. Their internal compass has led them to seek counseling services, and I am an honored and humbled passenger on their therapy journey.
(816) 312-5974 View (816) 312-5974
Photo of Peggy K Chilson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peggy K Chilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64111
If you are interested in making a change in your life, but don’t know where to begin, I can help you. We can work together to understand what you need and how you can achieve your goals. My areas of expertise include human sexuality and I have helped others in regards to their own childhood sexual abuse, sexual dysfunction in intimate relationships and sexual addiction. I am very interested in working with parents about talking to their own children about healthy sexuality.
If you are interested in making a change in your life, but don’t know where to begin, I can help you. We can work together to understand what you need and how you can achieve your goals. My areas of expertise include human sexuality and I have helped others in regards to their own childhood sexual abuse, sexual dysfunction in intimate relationships and sexual addiction. I am very interested in working with parents about talking to their own children about healthy sexuality.
(816) 323-5317 View (816) 323-5317
Photo of Whitney Blake Ide - Whitney B Ide Counseling, LLC, MA, LPC, Counselor
Whitney B Ide Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114
I welcome any problem a person is having, but have special interest and training in the areas of addiction (substances, gambling, sex, eating, gaming, etc.
Making the decision to seek help is the the first step towards living a healthier, happier life. The second step is finding the right therapist. I believe that success in therapy is dependent on the strength of the relationship between the counselor and client. I view myself as an advocate, a catalyst for change, and an objective sounding board, rather than an expert who can listen to your problems for an hour and then magically know how to run your life better than you do. You are the expert on you! My job is to help you learn how to help yourself.
I welcome any problem a person is having, but have special interest and training in the areas of addiction (substances, gambling, sex, eating, gaming, etc.
Making the decision to seek help is the the first step towards living a healthier, happier life. The second step is finding the right therapist. I believe that success in therapy is dependent on the strength of the relationship between the counselor and client. I view myself as an advocate, a catalyst for change, and an objective sounding board, rather than an expert who can listen to your problems for an hour and then magically know how to run your life better than you do. You are the expert on you! My job is to help you learn how to help yourself.
(816) 482-3675 View (816) 482-3675
Photo of Christina McDowell, PhD, LSCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina McDowell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LSCSW, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110  (Online Only)
I am a nationally certified sex therapist.
Therapy is a collaboration where we discover creative solutions to your problems, find strong clarity, and discover your truth and powerful, inner voice. I believe in the resiliency of the human spirit and the ability we all have to rise above adversity and intentionally craft our lives. My approach is eclectic and I use solution-focused, evidence-based methods in addition to traditional modalities such as mindfulness and mind/body techniques. Therapy isn't about finding out what is "wrong" with you. At the heart of it, it is about learning, understanding, and discovering the beauty and courage that has been inside all along.
I am a nationally certified sex therapist.
Therapy is a collaboration where we discover creative solutions to your problems, find strong clarity, and discover your truth and powerful, inner voice. I believe in the resiliency of the human spirit and the ability we all have to rise above adversity and intentionally craft our lives. My approach is eclectic and I use solution-focused, evidence-based methods in addition to traditional modalities such as mindfulness and mind/body techniques. Therapy isn't about finding out what is "wrong" with you. At the heart of it, it is about learning, understanding, and discovering the beauty and courage that has been inside all along.
(816) 209-1305 View (816) 209-1305
Photo of Cassie Willnauer, MA, LCPC, LPC, CST
Cassie Willnauer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64101
I have special training in Perinatal Mood Disorders from Postpartum Support International, and am a Certified Sex Therapist through AASECT.
Most of my clients come to me because they’re struggling with their sex life and they’re pretty sure it’s all their fault. They’re not having the kind of sex that they want or sex has just become an enormous problem in their relationship. I often find that at the root of these issues surrounding sexuality is shame. Sometimes that shame is connected to: poor self-esteem or body image, believing you don’t deserve sexual pleasure, a belief that whatever you’re into is just too "weird" and you want to feel “normal” but can’t shake this particular desire, or societal & cultural expectations of gender roles.
I have special training in Perinatal Mood Disorders from Postpartum Support International, and am a Certified Sex Therapist through AASECT.
Most of my clients come to me because they’re struggling with their sex life and they’re pretty sure it’s all their fault. They’re not having the kind of sex that they want or sex has just become an enormous problem in their relationship. I often find that at the root of these issues surrounding sexuality is shame. Sometimes that shame is connected to: poor self-esteem or body image, believing you don’t deserve sexual pleasure, a belief that whatever you’re into is just too "weird" and you want to feel “normal” but can’t shake this particular desire, or societal & cultural expectations of gender roles.
(913) 270-0975 View (913) 270-0975
Photo of Megan MacKenzie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan MacKenzie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64102
As a relationship, sex, and gender therapist, I help couples, relationships, and individuals explore explore identities, experience greater pleasure and intimacy, and recalibrate toward more authentic, compassionate, and courageous lives. I am passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ folks in exploring and healing from the negative impacts of internalized homophobia and transphobia as they often manifest in shame, guilt, and low self-esteem.
As a relationship, sex, and gender therapist, I help couples, relationships, and individuals explore explore identities, experience greater pleasure and intimacy, and recalibrate toward more authentic, compassionate, and courageous lives. I am passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ folks in exploring and healing from the negative impacts of internalized homophobia and transphobia as they often manifest in shame, guilt, and low self-esteem.
(314) 626-0543 View (314) 626-0543
Photo of Richard Ashby, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Richard Ashby
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64116
My specializations in the above concerns drove me to seek specific training in human sexuality, digital wellness, and ADHD.
Hello there! Do you struggle with anxiety, ADHD, or something related to sexuality? Do you struggle with a behavior, or behaviors, almost as if driven, like an addiction? Perhaps you have questions about your sexuality or gender, concerns about sexual pain, or even concerns about your enjoyment of sex. These statements represent a few ideas of what I specialize in as a professional mental health counselor. Through working within my specializations, I also treat depression, OCD, PTSD, and various personality concerns.
My specializations in the above concerns drove me to seek specific training in human sexuality, digital wellness, and ADHD.
Hello there! Do you struggle with anxiety, ADHD, or something related to sexuality? Do you struggle with a behavior, or behaviors, almost as if driven, like an addiction? Perhaps you have questions about your sexuality or gender, concerns about sexual pain, or even concerns about your enjoyment of sex. These statements represent a few ideas of what I specialize in as a professional mental health counselor. Through working within my specializations, I also treat depression, OCD, PTSD, and various personality concerns.
(816) 227-6520 View (816) 227-6520
Photo of Angela Cochneuer, MA, LPC, LCPC, NCC, CST, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela Cochneuer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, NCC, CST
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64119
Seriously- I’m not only a trauma and attachment therapist, I’m a sex therapist - haha nothing is off limits!.
What it’s like to come in for therapy? Therapy is about sharing vulnerability that you may not have experienced before, or at least not experienced positively before. We’re not friends, but we have a connection that we build that is professionally intimate and caring. Therapy is about analysis and making meaning of things that you have gone through and are presently dealing with. Sometimes that presents challenges to a person, things that are occurring with us are tough to look at and face- that’s why I’m here. I will help you look at things that are hard to take in and help you to either accept and appreciate or accept and change.
Seriously- I’m not only a trauma and attachment therapist, I’m a sex therapist - haha nothing is off limits!.
What it’s like to come in for therapy? Therapy is about sharing vulnerability that you may not have experienced before, or at least not experienced positively before. We’re not friends, but we have a connection that we build that is professionally intimate and caring. Therapy is about analysis and making meaning of things that you have gone through and are presently dealing with. Sometimes that presents challenges to a person, things that are occurring with us are tough to look at and face- that’s why I’m here. I will help you look at things that are hard to take in and help you to either accept and appreciate or accept and change.
(816) 839-4938 View (816) 839-4938
Photo of Holly Hemphill, MS, LMFT, DAACS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Holly Hemphill
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, DAACS
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64153
It is not uncommon for emotional problems within the relationship to create sexual dysfunction and problems with intimacy.
Everybody has periods in their lives where they find themselves struggling with the circumstances of life. I offer an environment that can address these issues and answers can be found in a positive and supportive atmosphere. Working on improving communication, intimacy and connection can help breathe life into your relationship, and I look forward to contributing to that journey. That journey may include the use of talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, and emotionally focused therapy.
It is not uncommon for emotional problems within the relationship to create sexual dysfunction and problems with intimacy.
Everybody has periods in their lives where they find themselves struggling with the circumstances of life. I offer an environment that can address these issues and answers can be found in a positive and supportive atmosphere. Working on improving communication, intimacy and connection can help breathe life into your relationship, and I look forward to contributing to that journey. That journey may include the use of talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, and emotionally focused therapy.
(816) 607-4221 View (816) 607-4221
Photo of Crystal D Deets, MSCP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crystal D Deets
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64154  (Online Only)
Individuals who have seen the best outcomes from my approach have struggled with anxiety, sexuality, gender, social interactions, autism, eating behaviors, and individuals who are looking for a better understanding of themselves.
Struggling with anxiety, social interactions. sexuality or better understanding yourself? I utilize a collaborative process to help improve self esteem, compassion, and understanding of self. I focus on meeting you where you are, identifying where you would like to be, and working collaboratively to move you closer to this and help you feel happier with your life. I can also provide letter for Gender Affirming Surgery. If you are seeking this we can schedule a time to meet and discuss fees and appointments related to this.
Individuals who have seen the best outcomes from my approach have struggled with anxiety, sexuality, gender, social interactions, autism, eating behaviors, and individuals who are looking for a better understanding of themselves.
Struggling with anxiety, social interactions. sexuality or better understanding yourself? I utilize a collaborative process to help improve self esteem, compassion, and understanding of self. I focus on meeting you where you are, identifying where you would like to be, and working collaboratively to move you closer to this and help you feel happier with your life. I can also provide letter for Gender Affirming Surgery. If you are seeking this we can schedule a time to meet and discuss fees and appointments related to this.
(816) 466-5236 View (816) 466-5236
Photo of Andrew Sherwood - Andrew Sherwood Ph.D. - Jungian Analyst - LCSW, PhD, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrew Sherwood Ph.D. - Jungian Analyst - LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64131
I typically work with adults (over 45 and often older folks above the age of 60) of various races & ethnicities, genders & sexualities, religions & spiritualities. All are welcome. Jungian analysis is a journey of profound self-discovery. It may be that the depths of the psyche ask for a different life experience! Symptoms like depression, anxiety, relationship / sexuality issues can begin the exploration of what a more meaningful & interesting life might look like. Note: This type of therapy is not a 'quick fix' process. As of September 2024, I am accepting new clients.
I typically work with adults (over 45 and often older folks above the age of 60) of various races & ethnicities, genders & sexualities, religions & spiritualities. All are welcome. Jungian analysis is a journey of profound self-discovery. It may be that the depths of the psyche ask for a different life experience! Symptoms like depression, anxiety, relationship / sexuality issues can begin the exploration of what a more meaningful & interesting life might look like. Note: This type of therapy is not a 'quick fix' process. As of September 2024, I am accepting new clients.
(816) 327-9740 View (816) 327-9740
Photo of Brian P Heydon, EdS, LPC, CIT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brian P Heydon
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, CIT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114
I specialize in Imago Relationship Therapy as well as crisis intervention, addiction, mood disorders, sexuality issues, child/adolescent problems, and adjustment issues among high-functioning professionals.
Finding the right counselor may be one of the most important decisions you can make in seeking a better life. As my client, you will be provided a therapeutic relationship that is non-threatening, challenging, empowering, and ultimately life changing. You will find that your pain, which is actually healing trying to happen, will be lessened and most likely alleviated, your feelings and experiences are valid, and that you can make positive changes to improve your life and relationships. I'm a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist and specialize in relationships - between couples, parents and children, friends - any human relationship
I specialize in Imago Relationship Therapy as well as crisis intervention, addiction, mood disorders, sexuality issues, child/adolescent problems, and adjustment issues among high-functioning professionals.
Finding the right counselor may be one of the most important decisions you can make in seeking a better life. As my client, you will be provided a therapeutic relationship that is non-threatening, challenging, empowering, and ultimately life changing. You will find that your pain, which is actually healing trying to happen, will be lessened and most likely alleviated, your feelings and experiences are valid, and that you can make positive changes to improve your life and relationships. I'm a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist and specialize in relationships - between couples, parents and children, friends - any human relationship
(816) 659-3196 View (816) 659-3196
Photo of Caitlyn Crawford, MS, LCMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Caitlyn Crawford
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64109
Passion Populations & Specializations: LGBTQ+, Couples of all varieties, Sex Therapy, Women-Empowerment, Teens. I'm in the business of story-shaping. I believe we become the stories we tell ourselves about ourselves. People are not defined by their problems. Are you stuck in a story that feels disempowering or defeating? Do you no longer feel like your own narrator? Let me be your co-author and collaborator in creating your counter story—a brand new, one-of-a-kind tale that aligns with your truest, most authentic self.
Passion Populations & Specializations: LGBTQ+, Couples of all varieties, Sex Therapy, Women-Empowerment, Teens. I'm in the business of story-shaping. I believe we become the stories we tell ourselves about ourselves. People are not defined by their problems. Are you stuck in a story that feels disempowering or defeating? Do you no longer feel like your own narrator? Let me be your co-author and collaborator in creating your counter story—a brand new, one-of-a-kind tale that aligns with your truest, most authentic self.
(913) 246-5085 View (913) 246-5085
Photo of Olivia Steffen, LCPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Olivia Steffen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64102
Waitlist for new clients
I am LGTBQ affirming and a sex positive therapist.
I am currently on maternity leave and have a waitlist for new patients upon my return. My approach to counseling is rooted in relational psychoanalytic work and engages people as their whole selves. I attend to your past experiences as well as what is happening in the room. This includes what is coming up in your thoughts, feelings, and body.
I am LGTBQ affirming and a sex positive therapist.
I am currently on maternity leave and have a waitlist for new patients upon my return. My approach to counseling is rooted in relational psychoanalytic work and engages people as their whole selves. I attend to your past experiences as well as what is happening in the room. This includes what is coming up in your thoughts, feelings, and body.
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Photo of Lori Schwartz, Psychologist
Lori Schwartz
Psychologist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64114
I am a certified sex therapist through the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapists.
My specialty is working with patients with relationship concerns and adjustment to life circumstances. I enjoy working with young adults and couples and am a certifed sex therapist through the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapists. I have experience working with sexual dysfunctions and interpersonal concerns. I really enjoy working together with patients to analyze problems and am active in providing solutions to problems. Secondarily, I enjoy working with adults and children, evaluating educational and emotional concerns. I have had over 20 years of clinical experience.
I am a certified sex therapist through the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapists.
My specialty is working with patients with relationship concerns and adjustment to life circumstances. I enjoy working with young adults and couples and am a certifed sex therapist through the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapists. I have experience working with sexual dysfunctions and interpersonal concerns. I really enjoy working together with patients to analyze problems and am active in providing solutions to problems. Secondarily, I enjoy working with adults and children, evaluating educational and emotional concerns. I have had over 20 years of clinical experience.
(816) 659-3290 View (816) 659-3290
Photo of Steven Fields, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steven Fields
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64146  (Online Only)
As we live, we write the stories of our lives. Sometimes the pen gets too heavy. Sometimes we don’t know where to start… or how to continue. And then there’s writer’s block, the faltering of the creative process somewhere in our hearts, our minds, our bodies producing dis-orders and dis-eases. Maybe you have lost a Loved one. Maybe you’re starting a new relationship. Maybe you want a new job. Maybe you just want change. I believe the remedy is in the beliefs/feelings, thoughts, and behaviors fueling the writer’s block or dis-ease, and I am a dis-ease specialist. I am a sex therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) i
As we live, we write the stories of our lives. Sometimes the pen gets too heavy. Sometimes we don’t know where to start… or how to continue. And then there’s writer’s block, the faltering of the creative process somewhere in our hearts, our minds, our bodies producing dis-orders and dis-eases. Maybe you have lost a Loved one. Maybe you’re starting a new relationship. Maybe you want a new job. Maybe you just want change. I believe the remedy is in the beliefs/feelings, thoughts, and behaviors fueling the writer’s block or dis-ease, and I am a dis-ease specialist. I am a sex therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) i
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Nan Tilbury, LPC, CSAT, CDWF, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nan Tilbury
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAT, CDWF
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64113
You want to improve your relationship without spending months in therapy. You want to make significant changes with a therapist to whom you feel a connection. You wish you could be content, happy, engaged, and connected with your partner like you used to be. Perhaps porn or infidelity has devastated your relationship. Or, you feel unhappy, disconnected, stuck, and hopeless in other ways. Maybe you're experiencing conflict resolution difficulty, intimacy and sexuality issues, parenting disagreements, or financial conflicts. Gottman Therapy is the gold standard of couples therapy for a reseached-based reason.
You want to improve your relationship without spending months in therapy. You want to make significant changes with a therapist to whom you feel a connection. You wish you could be content, happy, engaged, and connected with your partner like you used to be. Perhaps porn or infidelity has devastated your relationship. Or, you feel unhappy, disconnected, stuck, and hopeless in other ways. Maybe you're experiencing conflict resolution difficulty, intimacy and sexuality issues, parenting disagreements, or financial conflicts. Gottman Therapy is the gold standard of couples therapy for a reseached-based reason.
(816) 208-8451 View (816) 208-8451
1

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.