Sex Therapists in Newport Beach, CA

Photo of Taylor Hoyt, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Taylor Hoyt
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I have spent the last year working at the Mariposa Center in a school-based program with adolescents and a community-based program with adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, gender, and sexual identity. I am now in a small group practice where I provide services to individuals and couples. I am a Level 3 Trained Gottman Method Therapist and I am pursuing certification with the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) to work with adults and couples as they navigate the many aspects of sexual dysfunction, intimacy issues, and family dynamics.
I have spent the last year working at the Mariposa Center in a school-based program with adolescents and a community-based program with adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, gender, and sexual identity. I am now in a small group practice where I provide services to individuals and couples. I am a Level 3 Trained Gottman Method Therapist and I am pursuing certification with the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) to work with adults and couples as they navigate the many aspects of sexual dysfunction, intimacy issues, and family dynamics.
(949) 353-5230 View (949) 353-5230
Photo of Emelina Bellé Aasect Sex Therapist Partner Betrayal + Couples Counseling, PSYD(c), LMFT, CST, CSAT, CPTT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emelina Bellé Aasect Sex Therapist Partner Betrayal + Couples Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, PSYD(c), LMFT, CST, CSAT, CPTT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
As a Board-Certified Diplomate Sexologist with advanced clinical training in Certified Sex Therapy, Clinical Trauma Professional, Partner Betrayal Trauma, Sex Addiction, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Certified Rainbow Specialist, and the Early Recovery Couples Empathy Model, I am an expert to guide you through the transformative journey.
Discovering an affair or sexual addiction is heartbreaking and shattering. You are not alone—there is hope in your healing journey. I am a Couples Specialist, Certified Sex Therapist, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, and Partner Betrayal Trauma Specialist with expertise in Early Recovery Couples Empathy. My approach is inclusive, safe, and non-judgmental, dedicated to fostering healing and post-traumatic growth. I focus on safety and stabilization, repairing ruptures, reestablishing trust, healing betrayal trauma, improving communication, and managing conflict. My goal is to support you in a meaningful, loving connection
As a Board-Certified Diplomate Sexologist with advanced clinical training in Certified Sex Therapy, Clinical Trauma Professional, Partner Betrayal Trauma, Sex Addiction, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Certified Rainbow Specialist, and the Early Recovery Couples Empathy Model, I am an expert to guide you through the transformative journey.
Discovering an affair or sexual addiction is heartbreaking and shattering. You are not alone—there is hope in your healing journey. I am a Couples Specialist, Certified Sex Therapist, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, and Partner Betrayal Trauma Specialist with expertise in Early Recovery Couples Empathy. My approach is inclusive, safe, and non-judgmental, dedicated to fostering healing and post-traumatic growth. I focus on safety and stabilization, repairing ruptures, reestablishing trust, healing betrayal trauma, improving communication, and managing conflict. My goal is to support you in a meaningful, loving connection
(949) 257-2759 View (949) 257-2759
Photo of Sara Hoadley, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sara Hoadley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660  (Online Only)
I specialize in adult ADD/ADHD management, sex therapy, and LGBTQ+ affirmative, kink/poly affirmative care for individuals and couples.
I work with clients to find a new perspective on life. Growing up, we are told/hear things about what we “should” do or how we “should” feel. Should statements can cause clients to struggle with anxiety, depression, issues with connections with themselves or others, and much more. I view clients as the expert in their life and work with them to find their authentic selves by working on compassion, acceptance, and empowerment. Our world has changed, and societal expectations are changing, this gives us all the opportunity to discover our true priorities. How we show up for ourselves, friends, family, relationships, and our careers.
I specialize in adult ADD/ADHD management, sex therapy, and LGBTQ+ affirmative, kink/poly affirmative care for individuals and couples.
I work with clients to find a new perspective on life. Growing up, we are told/hear things about what we “should” do or how we “should” feel. Should statements can cause clients to struggle with anxiety, depression, issues with connections with themselves or others, and much more. I view clients as the expert in their life and work with them to find their authentic selves by working on compassion, acceptance, and empowerment. Our world has changed, and societal expectations are changing, this gives us all the opportunity to discover our true priorities. How we show up for ourselves, friends, family, relationships, and our careers.
(949) 541-9314 View (949) 541-9314
Photo of Lynda Smith - Teletherapy Only, LPCC, CSAT, EMDR, CHT, Coach
Lynda Smith - Teletherapy Only
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, CSAT, EMDR, CHT, Coach
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660  (Online Only)
I'm also a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and Board Certified Sex Therapist with an emphasis on 1) empowering betrayed partners, 2) utilizing a non-12 step approach to sexual addiction/trauma/porn recovery & 3) relational & intimacy problems.
Do you have past trauma, anxiety, depression, intimacy issues, sex/porn addiction, or relationship problems that need to be resolved? Discover how my integrative and holistic approach to therapy heals the whole person. I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families restore their lives and relationships. With empathy and understanding, I will work with you to help you realize your greatest potential so you can live in the present and focus on an amazing and successful future!
I'm also a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and Board Certified Sex Therapist with an emphasis on 1) empowering betrayed partners, 2) utilizing a non-12 step approach to sexual addiction/trauma/porn recovery & 3) relational & intimacy problems.
Do you have past trauma, anxiety, depression, intimacy issues, sex/porn addiction, or relationship problems that need to be resolved? Discover how my integrative and holistic approach to therapy heals the whole person. I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families restore their lives and relationships. With empathy and understanding, I will work with you to help you realize your greatest potential so you can live in the present and focus on an amazing and successful future!
(949) 612-2229 View (949) 612-2229
Photo of Maria Darcy, PhD, Psychologist
Maria Darcy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Hello, I'm Dr. Maria Darcy, Licensed Psychologist and Certified Sex Therapist. I have recently relocated my practice to Newport Beach and Irvine California. I have worked with individuals and couples in the United States and Europe for the past 15+ years. My therapeutic approach is integrative with a strong emphasis on relational factors. Ultimately I tailor my approach to each individual client and their situation. I incorporate a multicultural understanding into my approach by paying attention to social and cultural factors (e.g., gender, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation etc.) that impact individuals' experiences and their choices.
Hello, I'm Dr. Maria Darcy, Licensed Psychologist and Certified Sex Therapist. I have recently relocated my practice to Newport Beach and Irvine California. I have worked with individuals and couples in the United States and Europe for the past 15+ years. My therapeutic approach is integrative with a strong emphasis on relational factors. Ultimately I tailor my approach to each individual client and their situation. I incorporate a multicultural understanding into my approach by paying attention to social and cultural factors (e.g., gender, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation etc.) that impact individuals' experiences and their choices.
(949) 424-8972 View (949) 424-8972
Photo of Coralie McEachron, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Coralie McEachron
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92663  (Online Only)
; completed a post-graduate year-long program for Sex Therapy; and also am studying dance/movement therapy (DMT) to help folks get to re-connect with their bodies and inner wisdom.
I believe that we can get stuck in the mire of hopelessness when we feel overwhelmed, or when our circumstances are more than we can handle. If you struggle with navigating your emotions, finding meaning/purpose, overcoming difficult or painful circumstances of the past (flashbacks, avoidance, fear, triggers) or even the present (arguments, emotional angst, numbness, irritation, anxiety, worry, hypervigilance), I want to support you. I specialize in anxiety; depression; eating disorders; relational issues; sex therapy and education, as well as helping folks work through general/sexual trauma using somatic or body-centered methods.
; completed a post-graduate year-long program for Sex Therapy; and also am studying dance/movement therapy (DMT) to help folks get to re-connect with their bodies and inner wisdom.
I believe that we can get stuck in the mire of hopelessness when we feel overwhelmed, or when our circumstances are more than we can handle. If you struggle with navigating your emotions, finding meaning/purpose, overcoming difficult or painful circumstances of the past (flashbacks, avoidance, fear, triggers) or even the present (arguments, emotional angst, numbness, irritation, anxiety, worry, hypervigilance), I want to support you. I specialize in anxiety; depression; eating disorders; relational issues; sex therapy and education, as well as helping folks work through general/sexual trauma using somatic or body-centered methods.
(949) 828-5930 View (949) 828-5930
Photo of Lee R. Blackwell, PhD, Psychologist
Lee R. Blackwell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
My training as a sex therapist and then being Co-Director of the UCLA Human Sexuality Clinic for 10 years provides me with a solid background to work with sexual dysfunction, sexual addiction/compulsion, or sexual trauma in a caring and direct way.
I work mainly with adults and late adolescents, individually, in couples and in groups. The areas I specialize in are sexual issues (individuals or couples), adults molested as children, emotional intimacy, communication, anxiety, depression, self-awareness, and deep and lasting character change. In my 45 years of practicing counseling and psychotherapy I've worked with a wide variety of people of different ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, religions, and those with physical challenges. I find it immensely rewarding to work with people who are actively seeking to resolve problems through increased self-awareness.
My training as a sex therapist and then being Co-Director of the UCLA Human Sexuality Clinic for 10 years provides me with a solid background to work with sexual dysfunction, sexual addiction/compulsion, or sexual trauma in a caring and direct way.
I work mainly with adults and late adolescents, individually, in couples and in groups. The areas I specialize in are sexual issues (individuals or couples), adults molested as children, emotional intimacy, communication, anxiety, depression, self-awareness, and deep and lasting character change. In my 45 years of practicing counseling and psychotherapy I've worked with a wide variety of people of different ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, religions, and those with physical challenges. I find it immensely rewarding to work with people who are actively seeking to resolve problems through increased self-awareness.
(714) 584-4901 View (714) 584-4901
Photo of Harpreet Malla, MA, PhD, Psychologist
Harpreet Malla
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Clients that typically find it rewarding to work with me are people who find themselves tired of trying to "fit" themselves into small spaces that do not truly honor the complexity of who they are spiritually, culturally, or with their sexuality. They want to start living more fully and authentically, and want to free themselves of old relationships and limiting beliefs that keep them stuck in old cycles of habit, obligation, and resentment. They make small changes and build insight over time so they can live more fully, authentically, and intentionally as their embodied selves.
Clients that typically find it rewarding to work with me are people who find themselves tired of trying to "fit" themselves into small spaces that do not truly honor the complexity of who they are spiritually, culturally, or with their sexuality. They want to start living more fully and authentically, and want to free themselves of old relationships and limiting beliefs that keep them stuck in old cycles of habit, obligation, and resentment. They make small changes and build insight over time so they can live more fully, authentically, and intentionally as their embodied selves.
(747) 800-4776 View (747) 800-4776
Photo of Uyen Bui, PhD, Psychologist
Uyen Bui
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92657  (Online Only)
With 20 years experience, I am dedicated to providing genuine, compassionate and effective care to my clients specializing in: healthy relationships, couples therapy, sex therapy, life transitions, identity, self-esteem, stress management/anxiety, and mindfulness. My belief is that therapy is one of many possible paths to self growth. I see my role as a therapist to advocate for my clients, empowering them to make healthy changes and choices by providing support and different perspectives. Witnessing my clients transcend life challenges is always inspiring and an honor.
With 20 years experience, I am dedicated to providing genuine, compassionate and effective care to my clients specializing in: healthy relationships, couples therapy, sex therapy, life transitions, identity, self-esteem, stress management/anxiety, and mindfulness. My belief is that therapy is one of many possible paths to self growth. I see my role as a therapist to advocate for my clients, empowering them to make healthy changes and choices by providing support and different perspectives. Witnessing my clients transcend life challenges is always inspiring and an honor.
(949) 407-5462 View (949) 407-5462
Photo of Jodie Shea - Pillow Talk Therapy, LMFT, she/her, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pillow Talk Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, she/her
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92657  (Online Only)
I have training and experience in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Couples and Sex Therapy through American Association of Couples and Sex Therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! Schedule free 15 min consultation at www.pillowtalktherapy.com to start! Couples/Relationship Therapy (LGBTQIA+ and poly/kink affirming), Sex Therapy (physical/emotional issues affecting sexual relationship), Trauma (IFS); PRIVATE PAY ONLY (can provide superbill but cannot guarantee insurance payment). Currently offering telehealth only for clients within California and Florida.
I have training and experience in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Couples and Sex Therapy through American Association of Couples and Sex Therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! Schedule free 15 min consultation at www.pillowtalktherapy.com to start! Couples/Relationship Therapy (LGBTQIA+ and poly/kink affirming), Sex Therapy (physical/emotional issues affecting sexual relationship), Trauma (IFS); PRIVATE PAY ONLY (can provide superbill but cannot guarantee insurance payment). Currently offering telehealth only for clients within California and Florida.
(714) 989-7369 View (714) 989-7369
Photo of Patricia Contreras, MS, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Contreras
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Are you up late again tonight thinking about this? Is your sex life making you feel lonely, sad or disconnected from your partner? Would you like to increase your communication and pleasure? Are you missing that intimacy and sexual connection? Perhaps you are trying to figure out why your relationships aren't working or distressed over sex/porn. I want to help you get beyond betrayals, anxiety, and past traumas that may be hindering your relationships and intimacy. I specialize in sex therapy and trauma and I can help. Sex talk can be uncomfortable, I provide a non-judgmental place to explore these sensitive issues with you.
Are you up late again tonight thinking about this? Is your sex life making you feel lonely, sad or disconnected from your partner? Would you like to increase your communication and pleasure? Are you missing that intimacy and sexual connection? Perhaps you are trying to figure out why your relationships aren't working or distressed over sex/porn. I want to help you get beyond betrayals, anxiety, and past traumas that may be hindering your relationships and intimacy. I specialize in sex therapy and trauma and I can help. Sex talk can be uncomfortable, I provide a non-judgmental place to explore these sensitive issues with you.
(949) 424-8318 View (949) 424-8318
Photo of Robyn Buresh, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robyn Buresh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Looking for a sex-positive therapist? I offer an open and accepting space in which you can be, or discover, your most authentic self. If you are struggling with issues of identity, have been harmed by messages about your body or sex, or are living with the aftermath of a traumatic event, I am here to offer my training and expertise to help you move from a place of pain and hardship into a place of peace and connection, both with me and with yourself. Therapy is more than just a place for talking. This is a place to experience safety and being seen. Allow me to join you on your journey of deeper introspection and self awareness.
Looking for a sex-positive therapist? I offer an open and accepting space in which you can be, or discover, your most authentic self. If you are struggling with issues of identity, have been harmed by messages about your body or sex, or are living with the aftermath of a traumatic event, I am here to offer my training and expertise to help you move from a place of pain and hardship into a place of peace and connection, both with me and with yourself. Therapy is more than just a place for talking. This is a place to experience safety and being seen. Allow me to join you on your journey of deeper introspection and self awareness.
(760) 652-9680 View (760) 652-9680
Photo of Riley Annunziato, MA, AMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Riley Annunziato
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92661
As a dedicated sex therapist specializing in couples' intimacy and relationship dynamics, I am committed to helping you and your partner navigate your unique journey towards a more fulfilling and satisfying connection.
Welcome, my name is Riley. Let's talk about relationships and sexual wellness. I provide a wholistic approach in navigating a path of confidence and joy with individuals and couples. I provide guidance with relationships and under that umbrella includes: sexual health & functioning along with emotional & physical intimacy. When in the therapy room, you can expect an empathetic, attuned and hope filled human being.
As a dedicated sex therapist specializing in couples' intimacy and relationship dynamics, I am committed to helping you and your partner navigate your unique journey towards a more fulfilling and satisfying connection.
Welcome, my name is Riley. Let's talk about relationships and sexual wellness. I provide a wholistic approach in navigating a path of confidence and joy with individuals and couples. I provide guidance with relationships and under that umbrella includes: sexual health & functioning along with emotional & physical intimacy. When in the therapy room, you can expect an empathetic, attuned and hope filled human being.
(949) 919-7817 View (949) 919-7817
Photo of Sarah Cabiness- Individual And Relational Specialist, MS, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sarah Cabiness- Individual And Relational Specialist
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92662
Expertise: Sex Therapy- Supporting emotional/physical intimacy, relationships, trauma, identity, kink, stigma, intersex, gender, sex work, pleasure, repression, and expectation.
Lets be real, sometimes therapy is too formal. I value candid communication, so I welcome you to be your authentic self. Whether it’s grieving a loss, sharing a trauma, opening up about intimacy, or breaking relational cycles, they’re part of your life and you deserve to share how you’ve experienced them. Connection is transformative, beautiful, and valuable. I am an inclusive, culturally competent, trauma-informed therapist who curates personalized care by utilizing a collaborative but directive approach. You are multifaceted and unique, I want to ensure your therapy experience is too.
Expertise: Sex Therapy- Supporting emotional/physical intimacy, relationships, trauma, identity, kink, stigma, intersex, gender, sex work, pleasure, repression, and expectation.
Lets be real, sometimes therapy is too formal. I value candid communication, so I welcome you to be your authentic self. Whether it’s grieving a loss, sharing a trauma, opening up about intimacy, or breaking relational cycles, they’re part of your life and you deserve to share how you’ve experienced them. Connection is transformative, beautiful, and valuable. I am an inclusive, culturally competent, trauma-informed therapist who curates personalized care by utilizing a collaborative but directive approach. You are multifaceted and unique, I want to ensure your therapy experience is too.
(213) 583-1199 View (213) 583-1199
Photo of Maha Nasrallah-Babenko, PhD, Psychologist
Maha Nasrallah-Babenko
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92661
Talking about sex is difficult, and seeking help can be a vulnerable experience.
Many people experience challenges in their sexual and relationship life and might be feeling alone or ashamed. Maybe you are struggling with intercourse, desire, arousal, pleasure, pain, performance anxiety, or shame around sex. Or maybe you've been disconnected from your partner, feel stuck in your conflict patterns, or are going through transitions or difficulties in your relationship. Everyone deserves a healthy and fulfilling intimate life. No matter your age or relationship stage, you can create a more meaningful and positive connection with yourself and your partner.
Talking about sex is difficult, and seeking help can be a vulnerable experience.
Many people experience challenges in their sexual and relationship life and might be feeling alone or ashamed. Maybe you are struggling with intercourse, desire, arousal, pleasure, pain, performance anxiety, or shame around sex. Or maybe you've been disconnected from your partner, feel stuck in your conflict patterns, or are going through transitions or difficulties in your relationship. Everyone deserves a healthy and fulfilling intimate life. No matter your age or relationship stage, you can create a more meaningful and positive connection with yourself and your partner.
(323) 443-3324 View (323) 443-3324
Photo of Jessica Pourhassanian, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jessica Pourhassanian
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92657
I believe that every individual is unique and has the ability to transform their lives with the right care and support. I provide a sex-positive, culturally humble, non-judgmental approach to helping people with sexual needs, desires and expressions. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and polycules as well as adolescents, young adults and mature clients with various life transitions. My goal is to support every client in discovering and expressing their most authentic self to the world.
I believe that every individual is unique and has the ability to transform their lives with the right care and support. I provide a sex-positive, culturally humble, non-judgmental approach to helping people with sexual needs, desires and expressions. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and polycules as well as adolescents, young adults and mature clients with various life transitions. My goal is to support every client in discovering and expressing their most authentic self to the world.
(949) 694-3561 View (949) 694-3561
Photo of Julia Craddolph, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julia Craddolph
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92657  (Online Only)
NOW accepting new clients online in California. My goal is to help BIPOC couples reconnect and rebuild their relationship, partnership or marriage. I specialize in repair after an affair, rebuilding trust, strengthening the emotional bond, premarital concerns, and rekindling sex/physical intimacy in the relationship. Many of my couples finally start to feel more loved, heard and appreciated. I want couples to feel safe enough to express their most vulnerable emotions with me, and more importantly, with their partner. Many couples feel hopeless when starting therapy and I’ll be happy to help bring back that hope.
NOW accepting new clients online in California. My goal is to help BIPOC couples reconnect and rebuild their relationship, partnership or marriage. I specialize in repair after an affair, rebuilding trust, strengthening the emotional bond, premarital concerns, and rekindling sex/physical intimacy in the relationship. Many of my couples finally start to feel more loved, heard and appreciated. I want couples to feel safe enough to express their most vulnerable emotions with me, and more importantly, with their partner. Many couples feel hopeless when starting therapy and I’ll be happy to help bring back that hope.
(562) 784-5411 View (562) 784-5411
Photo of Valeriya Pestrikova - Anxiety - Couples - Sex Therapy, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Valeriya Pestrikova - Anxiety - Couples - Sex Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660  (Online Only)
I offer therapy for individuals and couples, specializing in alternative lifestyles, including non-monogamy, polyamory, BDSM/kink, and sex work. Utilizing Gottman's couples methods, I address relationship and intimacy issues, helping you navigate the complexities of your unique lifestyle and its societal pressures with understanding and depth. My work is committed to promoting emotional resilience and connection within a safe, non-judgemental, supportive environment. Let’s collaborate to foster your growth and well-being. Together, we'll explore new paths to enhance your relationships and personal growth.
I offer therapy for individuals and couples, specializing in alternative lifestyles, including non-monogamy, polyamory, BDSM/kink, and sex work. Utilizing Gottman's couples methods, I address relationship and intimacy issues, helping you navigate the complexities of your unique lifestyle and its societal pressures with understanding and depth. My work is committed to promoting emotional resilience and connection within a safe, non-judgemental, supportive environment. Let’s collaborate to foster your growth and well-being. Together, we'll explore new paths to enhance your relationships and personal growth.
(424) 392-6764 View (424) 392-6764
Photo of Dr. Shannon Chavez, PsyD, MA, LCP, CST, Psychologist
Dr. Shannon Chavez
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, LCP, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92661
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in California and a Certified Sex Therapist and Clinical Sexologist with a certification in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Sexual Disorders.
Do you have a sexual issue that is holding you back from experiencing your full sexual potential? Let's work together to improve your sexual health and overcome sexual concerns. Sex begins in the brain, our biggest sexual organ. Our work together will explore your thoughts, beliefs, and values around sexuality. Together we will break down the stigmas around sex and create a personalized plan to improve sexual functioning that can include therapy, coaching, and sex education. My practice focuses on sexual health and pleasure enhancement as a path to improving overall health and wellness.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in California and a Certified Sex Therapist and Clinical Sexologist with a certification in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Sexual Disorders.
Do you have a sexual issue that is holding you back from experiencing your full sexual potential? Let's work together to improve your sexual health and overcome sexual concerns. Sex begins in the brain, our biggest sexual organ. Our work together will explore your thoughts, beliefs, and values around sexuality. Together we will break down the stigmas around sex and create a personalized plan to improve sexual functioning that can include therapy, coaching, and sex education. My practice focuses on sexual health and pleasure enhancement as a path to improving overall health and wellness.
(310) 928-9284 View (310) 928-9284
Photo of Melissa McManis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa McManis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92662
I am a trauma informed sex therapist. I specialize in helping individuals navigate the sensitive issues related to erotic recovery and sex. Many of my clients struggle with shame and guilt. You may experience a range of issues related to your sexuality, such as: sexual addiction or compulsive behavior, trauma related to sexual abuse or assault, anxiety or depression related to your sexual experiences, relationship issues related to sexuality or intimacy, shame or guilt related to your sexual desires or fantasies or relationships.
I am a trauma informed sex therapist. I specialize in helping individuals navigate the sensitive issues related to erotic recovery and sex. Many of my clients struggle with shame and guilt. You may experience a range of issues related to your sexuality, such as: sexual addiction or compulsive behavior, trauma related to sexual abuse or assault, anxiety or depression related to your sexual experiences, relationship issues related to sexuality or intimacy, shame or guilt related to your sexual desires or fantasies or relationships.
(916) 461-8755 View (916) 461-8755
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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.