Photo of Dr. Tom Murray Sex And Relationship Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Dr. Tom Murray Sex And Relationship Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, SexTher, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15208  (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!
(412) 385-4862 View (412) 385-4862
Photo of Calm Pittsburgh in Pittsburgh, PA
Calm Pittsburgh
LPC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
Our therapists employ eclectic, evidence-based techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-focused Therapy, Mindfulness, Narrative Therapy, Sex Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Therapy.
Your life is complex and unique. The quality of your relationships, work, family, health, and stresses can affect your most authentic and calm state. Let us be your allies! We'd love to peacefully assist you as you navigate the changes and challenges life can bring. Calm believes in making complex issues accessible while maintaining an affirming environment that recognizes and respects each person's unique experiences. We also proudly offer a comprehensive suite of sexuality counseling, education, supervision, and consulting services designed to provide expert guidance and promote the well-being of individuals and communities.
Our therapists employ eclectic, evidence-based techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-focused Therapy, Mindfulness, Narrative Therapy, Sex Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Therapy.
Your life is complex and unique. The quality of your relationships, work, family, health, and stresses can affect your most authentic and calm state. Let us be your allies! We'd love to peacefully assist you as you navigate the changes and challenges life can bring. Calm believes in making complex issues accessible while maintaining an affirming environment that recognizes and respects each person's unique experiences. We also proudly offer a comprehensive suite of sexuality counseling, education, supervision, and consulting services designed to provide expert guidance and promote the well-being of individuals and communities.
(412) 857-3717 View (412) 857-3717
Photo of Christina Pust, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Christina Pust
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15122  (Online Only)
I am a queer AASECT pre-certified sex therapist, who has both professional and lived experience in treating those who identify as LGBTQIA2S+ and/or those living within alternative relationship structures (ENM, Polyamory, BDSM/kink power dynamics).
I am licensed professional counselor who has 7 years experience working with individuals navigating emotional distress, trauma, anxiety, depression, difficult life changes, and those desiring self improvement. As a therapist, I strive to create a safe non-judgemental space for clients to increase self awareness/self acceptance, identify and manage healthy boundaries, manage difficult emotions, improve connections with self and others, and to embrace vulnerability and the courage that comes with it.
I am a queer AASECT pre-certified sex therapist, who has both professional and lived experience in treating those who identify as LGBTQIA2S+ and/or those living within alternative relationship structures (ENM, Polyamory, BDSM/kink power dynamics).
I am licensed professional counselor who has 7 years experience working with individuals navigating emotional distress, trauma, anxiety, depression, difficult life changes, and those desiring self improvement. As a therapist, I strive to create a safe non-judgemental space for clients to increase self awareness/self acceptance, identify and manage healthy boundaries, manage difficult emotions, improve connections with self and others, and to embrace vulnerability and the courage that comes with it.
(724) 573-3657 View (724) 573-3657
Photo of David Prybock, Psychologist in Pittsburgh, PA
David Prybock
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
My areas of specialization include: Anger Management,Anxiety/Stress, Depression,Eating Disorders, Grief/Loss, Life Transition, Men's Issues, Pain Management, Relationships/Trust Issues, Self-Esteem/Shame Issues, Self Improvement, Sexual Issues, including Sex Addiction, Substance Abuse Issues, Trauma and Trauma-Related Issues, and Weight Management.
Do you want to improve your relationship, have less stress, or simply gain insight about yourself so that you can be happier and live a more fulfilling life? Change is difficult, especially when we try to do it alone. I am a Licensed Psychologist who offers individual and group therapy that are designed to help you be happier. My aim is to provide you with the knowledge and skills that will help you achieve change. Working together, we will utilize the strengths you already have and target those aspects of yourself that you want to change the most.
My areas of specialization include: Anger Management,Anxiety/Stress, Depression,Eating Disorders, Grief/Loss, Life Transition, Men's Issues, Pain Management, Relationships/Trust Issues, Self-Esteem/Shame Issues, Self Improvement, Sexual Issues, including Sex Addiction, Substance Abuse Issues, Trauma and Trauma-Related Issues, and Weight Management.
Do you want to improve your relationship, have less stress, or simply gain insight about yourself so that you can be happier and live a more fulfilling life? Change is difficult, especially when we try to do it alone. I am a Licensed Psychologist who offers individual and group therapy that are designed to help you be happier. My aim is to provide you with the knowledge and skills that will help you achieve change. Working together, we will utilize the strengths you already have and target those aspects of yourself that you want to change the most.
(412) 228-0094 View (412) 228-0094
Photo of Celeste DiTroia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Celeste DiTroia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15212  (Online Only)
D candidate for Clinical sexuality with over 10 years’ experience therapizing folks.
Greetings and salutations, I am Celeste! Are you looking for a space to truly be heard? A safe environment with another human who will not only listen, but empower, and challenge you? Are you struggling with your sexuality? Experiencing anxiety because the world is crazy and adulting is HARD? Does coping with day-to-day things seem like an insurmountable task that you’d rather put off for (yet) another day? How about relationships? Have they been increasingly confusing, or do you find yourself struggling with communication? Well, you are in luck because supporting people with these challenges is what I am all about.
D candidate for Clinical sexuality with over 10 years’ experience therapizing folks.
Greetings and salutations, I am Celeste! Are you looking for a space to truly be heard? A safe environment with another human who will not only listen, but empower, and challenge you? Are you struggling with your sexuality? Experiencing anxiety because the world is crazy and adulting is HARD? Does coping with day-to-day things seem like an insurmountable task that you’d rather put off for (yet) another day? How about relationships? Have they been increasingly confusing, or do you find yourself struggling with communication? Well, you are in luck because supporting people with these challenges is what I am all about.
(808) 207-6499 View (808) 207-6499
Photo of James Wadley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
James Wadley
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CSTS, IMHF
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
As a couples and sexuality therapist as well as an addictions specialist (e.
Do you have trust issues in your relationship? Are you afraid to be honest with your partner or tired of trying to be someone you're not? Neither you or your partner are really talking about your hurt or resentments over pornography and infidelity. You've tried over and over again and the current situation isn't working for you and/or your relationship. Contact me and we will talk about how you feel about your challenges and together come up with a behavioral and emotional strategy for you to move forward! By the end of our FIRST session, you will be given therapeutic goals that you and I will work on.
As a couples and sexuality therapist as well as an addictions specialist (e.
Do you have trust issues in your relationship? Are you afraid to be honest with your partner or tired of trying to be someone you're not? Neither you or your partner are really talking about your hurt or resentments over pornography and infidelity. You've tried over and over again and the current situation isn't working for you and/or your relationship. Contact me and we will talk about how you feel about your challenges and together come up with a behavioral and emotional strategy for you to move forward! By the end of our FIRST session, you will be given therapeutic goals that you and I will work on.
(267) 888-4202 View (267) 888-4202
Photo of Thrive Counseling Center LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Thrive Counseling Center LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
Our lives tend to be multi-faceted works of art, made up of many roles, relationships, and responsibilities. Oftentimes, we are able to adapt to changes in these roles and responsibilities with little or no difficulty; however there are times in our lives when change can cause distraction, negative feelings, and overall dissatisfaction with our lives. These times are when we can be empowered to discover our true authentic lives, within ourselves and our relationships, by engaging in therapy. During sessions, we will explore ineffective behavior patterns and perceptions to move forward into a better state of mind and lead a more fulfilling life.
Our lives tend to be multi-faceted works of art, made up of many roles, relationships, and responsibilities. Oftentimes, we are able to adapt to changes in these roles and responsibilities with little or no difficulty; however there are times in our lives when change can cause distraction, negative feelings, and overall dissatisfaction with our lives. These times are when we can be empowered to discover our true authentic lives, within ourselves and our relationships, by engaging in therapy. During sessions, we will explore ineffective behavior patterns and perceptions to move forward into a better state of mind and lead a more fulfilling life.
(412) 301-9949 View (412) 301-9949
Photo of Tori Romberger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Tori Romberger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15222  (Online Only)
You might be struggling with trauma, PTSD, or anxiety. Your mental health is important, and I'm here to support your journey. You are seeking relief from emotional burdens, and my goal is to provide a safe space for healing and growth. Let's work together to achieve the emotional health you desire.
You might be struggling with trauma, PTSD, or anxiety. Your mental health is important, and I'm here to support your journey. You are seeking relief from emotional burdens, and my goal is to provide a safe space for healing and growth. Let's work together to achieve the emotional health you desire.
(412) 455-8400 View (412) 455-8400
Photo of Jordan Stash, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Jordan Stash
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
Jordan Stash is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 3 years of experience in the mental health field. He has experience working with all age groups, including children, adolescents, young adults, and adults. He strives to assist his clients in a variety of ways, helping them navigate through difficult times, processing emotions, and more. He specializes in several areas including depression, anxiety, gender identity, sexual orientation, LGBTQIA+ issues, and child therapy.
Jordan Stash is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 3 years of experience in the mental health field. He has experience working with all age groups, including children, adolescents, young adults, and adults. He strives to assist his clients in a variety of ways, helping them navigate through difficult times, processing emotions, and more. He specializes in several areas including depression, anxiety, gender identity, sexual orientation, LGBTQIA+ issues, and child therapy.
(412) 896-7554 View (412) 896-7554
Photo of Maria Del Toro, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Maria Del Toro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15219  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Currently offering only daytime availability! Majority of my experience focuses on relational trauma, ADHD, communication skills, boundary setting, exploring/understanding historical trauma, couples counseling, first gen struggles/challenges, assisting Latinx clients with cultural issues, addiction challenges, BPIOC support, Neurodivergent support, life transitions, and reproductive mental health.
Currently offering only daytime availability! Majority of my experience focuses on relational trauma, ADHD, communication skills, boundary setting, exploring/understanding historical trauma, couples counseling, first gen struggles/challenges, assisting Latinx clients with cultural issues, addiction challenges, BPIOC support, Neurodivergent support, life transitions, and reproductive mental health.
(724) 860-3340 View (724) 860-3340
Photo of Molly Gorzelsky, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Molly Gorzelsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15220  (Online Only)
My goal is for you to feel like you can be open & honest without fear of being judged, so that we may process your issues safely in a welcoming, empathetic, & accepting environment. Counseling with me is very collaborative and integrative. I am looking to work with people who want to make changes in their lives but need some guidance. In therapy we can explore how your experiences, relationships, thoughts, & feelings are impacting your daily functioning. I like honest communication about what you are or aren't getting out of therapy so we can address your needs & be sure we are meeting expectations.
My goal is for you to feel like you can be open & honest without fear of being judged, so that we may process your issues safely in a welcoming, empathetic, & accepting environment. Counseling with me is very collaborative and integrative. I am looking to work with people who want to make changes in their lives but need some guidance. In therapy we can explore how your experiences, relationships, thoughts, & feelings are impacting your daily functioning. I like honest communication about what you are or aren't getting out of therapy so we can address your needs & be sure we are meeting expectations.
(412) 324-7353 View (412) 324-7353
Photo of Jayson Zammerilli, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Jayson Zammerilli
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome to my virtual therapy practice. I understand that seeking therapy can be a significant step towards personal growth and well-being, and I commend you for taking this brave decision. My name is Jayson, and as a therapist, my goal is to provide you with a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Therapy is a collaborative journey, and I believe in the power of building a trusting therapeutic relationship with my clients. Together, we will work towards gaining insight, discovering new perspectives, and developing effective coping strategies to navigate life's challenges.
Welcome to my virtual therapy practice. I understand that seeking therapy can be a significant step towards personal growth and well-being, and I commend you for taking this brave decision. My name is Jayson, and as a therapist, my goal is to provide you with a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Therapy is a collaborative journey, and I believe in the power of building a trusting therapeutic relationship with my clients. Together, we will work towards gaining insight, discovering new perspectives, and developing effective coping strategies to navigate life's challenges.
(412) 998-7855 View (412) 998-7855
Photo of Isaly Counseling Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Isaly Counseling Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LPC, RN, AT, CAADC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
ICA is a group of dedicated mental and behavioral health professions who offer counseling and substance abuse services to adults, children, couples, and families in a supportive environment. Our providers are highly qualified and experienced professionals who treat each client with compassion, dignity, and respect while helping each to work through areas of concern. We believe that help begins with a strong therapist/client relationship in order to achieve long-term results and as such, each approach is personalized and tailored to the specific need of the client. We have an additional office in Swissvale at 2033 Noble St.
ICA is a group of dedicated mental and behavioral health professions who offer counseling and substance abuse services to adults, children, couples, and families in a supportive environment. Our providers are highly qualified and experienced professionals who treat each client with compassion, dignity, and respect while helping each to work through areas of concern. We believe that help begins with a strong therapist/client relationship in order to achieve long-term results and as such, each approach is personalized and tailored to the specific need of the client. We have an additional office in Swissvale at 2033 Noble St.
(412) 369-4285 View (412) 369-4285
Photo of Sheri Robinson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Sheri Robinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235
Waitlist for new clients
Kairos Ascending Therapeutic Services engages in the art of Holistic Therapy to help individuals reach their wellness goals. Through Kairos Ascending individuals are empowered to work towards self-actualization where One can Ascend into a strong sense of purpose to achieve personal fulfillment.
Kairos Ascending Therapeutic Services engages in the art of Holistic Therapy to help individuals reach their wellness goals. Through Kairos Ascending individuals are empowered to work towards self-actualization where One can Ascend into a strong sense of purpose to achieve personal fulfillment.
(412) 274-5728 View (412) 274-5728
Photo of Courtney Elizabeth Fritsch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Courtney Elizabeth Fritsch
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15122  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Courtney and welcome to Cornerstone Wellness! My counseling style is direct, warm, and solution focused. I work with individuals, couples and young adults who might be struggling with anxiety, relationship challenges, trauma, and life transitions. I strive to create an authentic connection with my clients, so they have a positive and rewarding counseling experience. I make every effort to provide a personalized experience for everyone to explore self-actualization and increase overall internal peace and wellness.
Hi, I'm Courtney and welcome to Cornerstone Wellness! My counseling style is direct, warm, and solution focused. I work with individuals, couples and young adults who might be struggling with anxiety, relationship challenges, trauma, and life transitions. I strive to create an authentic connection with my clients, so they have a positive and rewarding counseling experience. I make every effort to provide a personalized experience for everyone to explore self-actualization and increase overall internal peace and wellness.
(724) 200-8736 View (724) 200-8736
Photo of New Leaf Counseling, Consulting, Etc, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
New Leaf Counseling, Consulting, Etc, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Through seasons of life we face many challenges, concerns, and difficulties which leave an impact on our hearts, minds, and bodies. Getting to know you, and healing is our first priority. Exploration and growth to the spaces you aspire is the next. While we all have an origin story, you are our ideal client. Our steps will setup a safe and secure atmosphere using a balance of empathy and vulnerability to aid introspection. And while we explore fit, we are very open to coordination of care, or referral to a provider you feel is your best fit. You are are priority. And your life satisfaction is our goal. Privacy and respect prioritied
Through seasons of life we face many challenges, concerns, and difficulties which leave an impact on our hearts, minds, and bodies. Getting to know you, and healing is our first priority. Exploration and growth to the spaces you aspire is the next. While we all have an origin story, you are our ideal client. Our steps will setup a safe and secure atmosphere using a balance of empathy and vulnerability to aid introspection. And while we explore fit, we are very open to coordination of care, or referral to a provider you feel is your best fit. You are are priority. And your life satisfaction is our goal. Privacy and respect prioritied
(412) 844-4394 View (412) 844-4394
Photo of Coreen Payne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Coreen Payne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15220  (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Coreen! Are you struggling to manage stress? Are your relationships suffering? Do you feel disconnected from yourself? I will help you explore your core identity and values as you work toward building the life you want. Together we will determine what is and is not working for you - mind, body, and spirit. We will also work on building new skills along the way.
Hi there, I'm Coreen! Are you struggling to manage stress? Are your relationships suffering? Do you feel disconnected from yourself? I will help you explore your core identity and values as you work toward building the life you want. Together we will determine what is and is not working for you - mind, body, and spirit. We will also work on building new skills along the way.
(484) 559-5805 View (484) 559-5805
Photo of Jessica Ellingsworth, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Jessica Ellingsworth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSP, MCLC, CFM
Not Verified Not Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15122  (Online Only)
Offering individual & couple coaching for adults struggling with life and relationship unmanageable stress. Relationship Reboot: Do You Feel Like You’re Fighting About the Same Things in Your Relationship? Some couples feel like the good times are fantastic, but the bad times are a disaster. They quickly feel triggered due to built-up resentment. The romance and connection can fade over time and be replaced with frustration and distance. Many couples face challenges communicating effectively. Some may feel betrayed or lose trust in their partner. I provide an open safe space to get to the root of chronic gridlock problems.
Offering individual & couple coaching for adults struggling with life and relationship unmanageable stress. Relationship Reboot: Do You Feel Like You’re Fighting About the Same Things in Your Relationship? Some couples feel like the good times are fantastic, but the bad times are a disaster. They quickly feel triggered due to built-up resentment. The romance and connection can fade over time and be replaced with frustration and distance. Many couples face challenges communicating effectively. Some may feel betrayed or lose trust in their partner. I provide an open safe space to get to the root of chronic gridlock problems.
(220) 270-9366 View (220) 270-9366
Photo of Dana L. Kirkpatrick, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Dana L. Kirkpatrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CST, CSTS
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
Not accepting new clients
As a Certified Sex Therapist and Sex Therapy Supervisor, as well as a Breast Cancer survivor, I operate from an empathetic and holistic perspective.
******Hello, I am currently not taking any new clients at this time.*******Create the life you want -- let me be your ally. I aim to encourage anyone seeking mental health support to consider therapy. Those looking to make positive changes or better manage life's complexities will benefit from introspection and insight through therapeutic guidance. My clients tend to be busy professionals, often navigating both internal and/or external challenges. I aim to offer goal-oriented, open minded mental health support for those dealing with complex issues and stresses of all kinds.
As a Certified Sex Therapist and Sex Therapy Supervisor, as well as a Breast Cancer survivor, I operate from an empathetic and holistic perspective.
******Hello, I am currently not taking any new clients at this time.*******Create the life you want -- let me be your ally. I aim to encourage anyone seeking mental health support to consider therapy. Those looking to make positive changes or better manage life's complexities will benefit from introspection and insight through therapeutic guidance. My clients tend to be busy professionals, often navigating both internal and/or external challenges. I aim to offer goal-oriented, open minded mental health support for those dealing with complex issues and stresses of all kinds.
(412) 857-3717 View (412) 857-3717

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jenny McClarren, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Jenny McClarren
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bridgeville, PA 15017
Accepting new patients as of 01/2024! Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsatisfied? Perhaps you are ready to make changes in your life, seeking a new direction, or are ready to embark on a new journey. Whether you are grieving a loss, experiencing the effects of traumatic events, or have been exposed to conflicts in your relationships, I want to hear your story. I welcome you to bring your grief, infidelity, and questions or concerns surrounding sex and relationships into our space. Together we can build a collaborative relationship that will inspire you to take control of your story and empower you to narrate your future.
Accepting new patients as of 01/2024! Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsatisfied? Perhaps you are ready to make changes in your life, seeking a new direction, or are ready to embark on a new journey. Whether you are grieving a loss, experiencing the effects of traumatic events, or have been exposed to conflicts in your relationships, I want to hear your story. I welcome you to bring your grief, infidelity, and questions or concerns surrounding sex and relationships into our space. Together we can build a collaborative relationship that will inspire you to take control of your story and empower you to narrate your future.
(724) 202-0617 View (724) 202-0617
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.