Sex Therapists in Seattle, WA

Photo of Beachview Counseling Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Beachview Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
We specialize in couples/relationships, communication issues, sex therapy, and grief and loss, as well as anxiety and sex therapy for individuals. Finding a therapist you feel comfortable with is an important part of the process, and we look forward to meeting with you. We see individuals and couples in person in Downtown Seattle and anywhere in Washington State via a secure Telehealth platform. Sessions are $150 with sliding scale openings available based on financial need and subject to availability.
We specialize in couples/relationships, communication issues, sex therapy, and grief and loss, as well as anxiety and sex therapy for individuals. Finding a therapist you feel comfortable with is an important part of the process, and we look forward to meeting with you. We see individuals and couples in person in Downtown Seattle and anywhere in Washington State via a secure Telehealth platform. Sessions are $150 with sliding scale openings available based on financial need and subject to availability.
(206) 208-7211 View (206) 208-7211
Photo of Carrie Lanza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Carrie Lanza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98125  (Online Only)
Appointments available evenings (Tues, Weds) and Saturday mornings! I specialize in therapy with a focus on sex and relationships as well as general challenges like anxiety and depression. One of the aspects of my work that I love most is helping clients uncover strengths that may not be readily apparent in moments of crisis. Life can present unexpected challenges, and through our therapeutic journey, I aim to assist you in recognizing and tapping into your strengths and the reservoirs of resilience that lead to growth and empowerment.
Appointments available evenings (Tues, Weds) and Saturday mornings! I specialize in therapy with a focus on sex and relationships as well as general challenges like anxiety and depression. One of the aspects of my work that I love most is helping clients uncover strengths that may not be readily apparent in moments of crisis. Life can present unexpected challenges, and through our therapeutic journey, I aim to assist you in recognizing and tapping into your strengths and the reservoirs of resilience that lead to growth and empowerment.
(206) 222-6585 View (206) 222-6585
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 Ethan Schwab, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Ethan Schwab
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109
As a relationship and sex therapist, my background and training are in relationship treatment as well as sexuality therapy. I work with heterosexual, lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, asexual, and transgender individuals, couples, and partnerships to heal and find fulfillment. I see adults on a variety of discomforts that affect individuals, partnerships, and sexuality (e.g., orgasmic issues, erectile issues, desire issues, sexual pain). Additionally, I see couples for a myriad of relational issues. I am LGBTIQA, kink, and poly friendly and knowledgeable.
As a relationship and sex therapist, my background and training are in relationship treatment as well as sexuality therapy. I work with heterosexual, lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, asexual, and transgender individuals, couples, and partnerships to heal and find fulfillment. I see adults on a variety of discomforts that affect individuals, partnerships, and sexuality (e.g., orgasmic issues, erectile issues, desire issues, sexual pain). Additionally, I see couples for a myriad of relational issues. I am LGBTIQA, kink, and poly friendly and knowledgeable.
(425) 998-9432 View (425) 998-9432
Photo of Heidi Gray, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Heidi Gray
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98136
I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples and am en route to becoming an AASECT certified sex therapist.
I work with all types of couples to resolve conflict and increase emotional and physical intimacy in relationships. Clients who contact my practice are usually seeking counseling because they are struggling with a disconnected relationship, working toward healing after betrayal, having sexual difficulties, or contemplating separation. Through the use of research-supported approaches to couple therapy, relational wounds can be healed and a deeper connection in our most important relationships is possible.
I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples and am en route to becoming an AASECT certified sex therapist.
I work with all types of couples to resolve conflict and increase emotional and physical intimacy in relationships. Clients who contact my practice are usually seeking counseling because they are struggling with a disconnected relationship, working toward healing after betrayal, having sexual difficulties, or contemplating separation. Through the use of research-supported approaches to couple therapy, relational wounds can be healed and a deeper connection in our most important relationships is possible.
(206) 858-8169 View (206) 858-8169
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 Wai Wong-Miller, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Wai Wong-Miller
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98125  (Online Only)
I see clients who are interested in trauma work, sex education and therapy, mood disorders, racial/cultural identity issues, and relationship problems. I am a certified EMDR therapist and a sex therapist. I provide a non-judgment safe space for you to work on issues that may often be difficult and scary to talk about. My style is to be interactive and engage in providing emotional support, active listening, insight, clinical recommendations and alternative perspectives which challenge old patterns. My strengths are being intuitive, empathetic, focused, creative, and having a good sense of humor.
I see clients who are interested in trauma work, sex education and therapy, mood disorders, racial/cultural identity issues, and relationship problems. I am a certified EMDR therapist and a sex therapist. I provide a non-judgment safe space for you to work on issues that may often be difficult and scary to talk about. My style is to be interactive and engage in providing emotional support, active listening, insight, clinical recommendations and alternative perspectives which challenge old patterns. My strengths are being intuitive, empathetic, focused, creative, and having a good sense of humor.
(206) 569-8904 View (206) 569-8904
Photo of Lindsey J Pepperoni, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Seattle, WA
Lindsey J Pepperoni
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109
I am here for anyone who is struggling, looking for support, help, or personal exploration. My goal is to provide a safe space and an outside perspective with which to collaborate and problem solve. I identify as queer, and I am LGBTQIA+ affirming. I work with people of all identities, genders, and relationship configurations. I recognize that each client is unique and therefore approach my work using a client-centered, strengths-based model to personalize treatment. I have the added benefit of having a sex therapy certified supervisor, which makes me a great fit for clients who wish to explore intimacy issues and sexual shame.
I am here for anyone who is struggling, looking for support, help, or personal exploration. My goal is to provide a safe space and an outside perspective with which to collaborate and problem solve. I identify as queer, and I am LGBTQIA+ affirming. I work with people of all identities, genders, and relationship configurations. I recognize that each client is unique and therefore approach my work using a client-centered, strengths-based model to personalize treatment. I have the added benefit of having a sex therapy certified supervisor, which makes me a great fit for clients who wish to explore intimacy issues and sexual shame.
(206) 207-7242 View (206) 207-7242
Photo of Becca Hirsch, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Becca Hirsch
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
Don't worry, this isn't a smile and nod type of therapy, I'm on this journey with you. I am a relationship and sex therapist who is dedicated to empowering you to live happier, healthier, and more authentic life both individually and in your romantic relationships. I explore what it would mean for you to live as authentically as possible and how to make sense of messages you have received about relationships and sexual health. I believe you are the expert in your own life, and my role as a therapist is to create a safe and non-judgmental space for exploration, processing, and to help you create the life you want to be living.
Don't worry, this isn't a smile and nod type of therapy, I'm on this journey with you. I am a relationship and sex therapist who is dedicated to empowering you to live happier, healthier, and more authentic life both individually and in your romantic relationships. I explore what it would mean for you to live as authentically as possible and how to make sense of messages you have received about relationships and sexual health. I believe you are the expert in your own life, and my role as a therapist is to create a safe and non-judgmental space for exploration, processing, and to help you create the life you want to be living.
(312) 697-3814 x642 View (312) 697-3814 x642
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 Morris ., Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Seattle, WA
Morris .
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, MA-CFT, MA-AQR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
I am a queer relationship, individual, and sex therapist. I offer a collaborative, holistic, hands-on approach to therapy. I enjoy working with various relationships and adult individuals. I primarily focus on serving the LGBTQIA2+ community, women, non-binary, and genderfluid folks, those looking for increased connection in their relationships, those who want to explore their sexuality and enrich their sexual selves. I recognize that it takes a lot of courage to start therapy. I aim to provide a space for you to feel genuinely heard, understood, and seen – no matter what you are dealing with.
I am a queer relationship, individual, and sex therapist. I offer a collaborative, holistic, hands-on approach to therapy. I enjoy working with various relationships and adult individuals. I primarily focus on serving the LGBTQIA2+ community, women, non-binary, and genderfluid folks, those looking for increased connection in their relationships, those who want to explore their sexuality and enrich their sexual selves. I recognize that it takes a lot of courage to start therapy. I aim to provide a space for you to feel genuinely heard, understood, and seen – no matter what you are dealing with.
(206) 472-1370 View (206) 472-1370
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 Ellina Bokov, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Ellina Bokov
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98188
Couples therapy involves working on communication, rebuilding trust, care towards each other, belief systems that affect the relationship, infidelity, parenting, sex dissatisfaction/issues, conflict management, blended families, and emotional/physical intimacy.
Relationships are so beautifully complex. The relationship that was created has the power to be your source of joy or your most painful place in life. Unfortunately, many couples decide to stay in their discomfort as opposed to seeking out help and potentially transforming their lives together. If your relationship hit a roadblock, if you feel hopeless for the future, or if you are seeking greater fulfillment in your relationship, I would love to help you.
Couples therapy involves working on communication, rebuilding trust, care towards each other, belief systems that affect the relationship, infidelity, parenting, sex dissatisfaction/issues, conflict management, blended families, and emotional/physical intimacy.
Relationships are so beautifully complex. The relationship that was created has the power to be your source of joy or your most painful place in life. Unfortunately, many couples decide to stay in their discomfort as opposed to seeking out help and potentially transforming their lives together. If your relationship hit a roadblock, if you feel hopeless for the future, or if you are seeking greater fulfillment in your relationship, I would love to help you.
(425) 578-5806 View (425) 578-5806
Photo of PNW Sex Therapy Collective, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
PNW Sex Therapy Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109
As sex therapists, we navigate self-awareness, encourage sexual agency, and explore sexual values.
We are a collective of comprehensively trained, client-centered, and value-focused therapists who have a sincere interest in helping people improve connection to themselves, their sexuality, and their relationships with others. Our values reflect who we are as individuals and as a collective, where inclusivity is paramount, diversity is celebrated, and our work considers the needs of those we serve.
As sex therapists, we navigate self-awareness, encourage sexual agency, and explore sexual values.
We are a collective of comprehensively trained, client-centered, and value-focused therapists who have a sincere interest in helping people improve connection to themselves, their sexuality, and their relationships with others. Our values reflect who we are as individuals and as a collective, where inclusivity is paramount, diversity is celebrated, and our work considers the needs of those we serve.
(425) 368-9306 View (425) 368-9306
Photo of Nicole Taher, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Seattle, WA
Nicole Taher
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
As a queer, creative, polyamorous, and ethnic therapist, with a multi-year former career in the major label sector of the music industry in Los Angeles & Nashville, my work often uncovers the creative expressive, dynamic soul, as well as identity exploration, connection, intimacy, and sexuality.
We live in an overly stimulated world even while hiding from a virus, with constant choices regarding how we spend our time and energy and procure our needs. The amount of content we engage with daily has most people overloaded and unfocused. Which means, most of the time, we are not truly listened to or seen. For some, stepping into therapy is the first time they have experienced being heard and seen, wholly, genuinely, and comprehensively. The initial experience of being heard, can have a profound effect on one’s life. That is where we will begin. In a space with presence, non-judgmental empathic listening, and acceptance.
As a queer, creative, polyamorous, and ethnic therapist, with a multi-year former career in the major label sector of the music industry in Los Angeles & Nashville, my work often uncovers the creative expressive, dynamic soul, as well as identity exploration, connection, intimacy, and sexuality.
We live in an overly stimulated world even while hiding from a virus, with constant choices regarding how we spend our time and energy and procure our needs. The amount of content we engage with daily has most people overloaded and unfocused. Which means, most of the time, we are not truly listened to or seen. For some, stepping into therapy is the first time they have experienced being heard and seen, wholly, genuinely, and comprehensively. The initial experience of being heard, can have a profound effect on one’s life. That is where we will begin. In a space with presence, non-judgmental empathic listening, and acceptance.
(206) 312-6107 View (206) 312-6107
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 Serena S Perry, Pre-Licensed Professional in Seattle, WA
Serena S Perry
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
I am particularly excited to work with individuals and couples grappling with sex and intimacy issues, gender dysphoria, anxiety, depression, shame, self-esteem, and trauma.
Therapy is an incredible tool for healing, exploration, and liberation. I am specially trained in lending a neutral ear as you navigate new truths and find growth in old wounds. As a relationship therapy specialist, I know that enriching connections to Self, Partners, Family, and Community are key to achieving the high quality of life that you deserve. My role is to help you gain confidence, truth, and a chance to re-author your life’s narrative. I work with individuals, people in relationships (couples, spouses, polycules, etc.), and families of all kinds. I draw from a strengths-based narrative approach that is client-centered.
I am particularly excited to work with individuals and couples grappling with sex and intimacy issues, gender dysphoria, anxiety, depression, shame, self-esteem, and trauma.
Therapy is an incredible tool for healing, exploration, and liberation. I am specially trained in lending a neutral ear as you navigate new truths and find growth in old wounds. As a relationship therapy specialist, I know that enriching connections to Self, Partners, Family, and Community are key to achieving the high quality of life that you deserve. My role is to help you gain confidence, truth, and a chance to re-author your life’s narrative. I work with individuals, people in relationships (couples, spouses, polycules, etc.), and families of all kinds. I draw from a strengths-based narrative approach that is client-centered.
(206) 672-2289 View (206) 672-2289
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 Ewa Lichnowska (Eh-Vuh), Counselor in Seattle, WA
Ewa Lichnowska (Eh-Vuh)
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CST
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
I am both a psychotherapist and a certified sex therapist (AASECT certified) and I help couples and individuals fulfill their emotional, sexual and relational needs by building a therapeutic relationship based on empathy, safety and trust. I will support you in clarifying your needs and goals without judgement so that you can take the insight and skills we develop together into your life and relationships. If you struggle with intimacy, desire or preference discrepancy in your relationship or if you struggle with performance, anxiety related ED or ability to experience sexual pleasure and orgasm, I look forward to meeting you.
I am both a psychotherapist and a certified sex therapist (AASECT certified) and I help couples and individuals fulfill their emotional, sexual and relational needs by building a therapeutic relationship based on empathy, safety and trust. I will support you in clarifying your needs and goals without judgement so that you can take the insight and skills we develop together into your life and relationships. If you struggle with intimacy, desire or preference discrepancy in your relationship or if you struggle with performance, anxiety related ED or ability to experience sexual pleasure and orgasm, I look forward to meeting you.
(206) 538-2871 View (206) 538-2871
Photo of Natassja Barnes, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Natassja Barnes
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
As a Sex Therapist, my approach engages a mixture of humanistic, feminist, and social justice perspectives that work together to see an individual within all the roles and identities they possess. I feel passionate about working with those who are concerned with topics surrounding women's sexuality, LGBTQIA issues, and anti-oppression work. I believe the answers on how to get through hardships reside within us, and I am committed to your personal journey of healing or transformation and what that means for you. My role allows me to become an ally with the healing power of human connection to better your relationships and life.
As a Sex Therapist, my approach engages a mixture of humanistic, feminist, and social justice perspectives that work together to see an individual within all the roles and identities they possess. I feel passionate about working with those who are concerned with topics surrounding women's sexuality, LGBTQIA issues, and anti-oppression work. I believe the answers on how to get through hardships reside within us, and I am committed to your personal journey of healing or transformation and what that means for you. My role allows me to become an ally with the healing power of human connection to better your relationships and life.
(425) 409-2043 View (425) 409-2043
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.