Sex Therapists in Sumner, WA

Photo of Amy A. Rinker, MA, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy A. Rinker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Sumner, WA 98390
We look at the bio-psycho-social- sexual-spiritual, cultural and societal, and other contexts that impact and influence functioning, health, and overall wellbeing.
We are wired for connection. Are you feeling disconnected from important people in your life, let down, or not feeling fully accepted or valued? Are you experiencing anger, sadness, loneliness, or don't feel understood? I or my team of therapists may be the therapist for you if you are interested in addressing relational struggles, difficulty with interpersonal communication, sexual struggles, repairing connection, improving intimacy, improving your sexual health, healing from trauma, addressing sexual shame, life transitions, identity, and many others. Our goal is to get to the roots to help people thrive not merely survive.
We look at the bio-psycho-social- sexual-spiritual, cultural and societal, and other contexts that impact and influence functioning, health, and overall wellbeing.
We are wired for connection. Are you feeling disconnected from important people in your life, let down, or not feeling fully accepted or valued? Are you experiencing anger, sadness, loneliness, or don't feel understood? I or my team of therapists may be the therapist for you if you are interested in addressing relational struggles, difficulty with interpersonal communication, sexual struggles, repairing connection, improving intimacy, improving your sexual health, healing from trauma, addressing sexual shame, life transitions, identity, and many others. Our goal is to get to the roots to help people thrive not merely survive.
(253) 785-9564 View (253) 785-9564
Photo of Jason A. Soto - Sound Foundations Professional Counseling, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sound Foundations Professional Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sumner, WA 98390
At Sound Foundations we specialize in COUPLES ISSUES, With over 90% percent of our clients being couples, we put the focus where it counts, on the issues that are important to you. Our education, training and experience is on what matters to you most, Couples Issues. Whether you have lost that loving feeling, are having trouble communicating, resolving conflict, or are struggling to survive an infidelity; we can help.
At Sound Foundations we specialize in COUPLES ISSUES, With over 90% percent of our clients being couples, we put the focus where it counts, on the issues that are important to you. Our education, training and experience is on what matters to you most, Couples Issues. Whether you have lost that loving feeling, are having trouble communicating, resolving conflict, or are struggling to survive an infidelity; we can help.
(253) 236-0298 View (253) 236-0298
Photo of Yvonne M Bryght - Bryght Coaching & Counseling Services, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Bryght Coaching & Counseling Services
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sumner, WA 98390
I work with individuals to address family dynamics, financial abundance, sexual health, and spiritual wholeness.
I work with individuals, couples & groups as a psychotherapist, business coach, and energy intuitive since 1995. My work tends to the deep needs of the soul and addresses the most basic ego scripts so that you can shift cellular memories, rediscover your true voice, reconnect with your healthiest sense of self and remember your deepest callings--and then find the freedom to seek and find your best and highest self. I facilitate both Family Constellations and Organizational (business) Constellations on-line and in workshops that open you to engage with your deepest creativity and free you from repeating negative patterns.
I work with individuals to address family dynamics, financial abundance, sexual health, and spiritual wholeness.
I work with individuals, couples & groups as a psychotherapist, business coach, and energy intuitive since 1995. My work tends to the deep needs of the soul and addresses the most basic ego scripts so that you can shift cellular memories, rediscover your true voice, reconnect with your healthiest sense of self and remember your deepest callings--and then find the freedom to seek and find your best and highest self. I facilitate both Family Constellations and Organizational (business) Constellations on-line and in workshops that open you to engage with your deepest creativity and free you from repeating negative patterns.
(253) 200-6709 View (253) 200-6709
Photo of Angella C Courtney - Angella Courtney, MS, LMHC, CMHS, NCC, MS, LMHC, CMHS, NCC, Counselor
Angella Courtney, MS, LMHC, CMHS, NCC
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CMHS, NCC
Verified Verified
Sumner, WA 98390
Not accepting new clients
I am the owner/sole-provider at Orenda Counseling. I am a nationally-certified counselor, child mental health specialist, EMDRIA approved EMDR provider, and currently working towards certification in couples and sex therapy. I offer individual, couple, family, and group counseling. I specialize in individual/family trauma, attachment, gender/ sexuality, intimacy/relationships, and issues facing teens/adults with Autism. I work from from a client-focused and integrative perspective, joining with you in a safe and non-judgmental space to help you to find the healing and hope you're looking for.
I am the owner/sole-provider at Orenda Counseling. I am a nationally-certified counselor, child mental health specialist, EMDRIA approved EMDR provider, and currently working towards certification in couples and sex therapy. I offer individual, couple, family, and group counseling. I specialize in individual/family trauma, attachment, gender/ sexuality, intimacy/relationships, and issues facing teens/adults with Autism. I work from from a client-focused and integrative perspective, joining with you in a safe and non-judgmental space to help you to find the healing and hope you're looking for.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Claire Kilbourne, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Claire Kilbourne
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
I have my certification in sex therapy, and I also use the Gottman Method in my work with couples.
As a holistic systemic therapist, I believe that people are shaped by their experiences and the people they’ve encountered along the way. I work from a place of non-judgement and celebrate body positivity, 2SLGBTQ+, and neurodiversity. I tend to use interventions from various theories, and will do my best to shape sessions so that they best fit my clients and their needs.
I have my certification in sex therapy, and I also use the Gottman Method in my work with couples.
As a holistic systemic therapist, I believe that people are shaped by their experiences and the people they’ve encountered along the way. I work from a place of non-judgement and celebrate body positivity, 2SLGBTQ+, and neurodiversity. I tend to use interventions from various theories, and will do my best to shape sessions so that they best fit my clients and their needs.
(253) 364-1126 View (253) 364-1126
Photo of Elisabeth Esmiol Wilson, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elisabeth Esmiol Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Federal Way, WA 98023  (Online Only)
I am passionate about a sex positive approach to support clients in working through sexual issues.
Do you want to improve communication and understanding, work through past hurts such as infidelity, rebuild trust or increase intimacy? I am committed to helping people connect, heal and build mutually respectful, loving relationships. I work from a relational-experiential perspective which gives each person room to voice their desires and needs while learning to engage in new patterns and ways of being together. I enjoy working with people in any stage of relationship and I am committed to working together to help you reach your goals.
I am passionate about a sex positive approach to support clients in working through sexual issues.
Do you want to improve communication and understanding, work through past hurts such as infidelity, rebuild trust or increase intimacy? I am committed to helping people connect, heal and build mutually respectful, loving relationships. I work from a relational-experiential perspective which gives each person room to voice their desires and needs while learning to engage in new patterns and ways of being together. I enjoy working with people in any stage of relationship and I am committed to working together to help you reach your goals.
(253) 655-0633 View (253) 655-0633
Photo of Jennifer M Sampson, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer M Sampson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98375
I see clients with a wide variety of concerns relating to relationships, including communication, conflict, and intimacy and sex issues.
Are you in a relationship that is lacking connection or trust? Are you struggling with sexual concerns in your relationship(s)? Are you an adult who is dealing with conflict in your own family of origin, even though you left home long ago? I can help. I work with intimate relationships and adult individuals in my practice. We focus on healing past hurts and moving forward to achieve a more fulfilling sense of self, connection, and communication.
I see clients with a wide variety of concerns relating to relationships, including communication, conflict, and intimacy and sex issues.
Are you in a relationship that is lacking connection or trust? Are you struggling with sexual concerns in your relationship(s)? Are you an adult who is dealing with conflict in your own family of origin, even though you left home long ago? I can help. I work with intimate relationships and adult individuals in my practice. We focus on healing past hurts and moving forward to achieve a more fulfilling sense of self, connection, and communication.
(206) 855-3478 View (206) 855-3478
Photo of Wendy Pethybridge, LMHC, Counselor
Wendy Pethybridge
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Buckley, WA 98321  (Online Only)
Hi I'm Wendy. I have a private practice covering NY, WA, and AZ with Madison Galliano, Chelsea Vona, Kristin Meiner, Ridhima Malhotra, Madga Folk, Donny Mak, Krista Arnold, Jessica Drake, and Zolie Potter. As a sexologist, I help clients through sexual trauma, feelings of anxiety, fear, or shame related to sexuality and intimacy, addressing gender identity and sexual orientation, relationship design, church wounds, improve communication, heal issues stemming from sexual difficulties including poor body image, coping and living with STI's, exploring ENM, and kink/BDSM dynamics.
Hi I'm Wendy. I have a private practice covering NY, WA, and AZ with Madison Galliano, Chelsea Vona, Kristin Meiner, Ridhima Malhotra, Madga Folk, Donny Mak, Krista Arnold, Jessica Drake, and Zolie Potter. As a sexologist, I help clients through sexual trauma, feelings of anxiety, fear, or shame related to sexuality and intimacy, addressing gender identity and sexual orientation, relationship design, church wounds, improve communication, heal issues stemming from sexual difficulties including poor body image, coping and living with STI's, exploring ENM, and kink/BDSM dynamics.
(833) 364-2876 View (833) 364-2876
Photo of Bryia Madison, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Bryia Madison
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Auburn, WA 98002  (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 Candace Lea Hunsucker - Candace Hunsucker Therapeutic Services, LLC, LMFT, SUDP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Candace Hunsucker Therapeutic Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, SUDP
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98372
I serve Co-Occurring populations-those with mental health and substance use issues/Families with children with behavioral health challenges, LGBTQ populations, gender identity issues, sexuality, polyamory/non-traditional relationships.
I offer therapeutic sessions for individuals, couples, youth, and families. I help facilitate a process where people can develop insight and understanding of what may be holding them back from wellness, joy, and personal growth. Sometimes this may involve family patterns, behaviors that are not in line with one's values, or relationships that are no longer serving you. My job is to create safety for people to share their authentic selves, honoring strengths and navigating challenges together. My intention is to honor your gifts and to expand new ways of thinking or approaching situations to better meet your goals.
I serve Co-Occurring populations-those with mental health and substance use issues/Families with children with behavioral health challenges, LGBTQ populations, gender identity issues, sexuality, polyamory/non-traditional relationships.
I offer therapeutic sessions for individuals, couples, youth, and families. I help facilitate a process where people can develop insight and understanding of what may be holding them back from wellness, joy, and personal growth. Sometimes this may involve family patterns, behaviors that are not in line with one's values, or relationships that are no longer serving you. My job is to create safety for people to share their authentic selves, honoring strengths and navigating challenges together. My intention is to honor your gifts and to expand new ways of thinking or approaching situations to better meet your goals.
(206) 486-2113 View (206) 486-2113
Photo of Jose Torres-Oyama, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jose Torres-Oyama
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98373
I have a passion for working with couples and individuals experiencing a myriad of difficult life circumstances including issues related to communication, relationships, infidelity, sex, intimacy, anxiety, trauma, depression, and adjusting to significant life changes.
The Mindful Kaizen was created because I know life can present extremely challenging situations. It can feel like there is little to no hope that things will change. To encounter difficult times and feel unsure of where or who to turn to can feel overwhelming. If you are reading this, you have already taken a huge step toward making a change. Whether you are experiencing internal distress or distress in your relationships, I am here to help you work toward building your desired future one step at a time. Together, let's make this a mindful kaizen.
I have a passion for working with couples and individuals experiencing a myriad of difficult life circumstances including issues related to communication, relationships, infidelity, sex, intimacy, anxiety, trauma, depression, and adjusting to significant life changes.
The Mindful Kaizen was created because I know life can present extremely challenging situations. It can feel like there is little to no hope that things will change. To encounter difficult times and feel unsure of where or who to turn to can feel overwhelming. If you are reading this, you have already taken a huge step toward making a change. Whether you are experiencing internal distress or distress in your relationships, I am here to help you work toward building your desired future one step at a time. Together, let's make this a mindful kaizen.
(253) 518-3980 View (253) 518-3980
Photo of Matthew Fregoso, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Matthew Fregoso
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Auburn, WA 98001  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping men of all backgrounds address and overcome sexual challenges and identity issues, improve their intimate relationships, and enhance their sexual health. I'm experienced in helping clients struggling with sexual dysfunction, intimacy/relationship issues, non-monogamy/open relationships, kink exploration, sexual trauma, problematic sexual behavior, and those dealing with the emotional complexities of masculinity. I strive to create a non-judgmental and affirming space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences without fear of rejection.
I specialize in helping men of all backgrounds address and overcome sexual challenges and identity issues, improve their intimate relationships, and enhance their sexual health. I'm experienced in helping clients struggling with sexual dysfunction, intimacy/relationship issues, non-monogamy/open relationships, kink exploration, sexual trauma, problematic sexual behavior, and those dealing with the emotional complexities of masculinity. I strive to create a non-judgmental and affirming space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences without fear of rejection.
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Photo of Dr. Bre N Haizlip - Dr. Bre | Evolution Engineered, Inc., PhD, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Bre | Evolution Engineered, Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373  (Online Only)
Wanna be your own #RelationshipGoals! I help folx evolve beyond the same old arguments, into an honest partnership that nourishes each of you individually + together! My approach is all about identifying the individual skills each of you need to co-create a loving partnership -- without trauma bonds or codependency. I work with all backgrounds + orientations + expressions that know how to Love in all different ways! We do the work that is right for YOUR partnership—not anyone else's. You'll also discover if it's time to release your relationship. AND if it is time... I'll help you do so in the most Loving way!
Wanna be your own #RelationshipGoals! I help folx evolve beyond the same old arguments, into an honest partnership that nourishes each of you individually + together! My approach is all about identifying the individual skills each of you need to co-create a loving partnership -- without trauma bonds or codependency. I work with all backgrounds + orientations + expressions that know how to Love in all different ways! We do the work that is right for YOUR partnership—not anyone else's. You'll also discover if it's time to release your relationship. AND if it is time... I'll help you do so in the most Loving way!
(360) 526-8654 View (360) 526-8654
Photo of Ivy Turner, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ivy Turner
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373
As a therapist, I see my clients as the experts in their own lives. My role is akin to that of a guest—here to build upon the tools you already possess while introducing new ones that align with your life goals. I enjoy guiding clients through challenging life changes and helping them break patterns that no longer serve them. My experience primarily lies in working with teens and adults, including LGBTQIA+ youth and individuals with BIPOC identities.
As a therapist, I see my clients as the experts in their own lives. My role is akin to that of a guest—here to build upon the tools you already possess while introducing new ones that align with your life goals. I enjoy guiding clients through challenging life changes and helping them break patterns that no longer serve them. My experience primarily lies in working with teens and adults, including LGBTQIA+ youth and individuals with BIPOC identities.
(253) 785-9733 View (253) 785-9733
Photo of Martin A Phillips, PhD, CATSM, ABS, LPC Intern
Martin A Phillips
LPC Intern, PhD, CATSM, ABS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98443  (Online Only)
My mantra is “no matter who you are, where you are from, or what your story, you will be cared for”. Let’s cry together, laugh together, and move you forward on your journey. No matter what you bring into our therapy space, you are believed, valued, and cared for. I strive to offer you a safe space to be heard, and understood. All are welcome. I believe in offering a holistic, integrative approach and together we will help you find yourself again, safely explore relationships and take life one step at a time. I am here to support you, accept your values and beliefs, and never judge.
My mantra is “no matter who you are, where you are from, or what your story, you will be cared for”. Let’s cry together, laugh together, and move you forward on your journey. No matter what you bring into our therapy space, you are believed, valued, and cared for. I strive to offer you a safe space to be heard, and understood. All are welcome. I believe in offering a holistic, integrative approach and together we will help you find yourself again, safely explore relationships and take life one step at a time. I am here to support you, accept your values and beliefs, and never judge.
(253) 321-1943 View (253) 321-1943
Photo of Dr. Michael Grant Moen, DSL, MA, LMHC
Dr. Michael Grant Moen
Mental Health Counselor, DSL, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bonney Lake, WA 98391  (Online Only)
I use several therapeutic approaches including CBT, DBT, SFT Narrative therapy to support individual clients, and families. I work with youth 13 or older, couples, parents, and adults seeking professional counseling.
I use several therapeutic approaches including CBT, DBT, SFT Narrative therapy to support individual clients, and families. I work with youth 13 or older, couples, parents, and adults seeking professional counseling.
(253) 242-2989 View (253) 242-2989
Photo of Melissa Byrd, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Melissa Byrd
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Auburn, WA 98002  (Online Only)
In the past ten years I have worked with young adolescents, teenagers and young adults struggling with depression and anxiety, adult survivors of sexual abuse, and adults suffering from anxiety, depression, relationship/marital concerns, and other mental health difficulties in a private practice setting.
I believe that everyone has to cope with life changes, relationship struggles, substance abuse, and other mental health issues and sometimes, finding a successful way to cope with these changes can be hard. I strive to work collaboratively with people who want help to understand the life changes and develop strategies to cope. Therapeutically, I work with clients from a humanistic, client-centered ideology. However, I do not believe there is only one approach to working with someone and instead prefer to collaborate with clients to find an approach that works for them to make counseling a successful experience.
In the past ten years I have worked with young adolescents, teenagers and young adults struggling with depression and anxiety, adult survivors of sexual abuse, and adults suffering from anxiety, depression, relationship/marital concerns, and other mental health difficulties in a private practice setting.
I believe that everyone has to cope with life changes, relationship struggles, substance abuse, and other mental health issues and sometimes, finding a successful way to cope with these changes can be hard. I strive to work collaboratively with people who want help to understand the life changes and develop strategies to cope. Therapeutically, I work with clients from a humanistic, client-centered ideology. However, I do not believe there is only one approach to working with someone and instead prefer to collaborate with clients to find an approach that works for them to make counseling a successful experience.
(253) 218-4640 View (253) 218-4640
Photo of Shamyka SD Sutton, PhD, MSCP, CSOTP, SUDPT, Psychologist
Shamyka SD Sutton
Psychologist, PhD, MSCP, CSOTP, SUDPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98374
I also have specialized training in forensic evaluations including but not limited to competency, malingering, and sexually violent predator.
I work with each person through a holistic and integrative lens. Whether I am completing an evaluation or providing therapy, it is not one size fits all. I take a lot of pride when a client tells me, “you’re not like my other therapist.” I’ve heard all sorts of reasons I’m not like others. Most often, I hear appreciation about my ability to validate and push for change at the same time. I provide individual and group therapy; working with older teenage and adult men and women. I also provide evaluation services in various areas, such as behavioral, emotional, personality, cognitive, sexual, and memory domains.
I also have specialized training in forensic evaluations including but not limited to competency, malingering, and sexually violent predator.
I work with each person through a holistic and integrative lens. Whether I am completing an evaluation or providing therapy, it is not one size fits all. I take a lot of pride when a client tells me, “you’re not like my other therapist.” I’ve heard all sorts of reasons I’m not like others. Most often, I hear appreciation about my ability to validate and push for change at the same time. I provide individual and group therapy; working with older teenage and adult men and women. I also provide evaluation services in various areas, such as behavioral, emotional, personality, cognitive, sexual, and memory domains.
(253) 265-9356 View (253) 265-9356
Photo of Leana West, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Leana West
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98371
I specialize within the areas of: Depression/Anxiety PTSD Grief/Loss Domestic/Intimate partner Abuse Trauma (Emotional, Mental, Sexual) Single Parenting.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I am passionate about getting to the heart of the challenge(s) my clients face. I desire to work with my clients in discovering who they are by working through the issue(s) they face and achieve their desired goal(s). I believe wholeheartedly in finding the beauty within that makes one uniquely who they are. There is no absolute way to achieve that, however; my role is to offer a judgment free safe space for my clients that allows for transparency in all aspects of their life to allow for hope to eliminate the feelings of being stuck and overwhelmed. I work with individuals, couples, and families
I specialize within the areas of: Depression/Anxiety PTSD Grief/Loss Domestic/Intimate partner Abuse Trauma (Emotional, Mental, Sexual) Single Parenting.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I am passionate about getting to the heart of the challenge(s) my clients face. I desire to work with my clients in discovering who they are by working through the issue(s) they face and achieve their desired goal(s). I believe wholeheartedly in finding the beauty within that makes one uniquely who they are. There is no absolute way to achieve that, however; my role is to offer a judgment free safe space for my clients that allows for transparency in all aspects of their life to allow for hope to eliminate the feelings of being stuck and overwhelmed. I work with individuals, couples, and families
(253) 544-4418 View (253) 544-4418
Photo of Jeanne Purdum - Integrated Therapy Services NW, PLLC, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Integrated Therapy Services NW, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98371
Integrated Therapy Services (ITS) is dedicated to serving our community by supporting individuals, couples, and families through their lifelong journey of emotional growth and personal development. Our providers come together from the fields of Marriage and Family Therapy, Social Work, and Mental Health Counseling to provide the highest quality mental health services based in the most advance research in a warm and inviting environment. We deliver innovative and personalized treatment with compassion and care. Telehealth or in-person available.
Integrated Therapy Services (ITS) is dedicated to serving our community by supporting individuals, couples, and families through their lifelong journey of emotional growth and personal development. Our providers come together from the fields of Marriage and Family Therapy, Social Work, and Mental Health Counseling to provide the highest quality mental health services based in the most advance research in a warm and inviting environment. We deliver innovative and personalized treatment with compassion and care. Telehealth or in-person available.
(253) 214-9742 View (253) 214-9742

See more therapy options for Sumner

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.