What is sex therapy?

 

Sex therapy focuses on the resolution of sexual problems while increasing the capacity for joy, mutual pleasure, and connectedness. Sex therapy is conducted by licensed mental health professionals, such as therapists, psychologists, and counselors, who have specialized training, experience, and supervision in treating sexual problems. I further honed my expertise by completing a rigorous certification process through the American Association for Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT).

 

Despite the common belief that good sex should just happen naturally, sex is an art form that takes time to understand and develop. Few people have had opportunities to learn and talk about sex in a safe, non-shaming, and accurately information-rich environment. Consequently, even though most of us feel like we should just "know", it can feel uncomfortable to talk openly about what we do not know about sex. I will help you become comfortable while giving you the information and tools you need to enjoy sexual relationships that are:

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1. Consensual,

2. Non-exploitive,

3. Protected from HIV, STIs, and unwanted pregnancy,

4. Honest,

5. Congruent with values,

6. Mutually pleasurable.

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Sex therapy with me begins with a phase of assessment, during which time I take a thorough bio-psycho-social-sexual history, while offering pertinent sexuality education. I consult with your doctor or other health care providers, as appropriate. I then share my findings and recommended treatment plan with you. The next phase involves our collaborative intervention work, during which time I assign homework, and meet to talk about and modify your homework experiences such that they are most effective. This is the time for traditional psychotherapy as well, if it is part of your treatment plan. Sex therapy concludes with a review session, and follow-up sessions as needed.

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Why do people seek sex therapy? 

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Some of the many reasons why people seek sex therapy include:

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• Low or no sexual desire.

• Difficult or no orgasm.

• Out of control sexual behavior (some people use the term "sex addiction").

• Pelvic or genital pain.

• Sexual shame.

• Differences in sexual desire, values, fantasies, preferences.

• Changes in sexuality during the lifespan, particularly with aging, and major life events.

• Rapid ejaculation.

• Delayed ejaculation.

• Erectile concerns.

• Loss of passion, or "spark."

• Perceived fetishes, or concerns about sexual interests.

• A need for support through gender identity journeys.

• Primary and secondary letters for gender-affirming surgery.

• Questions about asexuality.

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To schedule an appointment, please send me a message using the form below: