What Is Sex Therapy?

A Safe, Supportive Space to Reconnect with Your Sexual Self

Sexuality is an important part of our emotional and relational well-being—but it’s also one of the least talked-about areas of our lives. When something feels off, it can lead to frustration, shame, or disconnection—from ourselves and from our partners.

Sex therapy is a confidential, compassionate form of talk therapy that helps individuals and couples explore concerns related to sex, intimacy, and connection. Whether you’re facing a specific issue or simply want to deepen your understanding of your sexuality, sex therapy provides a safe place to start.

“Pleasure is the measure.”
Emily Nagoski, Ph.D., author of Come As You Are

This simple truth is at the heart of sex therapy: helping you understand and embrace your sexual self with compassion, clarity, and confidence. It’s not about fixing what’s “wrong”—it’s about helping you discover what feels right, on your terms.


What Can Sex Therapy Help With?

People seek sex therapy for many reasons. You are not alone—and you are not broken.

Some common areas we explore in sex therapy include:

  • Low desire or mismatched libido
  • Erectile difficulties or premature ejaculation
  • Pain or discomfort during sex
  • Difficulty with arousal or orgasm
  • Anxiety or shame about sex or the body
  • Communication and intimacy issues in relationships
  • Exploring sexual orientation or gender identity
  • Effects of trauma or past sexual experiences
  • Healing after infidelity or betrayal
  • Navigating kink, non-monogamy, or alternative sexualities

What to Expect from Working with a Sex Therapist

The idea of sex therapy can feel intimidating, especially if you’ve never spoken openly about sexual concerns before. Here’s what you can expect:

1. A Focus on Talk, Not Touch

Sex therapy is always talk-based. There is no physical or sexual contact involved. The goal is to understand your experiences, reduce distress, and help you move toward a more fulfilling sex life and relationship with your body.

2. An Initial Assessment

In your first session(s), we’ll explore:

  • Your relationship and sexual history
  • Current concerns and goals
  • Medical or psychological factors that may be relevant
  • Cultural, religious, or family influences around sex

If you’re coming as a couple, we may meet individually and together.

3. Collaborative Goals

Sex therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. We’ll work together to define what “healthy” and “satisfying” look like for you—whether that’s feeling more confident, overcoming anxiety, or rebuilding trust with a partner.

4. Tools, Exercises & Education

Depending on your needs, you may receive:

  • Communication exercises
  • Sensate focus techniques (non-sexual touch exercises to build intimacy)
  • Guided reflections or journaling
  • Psychoeducation about sexual health and functioning

You’ll never be asked to do anything that feels uncomfortable or beyond your boundaries.


Is Sex Therapy Right for You?

You don’t have to be in crisis to benefit from sex therapy. You might be seeking clarity, connection, or healing. You might be asking questions like:

  • “Why don’t I enjoy sex anymore?”
  • “How do I talk to my partner about what I need?”
  • “Is what I’m experiencing normal?”
  • “Can I feel safe in my body again?”

Sex therapy offers a supportive, affirming space to explore those questions—with no shame, no judgment, and no pressure.


Finding a Qualified Sex Therapist

When seeking a sex therapist, look for someone who has training in both general psychotherapy and sexual health. Credentials from organizations such as:

  • AASECT (American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists)

You have the right to ask about a therapist’s background and approach. A good sex therapist will welcome your questions and support your pace.


Ready to Begin?

If you’re feeling unsure, anxious, or just curious about whether sex therapy is right for you, you’re in the right place.

You deserve a relationship with your body and your partner that feels safe, empowered, and connected. Let’s explore what’s possible—together.

Schedule an appointment 

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