Sex Therapy
Many people ask, What is sex therapy, and how is it different from other types of therapy?
It's a great question. Sex therapy often looks very similar to traditional talk therapy, but the concerns that bring people in typically have a sexual or relational component.
Some clients come in with a specific physical concern, such as difficulty reaching orgasm, pain during sex, or a noticeable decrease in desire or arousal. Others are navigating emotional or relational challenges, like desire discrepancies with a partner, questions about identity, shame surrounding sexuality, or difficulty communicating about intimacy.
Sex therapy provides a space to explore the many biological, psychological, relational, and cultural factors that influence our sexual experiences. Often, the goal isn't simply to "fix" a problem, but to better understand yourself and build a relationship with your sexuality that feels authentic and sustainable.
Who is sex therapy for?
Sex therapy is for anyone who feels curious, worried, excited, confused, or even embarrassed about the role sex, intimacy, gender, or relationships play in their life.
Some clients come in hoping to better understand a physical experience, while others want to explore relationship dynamics, communication, desire differences, or the impact that shame or past experiences have had on their sexuality.
Sessions can be individual or with a partner (or partners), depending on your goals. If you're unsure which would be the best fit, that's something we can decide together during a consultation or in our first session.
Clinical areas of expertise:
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Low or changing sexual desire
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Desire differences between partners
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Pain during sex
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Difficulty with orgasm
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Erectile concerns or performance anxiety
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Exploring kink or BDSM
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Fetishes
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Polyamory, ethical non-monogamy, and relationship anarchy
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Gender identity and sexual orientation
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Shame surrounding sex or pleasure
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Infidelity and rebuilding intimacy
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Communication about sex and intimacy
What sessions typically look like...
Sessions are typically 50 minutes long, and I usually recommend meeting weekly at first so we have the opportunity to build trust and develop a strong therapeutic relationship. Many people worry they'll have to share intimate details before they're ready. Therapy moves at your pace. We don't have to discuss anything until you feel comfortable, and we'll work together to create a space where difficult conversations feel manageable.
During our first few sessions, I'll spend time getting to know you. We'll talk about your personal history, your relationships, and the experiences that have shaped the way you think and feel about sex, intimacy, and connection. I'll ask questions that help me understand not only the concerns that brought you to therapy, but also the broader context of your life.
As we continue working together, sessions become increasingly collaborative. We'll explore the questions you're bringing into therapy, identify the patterns that may be contributing to distress, and work toward the goals that feel meaningful to you. My role isn't to tell you what your relationships or sexuality should look like, but to help you better understand yourself and create a life that feels authentic.