Photo of Kristina Barnett, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oregon
Kristina Barnett
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
I bring an intersectional feminist, anti-racist, LGBTQIA2+-affirming, sex-positive perspective to the therapy process.
I'm so glad you found me! Whether you are struggling with relationship issues or experiencing anxiety and depression symptoms, I am here to help. Many of our human struggles emerge from troubled connections with significant people in our lives or with ourselves. Together, we will explore and change the patterns in your life that are getting in the way of your peace and well-being by cultivating a sense of safety and healthy boundaries.
I bring an intersectional feminist, anti-racist, LGBTQIA2+-affirming, sex-positive perspective to the therapy process.
I'm so glad you found me! Whether you are struggling with relationship issues or experiencing anxiety and depression symptoms, I am here to help. Many of our human struggles emerge from troubled connections with significant people in our lives or with ourselves. Together, we will explore and change the patterns in your life that are getting in the way of your peace and well-being by cultivating a sense of safety and healthy boundaries.
(503) 461-7367 View (503) 461-7367
Photo of Night Sky Therapy, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Night Sky Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301  (Online Only)
Living in a society that is both sexually repressed and obsessed with sex is confusing at the best of times. Overwhelmingly we weren’t offered the correct information about our natural urges or bodies, and we are sometimes even shamed for asking. This can often result in low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, guilt, shame, and isolation. I can help you navigate in improving your courage, mastery, and gaining healthier boundaries (that you are worthy of!) in order to be your most genuine self. We will work together at your pace in order to identify strengths and barriers and to gain confidence in making life choices and transitions.
Living in a society that is both sexually repressed and obsessed with sex is confusing at the best of times. Overwhelmingly we weren’t offered the correct information about our natural urges or bodies, and we are sometimes even shamed for asking. This can often result in low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, guilt, shame, and isolation. I can help you navigate in improving your courage, mastery, and gaining healthier boundaries (that you are worthy of!) in order to be your most genuine self. We will work together at your pace in order to identify strengths and barriers and to gain confidence in making life choices and transitions.
(503) 854-5626 View (503) 854-5626
Photo of Kelly Rees in Oregon
Kelly Rees
MBA, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
There is no age at which sex becomes inappropriate.
I focus on intimate relationships, sexual expression, disparate desire, shifting intimacy, alternative relating styles, polyamory. This often includes performance issues, the impact of aging and menopause, dealing with grief and jealousy. I have experience working with differing abilities and my clients range in age from mid-twenties to mid-nineties. I also work with those in recovery from drug/alcohol addiction and their specific issues around sex and relationships. I aim to engage the mind and heart while centering on the body. Pleasure is important and a great way to learn!
There is no age at which sex becomes inappropriate.
I focus on intimate relationships, sexual expression, disparate desire, shifting intimacy, alternative relating styles, polyamory. This often includes performance issues, the impact of aging and menopause, dealing with grief and jealousy. I have experience working with differing abilities and my clients range in age from mid-twenties to mid-nineties. I also work with those in recovery from drug/alcohol addiction and their specific issues around sex and relationships. I aim to engage the mind and heart while centering on the body. Pleasure is important and a great way to learn!
(503) 917-3785 View (503) 917-3785
Photo of Trisha Nozumi, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oregon
Trisha Nozumi
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, QMHP-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
I am currently working towards an AASECT sex therapy certification.
As a therapist, my approach is grounded in empathy, compassion, and person-centered counseling. I don’t believe that therapy is a “one size fits all,” and I utilize a variety of methods, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Attachment Theory to provide an approach that will fit your individual needs.
I am currently working towards an AASECT sex therapy certification.
As a therapist, my approach is grounded in empathy, compassion, and person-centered counseling. I don’t believe that therapy is a “one size fits all,” and I utilize a variety of methods, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Attachment Theory to provide an approach that will fit your individual needs.
(503) 461-5449 View (503) 461-5449
Photo of Heather Leilani Simpson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oregon
Heather Leilani Simpson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Whether you are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or any other concerns, you deserve a therapist who will be open and supportive yet willing to challenge you gently when needed.  With an approach that combines connection and boundaries, we can work together to help you find the agency you need to move through life with pleasure. I specialize in working with BIPOC, LGTBQIA, Polyamory/Non-Monogamous, and Kink/BDSM communities to provide comprehensive, evidence based, trauma informed, sex positive therapy, that meets the needs of sexual marginalized populations.
Whether you are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or any other concerns, you deserve a therapist who will be open and supportive yet willing to challenge you gently when needed.  With an approach that combines connection and boundaries, we can work together to help you find the agency you need to move through life with pleasure. I specialize in working with BIPOC, LGTBQIA, Polyamory/Non-Monogamous, and Kink/BDSM communities to provide comprehensive, evidence based, trauma informed, sex positive therapy, that meets the needs of sexual marginalized populations.
(503) 994-9547 View (503) 994-9547
Photo of The Center for Couple's & Sex Therapy , Marriage & Family Therapist in Oregon
The Center for Couple's & Sex Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Our therapists are highly specialized, compassionate, and dedicated to helping you create more pleasure and connection in your life. We believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality, specialized therapeutic care. The Center stands with and supports LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, Latinx, AAPI, Immigrant and Native communities. We are gender and trans-affirming, anti-racist, and open to supporting folks in monogamous and non-mongamous relationships of any kind. We pride ourselves on providing sex positive therapy to all individuals in our community.
Our therapists are highly specialized, compassionate, and dedicated to helping you create more pleasure and connection in your life. We believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality, specialized therapeutic care. The Center stands with and supports LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, Latinx, AAPI, Immigrant and Native communities. We are gender and trans-affirming, anti-racist, and open to supporting folks in monogamous and non-mongamous relationships of any kind. We pride ourselves on providing sex positive therapy to all individuals in our community.
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Photo of Andrea J. Wright Johnston, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oregon
Andrea J. Wright Johnston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
We work to create new awareness, new knowledge and new possibilities. You can have an empowered family and a happy state of mind through therapy. I work with individuals and families to build harmony and health in their relationships. I specialize in sex therapy and am an effective life coach. I approach each person and family with attention to mental and physical health, with consideration to relational, social and spiritual influences.
We work to create new awareness, new knowledge and new possibilities. You can have an empowered family and a happy state of mind through therapy. I work with individuals and families to build harmony and health in their relationships. I specialize in sex therapy and am an effective life coach. I approach each person and family with attention to mental and physical health, with consideration to relational, social and spiritual influences.
(503) 405-4321 View (503) 405-4321
Photo of Dr. Marisol G Westberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oregon
Dr. Marisol G Westberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I am a board certified sexologist and a licensed couples therapist. I maintain a private practice with a focus on sex therapy in Portland, Oregon. I have been a therapist for 10 years. I am sex-positive and specialize in sex therapy that is inclusive of alternative relationships and erotic minorities. My areas of expertise are intimate relationships, pleasure, infidelity, sexual desire discrepancies, lack of desire, difficulties with orgasm, difficulties with erections and orgasm, pain and discomfort in sex, alternative sexualities and lifestyles, sexual abuse and violence. My approach in therapy is one that is positive, validating, and nurturing.
I am a board certified sexologist and a licensed couples therapist. I maintain a private practice with a focus on sex therapy in Portland, Oregon. I have been a therapist for 10 years. I am sex-positive and specialize in sex therapy that is inclusive of alternative relationships and erotic minorities. My areas of expertise are intimate relationships, pleasure, infidelity, sexual desire discrepancies, lack of desire, difficulties with orgasm, difficulties with erections and orgasm, pain and discomfort in sex, alternative sexualities and lifestyles, sexual abuse and violence. My approach in therapy is one that is positive, validating, and nurturing.
(971) 232-3136 View (971) 232-3136
Photo of Joshua Bytendorp, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Joshua Bytendorp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97266  (Online Only)
As a queer neurodivergent (autism/ADHD) sex therapist, I provide a unique experience for my clients to be able to work through issues around sex, sexuality, trauma, religious trauma, gender dysphoria and other mental health issues. I provide a safe nonjudgmental place for those who identify as queer, neurodivergent, kinky, ENM who wants a therapist who has extensive training and understanding of the issues that you face and deal with.
As a queer neurodivergent (autism/ADHD) sex therapist, I provide a unique experience for my clients to be able to work through issues around sex, sexuality, trauma, religious trauma, gender dysphoria and other mental health issues. I provide a safe nonjudgmental place for those who identify as queer, neurodivergent, kinky, ENM who wants a therapist who has extensive training and understanding of the issues that you face and deal with.
(503) 400-3683 View (503) 400-3683
Photo of Anissa Bahrenburg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oregon
Anissa Bahrenburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I am enrolled in an advanced certification program for Relationship and Sex Therapy at the Modern Sex Therapy Institute.
Hi, I'm Anissa, I'm a therapist and the founder of Carnelian Counseling, LLC. I'm excited to explore the work that we can do together. I am fortunate to do work that I love. Therapy is one of the greatest gifts that you can give yourself. It is an investment of time, money and most of all ENERGY in yourself. You are worth it and you can do the work! I offer Sex & Relationship Therapy as well as Clinical Supervision. I work from a trauma informed and strengths based perspective. I believe that you are resilient, strong and wise. I am present-focused and have a collaborative and direct approach.
I am enrolled in an advanced certification program for Relationship and Sex Therapy at the Modern Sex Therapy Institute.
Hi, I'm Anissa, I'm a therapist and the founder of Carnelian Counseling, LLC. I'm excited to explore the work that we can do together. I am fortunate to do work that I love. Therapy is one of the greatest gifts that you can give yourself. It is an investment of time, money and most of all ENERGY in yourself. You are worth it and you can do the work! I offer Sex & Relationship Therapy as well as Clinical Supervision. I work from a trauma informed and strengths based perspective. I believe that you are resilient, strong and wise. I am present-focused and have a collaborative and direct approach.
(503) 568-1201 View (503) 568-1201
Photo of Heidi Swartzmiller, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oregon
Heidi Swartzmiller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
I have a Master’s Degree in Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy from Lewis and Clark with a focus on International Families and Sex Therapy.
Welcome! I enjoy working with individuals and couples, and walking alongside them in their healing. I believe therapy is a collaborative experience between the family and therapist, that each client has the resiliency and resources they need already within, and that it is our job to uncover them. My work with clients considers biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing relational distress, sex concerns, infertility/pregnancy issues, transracial/transnational family dynamics, processing trauma, religion and spirituality, body-image concerns, or low self esteem.
I have a Master’s Degree in Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy from Lewis and Clark with a focus on International Families and Sex Therapy.
Welcome! I enjoy working with individuals and couples, and walking alongside them in their healing. I believe therapy is a collaborative experience between the family and therapist, that each client has the resiliency and resources they need already within, and that it is our job to uncover them. My work with clients considers biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing relational distress, sex concerns, infertility/pregnancy issues, transracial/transnational family dynamics, processing trauma, religion and spirituality, body-image concerns, or low self esteem.
(503) 966-8786 View (503) 966-8786
Photo of Helen Zwiebel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oregon
Helen Zwiebel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97236  (Online Only)
Specialties: Consensual/Ethical Non-Monogamy, Sex and Relationship Issues, BDSM/Kink, Body Positivity, Consent, Pain Management, and SPMI.
My private practice is focused on helping people curious about and/or practicing consensual/ethical non-monogamy, solo poly, relationship anarchy, and any alternative relationship style. I am BDSM/kink-aware and LGBTQIA+ friendly.
Specialties: Consensual/Ethical Non-Monogamy, Sex and Relationship Issues, BDSM/Kink, Body Positivity, Consent, Pain Management, and SPMI.
My private practice is focused on helping people curious about and/or practicing consensual/ethical non-monogamy, solo poly, relationship anarchy, and any alternative relationship style. I am BDSM/kink-aware and LGBTQIA+ friendly.
(503) 461-1541 View (503) 461-1541
Photo of Jane Guyn in Oregon
Jane Guyn
PhD, CPSC
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701
That's why I became a relationship and intimacy coach and got my PhD in Human Sexuality.
Almost all couples go through phases when they're not as intimate as they could be. I coach people to solve very simple problems so that they can connect and feel excited about their relationship again. It's tough to live without physical closeness, touch or connection. You want a passionate relationship - not just a functional but unsatisfying friendship. The problem is, when you think about your options it's hard to imagine anything that might help. You undoubtably feel hurt and misunderstood - even if your partner is a great person. You might be looking at the challenge of a breakup or divorce. Is it worth it to stay committed?
That's why I became a relationship and intimacy coach and got my PhD in Human Sexuality.
Almost all couples go through phases when they're not as intimate as they could be. I coach people to solve very simple problems so that they can connect and feel excited about their relationship again. It's tough to live without physical closeness, touch or connection. You want a passionate relationship - not just a functional but unsatisfying friendship. The problem is, when you think about your options it's hard to imagine anything that might help. You undoubtably feel hurt and misunderstood - even if your partner is a great person. You might be looking at the challenge of a breakup or divorce. Is it worth it to stay committed?
(541) 283-1972 View (541) 283-1972
Photo of Noble Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oregon
Noble Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97401
I have 15+ yrs experience in helping couples overcome conflict, young adults cope with life changes, individuals with anxiety, depression or ADHD, people overcome porn or sex addiction, and all people with sexual functioning concerns.
At some point in our lives, everyone gets stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior or interactions. At some point we all need help. There comes a time when we all need to look in the mirror and face it, change needs to happen. Thats where I come in. I'm here to help. I have a direct approach to therapy which tends to be supportive and caring yet proactive and goal oriented. This strengths based approach seems to really help people get "unstuck" and allows them to find new ways of approaching their concerns. I enjoy working with and getting to know all types of people. I work with individual adults, couples and families.
I have 15+ yrs experience in helping couples overcome conflict, young adults cope with life changes, individuals with anxiety, depression or ADHD, people overcome porn or sex addiction, and all people with sexual functioning concerns.
At some point in our lives, everyone gets stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior or interactions. At some point we all need help. There comes a time when we all need to look in the mirror and face it, change needs to happen. Thats where I come in. I'm here to help. I have a direct approach to therapy which tends to be supportive and caring yet proactive and goal oriented. This strengths based approach seems to really help people get "unstuck" and allows them to find new ways of approaching their concerns. I enjoy working with and getting to know all types of people. I work with individual adults, couples and families.
(541) 393-8766 View (541) 393-8766
Photo of Bridgetown Sex Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oregon
Bridgetown Sex Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Do you struggle with issues related to sex, sexuality, and gender identity? I have worked to specialize in these issues which are frequently considered taboo. I strive to provide a safe and accepting environment for my clients to discover more about their sexuality/gender identity, transform it into what they want, and affirm who they are. Finding someone you feel comfortable talking to is hard, so I hope to make it a little easier by offering a free consultation to make sure we are a good fit.
Do you struggle with issues related to sex, sexuality, and gender identity? I have worked to specialize in these issues which are frequently considered taboo. I strive to provide a safe and accepting environment for my clients to discover more about their sexuality/gender identity, transform it into what they want, and affirm who they are. Finding someone you feel comfortable talking to is hard, so I hope to make it a little easier by offering a free consultation to make sure we are a good fit.
(503) 893-8879 View (503) 893-8879
Photo of Sarah Beaulieu, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oregon
Sarah Beaulieu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Feel empowered in your sexuality & intuition, develop compassion & flexibility with yourself, resolve inner conflict, and change destructive behavior.
While I may have a waitlist, please don't hesitate to reach out! I hold high value in your journey and acknowledge that healing isn’t linear. The human experience is complex, and my goal is to create a space that allows you to explore your story. Maybe your pain comes from childhood trauma, family or social stressors, work pressure, partner wounding in relationships, or a specific incident impacting your life right now. Together, we will unpack intergenerational legacies passed through family that impact intimacy, closeness, and how you relate to those around you.
Feel empowered in your sexuality & intuition, develop compassion & flexibility with yourself, resolve inner conflict, and change destructive behavior.
While I may have a waitlist, please don't hesitate to reach out! I hold high value in your journey and acknowledge that healing isn’t linear. The human experience is complex, and my goal is to create a space that allows you to explore your story. Maybe your pain comes from childhood trauma, family or social stressors, work pressure, partner wounding in relationships, or a specific incident impacting your life right now. Together, we will unpack intergenerational legacies passed through family that impact intimacy, closeness, and how you relate to those around you.
(503) 783-8481 View (503) 783-8481
Photo of Melissa Bradfield, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oregon
Melissa Bradfield
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97401  (Online Only)
You want to enjoy sex, you want more sex, you want to feel like your relationship has purpose! You want to know without question that you matter, and you want your partner to know they matter.
That feeling you get when you can’t remember the last time you felt an intimate connection with your partner; it’s deep and it’s painful. Lying in bed, crying yourself to sleep as quietly as you can just hoping your partner reaches their hand out to hold you. You’re stuck swimming in your head about how this happened, and constantly trying to figure out if it’s you or if it’s them. Either way, it’s terrifying to think you may never feel that kind of connection again, no matter how or why. All you know for sure is you so desperately want it to change.
You want to enjoy sex, you want more sex, you want to feel like your relationship has purpose! You want to know without question that you matter, and you want your partner to know they matter.
That feeling you get when you can’t remember the last time you felt an intimate connection with your partner; it’s deep and it’s painful. Lying in bed, crying yourself to sleep as quietly as you can just hoping your partner reaches their hand out to hold you. You’re stuck swimming in your head about how this happened, and constantly trying to figure out if it’s you or if it’s them. Either way, it’s terrifying to think you may never feel that kind of connection again, no matter how or why. All you know for sure is you so desperately want it to change.
(503) 406-4225 View (503) 406-4225
Photo of Dr. Tom Murray. Your Sex And Relationship Therapist., Marriage & Family Therapist in Oregon
Dr. Tom Murray. Your Sex And Relationship Therapist.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301  (Online Only)
With my brief-oriented approach, backed by the science of what works in sex therapy and couples counseling, you'll gain clarity, break old patterns, tackle mind-chatter, and experience satisfying sex and intimacy.
Should I stay or should I go? A huge question that's weighed on you. It keeps you up at night, stressing you out. Life would be so much easier if your relationship wasn't so hard. You wish you could communicate better; feel understood. But, damn, your shit and their shit get in the way. Not to mention the pressures of career, aging parents, or demanding children. It all gets thrown in the mix, leaving you exhausted, distracted, and disenchanted by the status quo. You want things to change (better sex, intimacy, connection); you're finally ready to take charge of your life in a new and meaningful way. You've come to the right place!
With my brief-oriented approach, backed by the science of what works in sex therapy and couples counseling, you'll gain clarity, break old patterns, tackle mind-chatter, and experience satisfying sex and intimacy.
Should I stay or should I go? A huge question that's weighed on you. It keeps you up at night, stressing you out. Life would be so much easier if your relationship wasn't so hard. You wish you could communicate better; feel understood. But, damn, your shit and their shit get in the way. Not to mention the pressures of career, aging parents, or demanding children. It all gets thrown in the mix, leaving you exhausted, distracted, and disenchanted by the status quo. You want things to change (better sex, intimacy, connection); you're finally ready to take charge of your life in a new and meaningful way. You've come to the right place!
(971) 273-5215 View (971) 273-5215
Photo of Melika Biglarpour-Watson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oregon
Melika Biglarpour-Watson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilsonville, OR 97070  (Online Only)
Are you grappling with anxiety, life transitions, adversities, or grief? Are you navigating challenges related to sexuality, sexual issues, relational issues, or difficulties in communication? Do you find yourself feeling stuck, lost, or discouraged due to experiences of trauma or family-related issues? Whether you're an individual or part of a couple, I provide support to adults from all backgrounds. I work collaboratively with you, meeting you where you are at & drawing upon tools from my training. I create a safe, judgment-free space to foster connection & growth.
Are you grappling with anxiety, life transitions, adversities, or grief? Are you navigating challenges related to sexuality, sexual issues, relational issues, or difficulties in communication? Do you find yourself feeling stuck, lost, or discouraged due to experiences of trauma or family-related issues? Whether you're an individual or part of a couple, I provide support to adults from all backgrounds. I work collaboratively with you, meeting you where you are at & drawing upon tools from my training. I create a safe, judgment-free space to foster connection & growth.
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Photo of Gary Neil Reiss, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oregon
Gary Neil Reiss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, , LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
My specialties include working with body symptoms; dreams; couples and family issues; sex therapy and intimacy work; trauma personal and collective; and working with money issues.
I work with a wide range of people. My clients like deep work, As a Process Oriented therapist and teacher I use dreamwork, symptoms work, bodywork, movement, relationship work, conflict work, inner work and meditation, art and creativity, and many other methods based on the individuals client's process. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I have helped develop Process Oriented family therapy; Process Oriented sex and intimacy work; Process Oriented personal and historical trauma work; Process oriented coma and brain injury work, I have written 11 books on these topics. My work integrates mind body and spirit.
My specialties include working with body symptoms; dreams; couples and family issues; sex therapy and intimacy work; trauma personal and collective; and working with money issues.
I work with a wide range of people. My clients like deep work, As a Process Oriented therapist and teacher I use dreamwork, symptoms work, bodywork, movement, relationship work, conflict work, inner work and meditation, art and creativity, and many other methods based on the individuals client's process. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I have helped develop Process Oriented family therapy; Process Oriented sex and intimacy work; Process Oriented personal and historical trauma work; Process oriented coma and brain injury work, I have written 11 books on these topics. My work integrates mind body and spirit.
(458) 218-8186 View (458) 218-8186

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.