What is sex therapy?

If your sexual satisfaction and confidence aren’t where you want them to be, you are not alone. You and your partner may have clicked so easily and spontaneously before, but now it feels awkward to be close with the person you love the most.

Could sex therapy be the answer?

Yes, sex therapy can help! As a certified sex therapist, I can help you overcome problems with sexual intimacy and functioning. Below are some frequently asked questions to help you understand how sex therapy could work for you.

What happens during sex therapy sessions?

You can do sex therapy with a partner or on your own. Together, we will set goals, talk openly about your issues, and plan homework activities to do between sessions. We’ll discuss your progress each week and work together to help you meet your goals.

And while we may talk about sex during therapy, nothing sexual happens during our sessions. All activities for “therapy homework” happen outside of our sessions.

What kind of problems does a sex therapist help with?

Part of the therapy process is understanding what may be causing your problems. We may need to address other issues first before focusing on sexual concerns. For example, if you seem to be dealing with depression or anxiety, our treatment plan will start there. Or I may refer you to a doctor to address any medical concerns contributing to issues such as pelvic pain or low libido.

Some common issues you might work on in sex therapy:

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Low or no interest in sex

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Different sex drive levels within a couple

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Intimacy after infidelity

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Distressing thoughts about sex

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Impulsivity and sexual behavior

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Lack of confidence with sex

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Sexual function concerns

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Inability to orgasm

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Sex and trauma

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Problems with trust, intimacy, communication

But I’m so embarrassed.
How do I talk about these problems?

It’s OK to feel embarrassed— a lot of people feel this way! Sex therapy is centered on acceptance without judgment. If sex is a taboo topic in your social group or family, you may feel ashamed or nervous talking about it.

Sex can be weird, exciting, and even funny or silly! In therapy, I can help you become more relaxed and comfortable talking about sex.

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Does anyone else have the same problem I do? Am I the only one?

Problems with sexual function and intimacy are common. These issues can be tough to talk about with others, so you may not realize how many people struggle with them.

Many sex-related problems can be caused by stress, health issues, or major life changes. As a therapist, I’m there to listen, be supportive, and help you understand how these problems affect your sex life. Many people struggle with these issues at times. You are not strange, abnormal, or alone.

My partner and I have had problems with sex for a long time. How can sex therapy help us?

No matter how big your difficulties may feel, therapy can introduce new insights, perspectives, and approaches that can help improve the intimacy in your relationship. Working with a dedicated professional can help you discover a new solution to an old problem.

During therapy, you will learn new skills that can deepen and improve your communication and your understanding of your partner. You will be able to better learn and explore what each person wants and values in the relationship, and create new goals and ideas to implement together that will strengthen your relationship over time.