Photo of Spencer Wallis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Spencer Wallis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
Waitlist for new clients
I work with couples and individuals who wish to address emotional, relational, and identity conflict. This involves tailoring my treatment approach to the unique needs of each client. In my couple and family work, I aim to nurture clients' skills related to intimacy, shared understanding, communication, and connectedness, while respecting each partner's need for independent growth. I believe in the healing power of human connection, and that this bond can be a path to fulfillment and meaning in everyday life. My work with individuals addresses issues related to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, sexuality, dating, and career.
I work with couples and individuals who wish to address emotional, relational, and identity conflict. This involves tailoring my treatment approach to the unique needs of each client. In my couple and family work, I aim to nurture clients' skills related to intimacy, shared understanding, communication, and connectedness, while respecting each partner's need for independent growth. I believe in the healing power of human connection, and that this bond can be a path to fulfillment and meaning in everyday life. My work with individuals addresses issues related to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, sexuality, dating, and career.
(253) 509-7168 View (253) 509-7168
Photo of Xuan Ho, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Xuan Ho
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98118  (Online Only)
Changes in relationships and life circumstances can bring about challenging feelings. I see folx for individual, couples, and sex therapy to help people navigate: high couples conflict, communication issues, trauma, anxiety, avoidance, trust issues, shame, infidelity/betrayal, desire discrepancy, erectile dysfunction, sexual avoidance and more. My clients usually begin therapy feeling stuck and fed up of where they are and are looking to learn, change, and transition to a place where they are satisfied in their relationships and have greater clarity, confidence, and peace within themselves.
Changes in relationships and life circumstances can bring about challenging feelings. I see folx for individual, couples, and sex therapy to help people navigate: high couples conflict, communication issues, trauma, anxiety, avoidance, trust issues, shame, infidelity/betrayal, desire discrepancy, erectile dysfunction, sexual avoidance and more. My clients usually begin therapy feeling stuck and fed up of where they are and are looking to learn, change, and transition to a place where they are satisfied in their relationships and have greater clarity, confidence, and peace within themselves.
(206) 681-2164 View (206) 681-2164
Photo of Dominique Washington, Pre-Licensed Professional in Seattle, WA
Dominique Washington
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LMFTA, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98118  (Online Only)
It is a passion of mine to explore gender, sexuality, relationships, and interpersonal factors impacting sexual satisfaction with my clients.
Sometimes, we simply need someone to hold space for us, someone to offer a safe, non-judgmental, accepting environment to feel heard and seen. Therapy is a time for just that: a time to explore yourself and to create self-awareness of your cognitions and social systems in ways that impact your feelings and behaviors. Therapy is a journey, a commitment to whole person healing for lasting change. I believe that clients have the power to reclaim their stories, as the experts of their own lives. I am committed to working with you to explore what might be keeping you from living and loving authentically.
It is a passion of mine to explore gender, sexuality, relationships, and interpersonal factors impacting sexual satisfaction with my clients.
Sometimes, we simply need someone to hold space for us, someone to offer a safe, non-judgmental, accepting environment to feel heard and seen. Therapy is a time for just that: a time to explore yourself and to create self-awareness of your cognitions and social systems in ways that impact your feelings and behaviors. Therapy is a journey, a commitment to whole person healing for lasting change. I believe that clients have the power to reclaim their stories, as the experts of their own lives. I am committed to working with you to explore what might be keeping you from living and loving authentically.
(425) 437-2034 View (425) 437-2034
Photo of Nicole Firestone, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Seattle, WA
Nicole Firestone
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105  (Online Only)
As a therapist, my goal is to help people feel understood when struggling with issues ranging from communication and connection and intimacy and sexuality. My approach is warm, interactive and direct, guiding you on your journey toward self-awareness and fulfillment. I enjoy working with clients who are undergoing life transitions that impact their relationships, self-esteem and are motivated to change. Sex therapy is a safe place to talk about intimacy issues. Some issues could be premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, female/male low libido, sexual pain problems, and anorgasmia.
As a therapist, my goal is to help people feel understood when struggling with issues ranging from communication and connection and intimacy and sexuality. My approach is warm, interactive and direct, guiding you on your journey toward self-awareness and fulfillment. I enjoy working with clients who are undergoing life transitions that impact their relationships, self-esteem and are motivated to change. Sex therapy is a safe place to talk about intimacy issues. Some issues could be premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, female/male low libido, sexual pain problems, and anorgasmia.
(206) 558-9391 View (206) 558-9391
Photo of Kez Mayers, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Kez Mayers
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
Do you struggle to feel arousal or pleasure during sex? Have you lost the sexual spark and excitement in your relationship? Do you struggle with desires, thoughts, and behaviors that you feel as though you can’t share with others for fear of shame, stigma, ignorance, or violence? Have you struggled to understand yourself as a sexual being due to stigmatizing beliefs and messages? Navigating the nuances of relationships, sex, sexual health, sexual identity, and gender identity can be difficult and exhausting on its own. Through open-minded, compassionate, and culturally competent care, I am committed to help you meet your goals.
Do you struggle to feel arousal or pleasure during sex? Have you lost the sexual spark and excitement in your relationship? Do you struggle with desires, thoughts, and behaviors that you feel as though you can’t share with others for fear of shame, stigma, ignorance, or violence? Have you struggled to understand yourself as a sexual being due to stigmatizing beliefs and messages? Navigating the nuances of relationships, sex, sexual health, sexual identity, and gender identity can be difficult and exhausting on its own. Through open-minded, compassionate, and culturally competent care, I am committed to help you meet your goals.
(509) 260-7218 View (509) 260-7218
Photo of Dr. Taylor Nolan, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Dr. Taylor Nolan
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98178  (Online Only)
We'll likely touch on vulnerability, shame, sex, relationships, grief, acceptance, your inner child, and self-compassion.
Have you found yourself, and your partner(s), wanting some extra support? Needing to reflect on and better understand your relationships, with both yourself and the people in your life? I provide a safe place for you, and your partner(s), to talk through life's problems. I offer the support, understanding, and objectivity that most friends and family cannot. Some words clients have used to describe their experience, our work together, and my approach include: relatable, honest with humor, collaborative, supportive, and conversational.
We'll likely touch on vulnerability, shame, sex, relationships, grief, acceptance, your inner child, and self-compassion.
Have you found yourself, and your partner(s), wanting some extra support? Needing to reflect on and better understand your relationships, with both yourself and the people in your life? I provide a safe place for you, and your partner(s), to talk through life's problems. I offer the support, understanding, and objectivity that most friends and family cannot. Some words clients have used to describe their experience, our work together, and my approach include: relatable, honest with humor, collaborative, supportive, and conversational.
(206) 593-3795 View (206) 593-3795
Photo of Wendy L Olsen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Wendy L Olsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
Sex therapy can be intimidating.
Accepting New Clients: In my work with clients, the major areas of focus include: issues with relationship conflict, sexual compatibility, infidelity and intimacy. Whether as a couple or as an individual, I work with people to resolve on-going concerns. In my practice, all couples/individuals are welcome regardless of race, religion or sexual orientation. It is my belief that compassion and humor are agents of change and healing. I offer a safe and comfortable place for my clients to explore new ways of working on current or on-going problems.
Sex therapy can be intimidating.
Accepting New Clients: In my work with clients, the major areas of focus include: issues with relationship conflict, sexual compatibility, infidelity and intimacy. Whether as a couple or as an individual, I work with people to resolve on-going concerns. In my practice, all couples/individuals are welcome regardless of race, religion or sexual orientation. It is my belief that compassion and humor are agents of change and healing. I offer a safe and comfortable place for my clients to explore new ways of working on current or on-going problems.
(206) 557-3850 View (206) 557-3850
Photo of Kali Shilvock, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Seattle, WA
Kali Shilvock
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
I work with both individuals and relationship units on issues and concerns related to anxiety/depression, relationship communication and skill-building, sex and sexuality, trauma/PTSD, and self-regulation.
I believe that one of the greatest ways that we can empower ourselves to navigate a wide variety of issues is by developing self-awareness and self-compassion. I enjoy working with clients who want a collaborative relationship with their therapist and are willing to approach our work with curiosity and an open mind. I also love to empower individuals and partners with the tools they need to create the changes they seek in their own lives, which requires a mutual investment in and commitment to our work together.
I work with both individuals and relationship units on issues and concerns related to anxiety/depression, relationship communication and skill-building, sex and sexuality, trauma/PTSD, and self-regulation.
I believe that one of the greatest ways that we can empower ourselves to navigate a wide variety of issues is by developing self-awareness and self-compassion. I enjoy working with clients who want a collaborative relationship with their therapist and are willing to approach our work with curiosity and an open mind. I also love to empower individuals and partners with the tools they need to create the changes they seek in their own lives, which requires a mutual investment in and commitment to our work together.
(206) 944-3698 View (206) 944-3698
Photo of Bailey D S Cheshire, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Seattle, WA
Bailey D S Cheshire
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
I know that reaching out for therapy can be so intimidating, especially with issues related to sexuality. You may be looking to step into a more authentic versions of yourself or you may be dealing with relationship struggles. You may have felt stuck for some time or are just beginning to question what doesn't feel right. Together, we can embrace the challenges of life's struggles and work towards your dreams and goals. I am an identity affirming therapist who especially loves working with people who are queer, BIPOC, neurodivergent, disabled, or somehow 'othered' by society.
I know that reaching out for therapy can be so intimidating, especially with issues related to sexuality. You may be looking to step into a more authentic versions of yourself or you may be dealing with relationship struggles. You may have felt stuck for some time or are just beginning to question what doesn't feel right. Together, we can embrace the challenges of life's struggles and work towards your dreams and goals. I am an identity affirming therapist who especially loves working with people who are queer, BIPOC, neurodivergent, disabled, or somehow 'othered' by society.
(206) 752-3683 View (206) 752-3683
Photo of Diana Wiley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Diana Wiley
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98121  (Online Only)
With 40 years of experience as a sex therapist, I help couples and individuals with a variety of sexual problems and relationship issues. Clients describe me as warm and caring, and I take pride in my results-oriented and sex-positive approach to helping people deal with this most intimate area of our lives. I will give you accurate information, share practical techniques, and explore the relationship dynamics or psychological factors that may be keeping you from enjoying a healthy, pleasurable sex life. My goal is to help you resolve your sexual problems and reclaim more of the joy and fun of sex.
With 40 years of experience as a sex therapist, I help couples and individuals with a variety of sexual problems and relationship issues. Clients describe me as warm and caring, and I take pride in my results-oriented and sex-positive approach to helping people deal with this most intimate area of our lives. I will give you accurate information, share practical techniques, and explore the relationship dynamics or psychological factors that may be keeping you from enjoying a healthy, pleasurable sex life. My goal is to help you resolve your sexual problems and reclaim more of the joy and fun of sex.
(206) 855-5893 View (206) 855-5893
Photo of Andrea Battiola, Licensed Professional Counselor in Seattle, WA
Andrea Battiola
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
Sex is an area of life that can both impact and be impacted by everything else in life. Yet we often feel so alone in our sexual lives with very few places and people to turn for help. It is for exactly that reason that I was driven to be a sex therapist and open Peak Couples & Sex Therapy, a group psychotherapy practice. Our sexual selves matter. Our sexual needs, wants, fears and struggles all matter. I want to create the space for others that my younger self deserved to have when she was growing up, trying to understand how sex and relationships impacted her confidence, identity, values and needs.
Sex is an area of life that can both impact and be impacted by everything else in life. Yet we often feel so alone in our sexual lives with very few places and people to turn for help. It is for exactly that reason that I was driven to be a sex therapist and open Peak Couples & Sex Therapy, a group psychotherapy practice. Our sexual selves matter. Our sexual needs, wants, fears and struggles all matter. I want to create the space for others that my younger self deserved to have when she was growing up, trying to understand how sex and relationships impacted her confidence, identity, values and needs.
(202) 949-3779 View (202) 949-3779
Photo of Seattle Online Counseling & Mindful Sex Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Seattle Online Counseling & Mindful Sex Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
36 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
It also helps during sex, to increase pleasure and connection.
Are you looking for a safe and supportive place to talk? A place to talk to someone about relational issues or sexual issues? If so, I can help you learn to slow down and listen to your deepest truths, listen to your body, mind and spirit. This kind of support can increase your clarity and self knowledge, and improve your communication skills, so you stop neglecting your inner voice and needs. Stop struggling to ask for what you want and need in your relationships, and start to feel heard. If you haven't been able to make the changes you know you need too, this is the time to understand your blocks and move in a new direction.
It also helps during sex, to increase pleasure and connection.
Are you looking for a safe and supportive place to talk? A place to talk to someone about relational issues or sexual issues? If so, I can help you learn to slow down and listen to your deepest truths, listen to your body, mind and spirit. This kind of support can increase your clarity and self knowledge, and improve your communication skills, so you stop neglecting your inner voice and needs. Stop struggling to ask for what you want and need in your relationships, and start to feel heard. If you haven't been able to make the changes you know you need too, this is the time to understand your blocks and move in a new direction.
(206) 569-6983 View (206) 569-6983
Photo of Kimberly Castelo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Kimberly Castelo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S, CST-S, CEFT -T, CEFT-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
I am an AAMFT Supervisor, Certified EFT Couples Therapist and Supervisor and an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist and Supervisor.
For therapy to be effective, it needs to be real, honest, compassionate, and focused on the client's goals. That is what you will find with me. Over the years, I have found a common thread among my clients: they long to feel safe, loved, and accepted by those around them. When those feelings are not met, life can seem overwhelming and depressing. Finding connections, learning skills, overcoming traumas, dealing with grief, helping your marriage thrive -- these can be great stepping stones in living life to the fullest. Together, we can find ways to achieve this goal.
I am an AAMFT Supervisor, Certified EFT Couples Therapist and Supervisor and an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist and Supervisor.
For therapy to be effective, it needs to be real, honest, compassionate, and focused on the client's goals. That is what you will find with me. Over the years, I have found a common thread among my clients: they long to feel safe, loved, and accepted by those around them. When those feelings are not met, life can seem overwhelming and depressing. Finding connections, learning skills, overcoming traumas, dealing with grief, helping your marriage thrive -- these can be great stepping stones in living life to the fullest. Together, we can find ways to achieve this goal.
(206) 429-6253 View (206) 429-6253
Photo of Genajuade S Stevenson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Genajuade S Stevenson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, SUDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98195  (Online Only)
As a psychotherapist and substance use disorder professional working toward credentialing as a sex therapist, I take a holistic approach to mental health. Whether you are struggling with overwhelming emotions, having difficulty with sex and intimacy or relying on unhealthy vices to cope; a partnership in counseling can be the answer to lasting change. I make it a priority to cultivate a safe and non-judgemental space where all individuals and partnerships are welcomed and celebrated.
As a psychotherapist and substance use disorder professional working toward credentialing as a sex therapist, I take a holistic approach to mental health. Whether you are struggling with overwhelming emotions, having difficulty with sex and intimacy or relying on unhealthy vices to cope; a partnership in counseling can be the answer to lasting change. I make it a priority to cultivate a safe and non-judgemental space where all individuals and partnerships are welcomed and celebrated.
(425) 584-3561 View (425) 584-3561
Photo of Kalila Griffin, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Seattle, WA
Kalila Griffin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with conflict in relationships, and I am also a certified sex educator and sex therapist.
I am a collaborative, directive, and supportive therapist, who can help you find new ways of thinking about life problems in a supportive and safe environment. My goal is to build trust and collaborate with you if you are dealing with problems related to anxiety, depression, relational issues, and other life challenges and transitions.
I specialize in working with conflict in relationships, and I am also a certified sex educator and sex therapist.
I am a collaborative, directive, and supportive therapist, who can help you find new ways of thinking about life problems in a supportive and safe environment. My goal is to build trust and collaborate with you if you are dealing with problems related to anxiety, depression, relational issues, and other life challenges and transitions.
(206) 761-0956 View (206) 761-0956
Photo of Art of Loving Center, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Art of Loving Center
Counselor, MS , LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98108  (Online Only)
Sex lies at the root of life, and we can never learn to reverence life until we know how to understand sex".
We are taking new clients! View our website to schedule an appointment on our live calendar. Working as a husband and wife team gives you the benefits of both perspectives in a relationship. This eliminates the question of whether should we see a male or female counselor. As Therapists/Life Coaches, we help you reach understanding and compassion in your relationship, heal painful experiences, find new ways of coping with stress, and interact with others. We serve couples in the areas of relationships and sexuality. We offer couples counseling for all relationship issues. We use research-based Gottman Methods.
Sex lies at the root of life, and we can never learn to reverence life until we know how to understand sex".
We are taking new clients! View our website to schedule an appointment on our live calendar. Working as a husband and wife team gives you the benefits of both perspectives in a relationship. This eliminates the question of whether should we see a male or female counselor. As Therapists/Life Coaches, we help you reach understanding and compassion in your relationship, heal painful experiences, find new ways of coping with stress, and interact with others. We serve couples in the areas of relationships and sexuality. We offer couples counseling for all relationship issues. We use research-based Gottman Methods.
(425) 541-1039 View (425) 541-1039
Photo of Bryia Madison, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Seattle, WA
Bryia Madison
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105  (Online Only)
Sex can be a taboo subject to many.
I am a queer feminist licensed marriage and family therapist associate. I show up to my sessions as an authentic, plant loving, halloween enthusiast. In our work together we will explore and identify those themes in your life that may not serve who you are now. We live in a society with social constructs that people struggle with, Particularly my clients who are LGBTQIA+, and sex positive. I help separate you from the stories that are having a negative impact. What are these stories? My work, education, and passion center around finding out what those what those themes and stories are to help you work towards your goals.
Sex can be a taboo subject to many.
I am a queer feminist licensed marriage and family therapist associate. I show up to my sessions as an authentic, plant loving, halloween enthusiast. In our work together we will explore and identify those themes in your life that may not serve who you are now. We live in a society with social constructs that people struggle with, Particularly my clients who are LGBTQIA+, and sex positive. I help separate you from the stories that are having a negative impact. What are these stories? My work, education, and passion center around finding out what those what those themes and stories are to help you work towards your goals.
(253) 766-5673 View (253) 766-5673
Photo of Dr. James Dillon, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Dr. James Dillon
Psychologist, PhD, LPsy
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
Do your sexual behaviors feel out of control? Are you concerned that you might be addicted to sex or porn? Has infidelity harmed your relationship? Perhaps you are struggling with sexual concerns like ED? If it's hard for you to stop problematic sexual behaviors on your own, it's time to see a specialist. I understand the impact compulsive sexual behavior can have on one's life and the toll of betrayal trauma on your relationship. I am committed to walking alongside my clients as they navigate their path to recovery. I am passionate about helping individuals achieve healthy intimacy, heal from trauma, and live a fulfilling life.
Do your sexual behaviors feel out of control? Are you concerned that you might be addicted to sex or porn? Has infidelity harmed your relationship? Perhaps you are struggling with sexual concerns like ED? If it's hard for you to stop problematic sexual behaviors on your own, it's time to see a specialist. I understand the impact compulsive sexual behavior can have on one's life and the toll of betrayal trauma on your relationship. I am committed to walking alongside my clients as they navigate their path to recovery. I am passionate about helping individuals achieve healthy intimacy, heal from trauma, and live a fulfilling life.
(425) 966-2275 View (425) 966-2275
Photo of Cait King, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Cait King
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109
I completed my Masters degree in Marriage & Family Therapy with a concentration in Sex Therapy from Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, PA.
As a Couple and Family Therapist, I am honored to collaborate with clients in deciphering what may be holding you back from the freedom to live a more whole, robust life. A concentration of mine is in working with those who have attentional difficulties or learning differences such as ADHD, whether in a couple, family, or individual setting.
I completed my Masters degree in Marriage & Family Therapy with a concentration in Sex Therapy from Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, PA.
As a Couple and Family Therapist, I am honored to collaborate with clients in deciphering what may be holding you back from the freedom to live a more whole, robust life. A concentration of mine is in working with those who have attentional difficulties or learning differences such as ADHD, whether in a couple, family, or individual setting.
(267) 953-8094 View (267) 953-8094
Photo of Alyse Bradway, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Seattle, WA
Alyse Bradway
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105  (Online Only)
I work with couples and individuals experiencing a variety of issues including sex therapy, conflict resolution, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, body image, and more.
Therapy is a vulnerable process, and my goal is to meet clients where they’re at and work with them in a warm, engaging, and direct manner. I work with clients collaboratively, seeing you as the expert of your own life and me as a third party to help see patterns, ask questions, and hold difficult things with you. My goal is to see holistic change for each client. I work from a systems perspective, meaning I incorporate the way your family, friends, community, work, etc. affect who you are. With this knowledge, we can build healthy frameworks and relationships.
I work with couples and individuals experiencing a variety of issues including sex therapy, conflict resolution, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, body image, and more.
Therapy is a vulnerable process, and my goal is to meet clients where they’re at and work with them in a warm, engaging, and direct manner. I work with clients collaboratively, seeing you as the expert of your own life and me as a third party to help see patterns, ask questions, and hold difficult things with you. My goal is to see holistic change for each client. I work from a systems perspective, meaning I incorporate the way your family, friends, community, work, etc. affect who you are. With this knowledge, we can build healthy frameworks and relationships.
(206) 203-1554 View (206) 203-1554
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.