Sex Therapists in Saint Louis County, MO

Photo of Rafaella Smith-Fiallo - Healing Exchange LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Healing Exchange LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Are you ready to set healthy boundaries in your relationships? Have you been wanting to explore your sexuality but didn't know where to start? Is your non-monogamous relationship experiencing friction? Maybe you are the survivor, strong friend, and problem solver who appears to have it all together. Yet on the inside you feel overwhelmed while also wondering, "Is this worth going to therapy for?" If your boundaries leave you questioning yourself, if you want to explore your sexuality, or if you and your partner(s) want support, it's worth going to therapy for. Our relationship, sexuality, and trauma experts are here for you.
Are you ready to set healthy boundaries in your relationships? Have you been wanting to explore your sexuality but didn't know where to start? Is your non-monogamous relationship experiencing friction? Maybe you are the survivor, strong friend, and problem solver who appears to have it all together. Yet on the inside you feel overwhelmed while also wondering, "Is this worth going to therapy for?" If your boundaries leave you questioning yourself, if you want to explore your sexuality, or if you and your partner(s) want support, it's worth going to therapy for. Our relationship, sexuality, and trauma experts are here for you.
(314) 593-2416 View (314) 593-2416
Photo of Dr. A. P. Carmichael, PhD, MEd, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. A. P. Carmichael
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MEd, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Waitlist for new clients
I hold a PhD in Human Sexuality Research as well as a master’s degree in Human Sexuality Education from Widener University in Philadelphia.
Relationships are part of what makes us human. We thrive when connected with others. I am passionate about helping people create and maintain healthy and loving relationships. I work with couples, families, and individuals and have strong experience working with LGBTQ clients. I make it a priority to create a safe space for all of my clients. It is through this atmosphere of acceptance that we can work together to create true change and growth. I work with individuals, families and couples who are going through a crisis, or those who are simply looking to strengthen their relationships.
I hold a PhD in Human Sexuality Research as well as a master’s degree in Human Sexuality Education from Widener University in Philadelphia.
Relationships are part of what makes us human. We thrive when connected with others. I am passionate about helping people create and maintain healthy and loving relationships. I work with couples, families, and individuals and have strong experience working with LGBTQ clients. I make it a priority to create a safe space for all of my clients. It is through this atmosphere of acceptance that we can work together to create true change and growth. I work with individuals, families and couples who are going through a crisis, or those who are simply looking to strengthen their relationships.
(314) 682-4859 View (314) 682-4859
Photo of Tyler J Sparks, MA, LPC, NCC, CCSAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tyler J Sparks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCSAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kirkwood, MO 63122
I also have a special passion for helping the spouses of sex addicts wade through the crisis and trauma of discovering their partner's infidelity.
Men. Tired of losing the battle to porn and sexual acting out? I specialize in helping men break free from sexual enslavement through individual and group therapy. Because I am passionate about this area I always have groups forming. If you are ready to take the next step toward freedom, contact me.
I also have a special passion for helping the spouses of sex addicts wade through the crisis and trauma of discovering their partner's infidelity.
Men. Tired of losing the battle to porn and sexual acting out? I specialize in helping men break free from sexual enslavement through individual and group therapy. Because I am passionate about this area I always have groups forming. If you are ready to take the next step toward freedom, contact me.
(314) 881-8538 View (314) 881-8538
Photo of Karen Banks, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Banks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63105  (Online Only)
I work with clients experiencing emotional, cultural, sexual health, and relationship concerns. We spend time processing your situation and feelings and finding solutions that work for you. I recognize each client is an individual and treat them as such. Let's work together to help you walk in your truth. I've completed all 3 levels of Gottman Method Couples Therapy training, Treating Affairs & Trauma, Couples and Addiction Recovery, CBT for Insomnia, and am enrolled in Sex Therapy Certification through SHA. I also enjoy working with people in poly and ethically non-monogamous relationships and individuals in the kink community.
I work with clients experiencing emotional, cultural, sexual health, and relationship concerns. We spend time processing your situation and feelings and finding solutions that work for you. I recognize each client is an individual and treat them as such. Let's work together to help you walk in your truth. I've completed all 3 levels of Gottman Method Couples Therapy training, Treating Affairs & Trauma, Couples and Addiction Recovery, CBT for Insomnia, and am enrolled in Sex Therapy Certification through SHA. I also enjoy working with people in poly and ethically non-monogamous relationships and individuals in the kink community.
(314) 279-3455 View (314) 279-3455
Photo of Rachel Benson, MEd, BCBA, LBA, CSE
Rachel Benson
MEd, BCBA, LBA, CSE
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63139  (Online Only)
Sexual Behavior Analysis (SBA) is an evidence-based and humanistic approach which uses empirically-sound practices from Sex Therapy and Sexuality Education.
I work with clients of all backgrounds, sexualities, genders and relationship dynamics. Utilizing effective methodology, I work with clients on sexual and/or sociosexual concerns, including low desire, vaginal pain, poor impulsivity control, coming out, inner shame and exploring new dynamics and/or kinks.
Sexual Behavior Analysis (SBA) is an evidence-based and humanistic approach which uses empirically-sound practices from Sex Therapy and Sexuality Education.
I work with clients of all backgrounds, sexualities, genders and relationship dynamics. Utilizing effective methodology, I work with clients on sexual and/or sociosexual concerns, including low desire, vaginal pain, poor impulsivity control, coming out, inner shame and exploring new dynamics and/or kinks.
(314) 526-3920 View (314) 526-3920
Photo of Marina Klier, LCSW, MSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marina Klier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63139
If you are navigating sexual, romantic, or emotional difficulties I am here to help. Struggling with identity and authenticity in a sex negative, stigmatizing society can be an isolating experience. You and any partners need an affirming space to explore the full bounds of your potential. A validating and inclusive space can help you feel comfortable questioning the social constructs and relational education you’ve received that may no longer serve you. You will receive guidance in existing confidently and finding the connection you seek. You deserve someone who is on your side, rooting for your success, whatever that may look like.
If you are navigating sexual, romantic, or emotional difficulties I am here to help. Struggling with identity and authenticity in a sex negative, stigmatizing society can be an isolating experience. You and any partners need an affirming space to explore the full bounds of your potential. A validating and inclusive space can help you feel comfortable questioning the social constructs and relational education you’ve received that may no longer serve you. You will receive guidance in existing confidently and finding the connection you seek. You deserve someone who is on your side, rooting for your success, whatever that may look like.
(314) 296-3222 View (314) 296-3222
Photo of Lily Pernoud, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lily Pernoud
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Kirkwood, MO 63122
She also has specialized training in eating disorders, relationship counseling, and sex therapy.
Lily has over a decade of experience serving individuals, couples, adolescents, families & relationship systems. She specializes in eating disorders, sexual disorders and relationship issues. Further, she is skilled in addressing mood disorders (anxiety, depression, OCD), trauma-related disorders (sexual, physical, emotional abuse, PTSD), and personality disorders (borderline personality disorder, dissociative identity disorder). Her integrative approach includes Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Systems Theory, the Gottman Method, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and other modalities in order to meet each client's individual needs.
She also has specialized training in eating disorders, relationship counseling, and sex therapy.
Lily has over a decade of experience serving individuals, couples, adolescents, families & relationship systems. She specializes in eating disorders, sexual disorders and relationship issues. Further, she is skilled in addressing mood disorders (anxiety, depression, OCD), trauma-related disorders (sexual, physical, emotional abuse, PTSD), and personality disorders (borderline personality disorder, dissociative identity disorder). Her integrative approach includes Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Systems Theory, the Gottman Method, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and other modalities in order to meet each client's individual needs.
(314) 934-2787 View (314) 934-2787
Photo of Kyla Hadenfeldt, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kyla Hadenfeldt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63118  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My previous training includes cognitive-behavioral therapies, relational-cultural therapy, mindfulness, self-compassion, and sexuality.
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. Are you struggling with painful thoughts and emotions? Maybe the pandemic has created some new problems for you, or brought up old stuff. Or perhaps, you're doing okay in your day-to-day life, but have been wondering if therapy could help you do some deeper work. In any case, I'm here to help. I support folks in learning more effective ways to work through their emotional struggles, and creating a life of meaning, pleasure, and authenticity. I also enjoy working with folks on identity, life transitions, personal growth, and sexual self-empowerment.
My previous training includes cognitive-behavioral therapies, relational-cultural therapy, mindfulness, self-compassion, and sexuality.
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. Are you struggling with painful thoughts and emotions? Maybe the pandemic has created some new problems for you, or brought up old stuff. Or perhaps, you're doing okay in your day-to-day life, but have been wondering if therapy could help you do some deeper work. In any case, I'm here to help. I support folks in learning more effective ways to work through their emotional struggles, and creating a life of meaning, pleasure, and authenticity. I also enjoy working with folks on identity, life transitions, personal growth, and sexual self-empowerment.
(314) 207-7894 View (314) 207-7894
Photo of Melissa G Chosid - St. Louis Couples Counseling , MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
St. Louis Couples Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kirkwood, MO 63122
Let's start here: you are not broken, and nothing is wrong with you. But if you have felt disconnected from your own sexuality or like there's a canyon of space between you and your partner, I can help. Many barriers in the way of our sexual thriving are outdated or inaccurate cultural, societal, and internal core messages that block us up. Sex is supposed to be free, playful, and uninhibited. If that sounds like a completely foreign world, it may be time to reexamine your own relationship to eroticism.
Let's start here: you are not broken, and nothing is wrong with you. But if you have felt disconnected from your own sexuality or like there's a canyon of space between you and your partner, I can help. Many barriers in the way of our sexual thriving are outdated or inaccurate cultural, societal, and internal core messages that block us up. Sex is supposed to be free, playful, and uninhibited. If that sounds like a completely foreign world, it may be time to reexamine your own relationship to eroticism.
(314) 328-8593 View (314) 328-8593
Photo of Kat Seal, LMSW
Kat Seal
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Feeling fractured from your once-strong sense of self can be confusing, isolating, and painful. Oftentimes these feelings can arise from societal pressures to conform, living in a sex-negative society, or relationship and systemic trauma. Sex & relationship therapy can be a good fit for improving the relational quality of your life and accessing desire as a tool for living well. I specialize in supporting individuals and relationships (of all styles) who struggle to access authenticity and wholeness in their daily lives. I work best with engaged clients who practice active self reflection.
Feeling fractured from your once-strong sense of self can be confusing, isolating, and painful. Oftentimes these feelings can arise from societal pressures to conform, living in a sex-negative society, or relationship and systemic trauma. Sex & relationship therapy can be a good fit for improving the relational quality of your life and accessing desire as a tool for living well. I specialize in supporting individuals and relationships (of all styles) who struggle to access authenticity and wholeness in their daily lives. I work best with engaged clients who practice active self reflection.
(314) 897-4049 View (314) 897-4049
Photo of Megan MacKenzie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan MacKenzie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
As a relationship, sex, and gender therapist, I help couples, relationships, and individuals explore explore identities, experience greater pleasure and intimacy, and recalibrate toward more authentic, compassionate, and courageous lives. I am passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ folks in exploring and healing from the negative impacts of internalized homophobia and transphobia as they often manifest in shame, guilt, and low self-esteem.
As a relationship, sex, and gender therapist, I help couples, relationships, and individuals explore explore identities, experience greater pleasure and intimacy, and recalibrate toward more authentic, compassionate, and courageous lives. I am passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ folks in exploring and healing from the negative impacts of internalized homophobia and transphobia as they often manifest in shame, guilt, and low self-esteem.
(314) 626-0543 View (314) 626-0543
Photo of Angela Lee Skurtu - St. Louis Marriage Therapy, LLC, MEd, LMFT, AASECT, Marriage & Family Therapist
St. Louis Marriage Therapy, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT, AASECT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chesterfield, MO 63017
I am a nationally Certified Sex Therapist with AASECT.
I love working with best friends who are trying to get their sexual spark back. Many of my clients have been together for years and actually get along pretty well. They have good communication, they are partnered well and they treat each other with respect. However, they struggle to want to have sex with one another. They love each other and enjoy each other's time, but they struggle to take sexual chances, try new things and have fun in the bedroom. They essentially have "friend zoned" each other. My work is to help give these couples that special nudge to make sex a priority and enjoy sex again as a team.
I am a nationally Certified Sex Therapist with AASECT.
I love working with best friends who are trying to get their sexual spark back. Many of my clients have been together for years and actually get along pretty well. They have good communication, they are partnered well and they treat each other with respect. However, they struggle to want to have sex with one another. They love each other and enjoy each other's time, but they struggle to take sexual chances, try new things and have fun in the bedroom. They essentially have "friend zoned" each other. My work is to help give these couples that special nudge to make sex a priority and enjoy sex again as a team.
(314) 403-1960 View (314) 403-1960
Photo of Nicholas Maio-Aether, MAMFT, MSPSY, LBA, CSC, IBA
Nicholas Maio-Aether
MAMFT, MSPSY, LBA, CSC, IBA
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63139  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Sexual Behavior Analysis (SBA) is an evidence-based and humanistic approach in which empirically-sound best practices from Sex Therapy, Sexuality Education, and Couple's Work are combined and presented within the simple, effective, and practical framework of Behavior Analysis (BA).
NOTE: I do have a waitlist, currently, but I am Clinical Director/Supervisor of some amazing clinicians who adhere to the same models and philosophy as I. Utilizing systemic principles and effective methodology, I work with clients of all backgrounds, sexualities, genders, and relationship dynamics. Clients come to me to work on sexual and/or sociosexual concerns, including low desire, infidelity, lack of partnership skills, poor impulsivity control, coming out, inner shame, exploring new dynamics and/or kinks, and also for vaginal pain and erectile dysfunction.
Sexual Behavior Analysis (SBA) is an evidence-based and humanistic approach in which empirically-sound best practices from Sex Therapy, Sexuality Education, and Couple's Work are combined and presented within the simple, effective, and practical framework of Behavior Analysis (BA).
NOTE: I do have a waitlist, currently, but I am Clinical Director/Supervisor of some amazing clinicians who adhere to the same models and philosophy as I. Utilizing systemic principles and effective methodology, I work with clients of all backgrounds, sexualities, genders, and relationship dynamics. Clients come to me to work on sexual and/or sociosexual concerns, including low desire, infidelity, lack of partnership skills, poor impulsivity control, coming out, inner shame, exploring new dynamics and/or kinks, and also for vaginal pain and erectile dysfunction.
(314) 310-6534 View (314) 310-6534
Photo of Melony Crayton, PLPC
Melony Crayton
PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
I work with clients through trauma and PTSD, relationship issues, sex therapy, and marriage counseling.
Do you struggle with really saying what it is you want? Is not saying how you feel causing tension and conflict in your relationships? Are you exhausted and frustrated by feeling like you can’t live the life you want? And it seems like almost everyone expects you to do it all and be someone completely different than who you really want to show up as. Maybe you’ve been daydreaming about how it would feel for your relationships to be even a fraction better? But now, more than ever, you are feeling stuck, anxious, or hopeless about overcoming your different relationship stressors at work, with your kids, or even in bed.
I work with clients through trauma and PTSD, relationship issues, sex therapy, and marriage counseling.
Do you struggle with really saying what it is you want? Is not saying how you feel causing tension and conflict in your relationships? Are you exhausted and frustrated by feeling like you can’t live the life you want? And it seems like almost everyone expects you to do it all and be someone completely different than who you really want to show up as. Maybe you’ve been daydreaming about how it would feel for your relationships to be even a fraction better? But now, more than ever, you are feeling stuck, anxious, or hopeless about overcoming your different relationship stressors at work, with your kids, or even in bed.
(314) 912-2581 View (314) 912-2581
Photo of Keegan Esping, MA, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Keegan Esping
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63118
Keegan knows the road that leads you into the counseling room can be difficult and painful. Whether the catalyst is some form of trauma, abuse, grief, challenges involving sex and sexuality or a desire to seek greater health and self-awareness, this decision is courageous. In counseling, Keegan blends elements of person-centered theory, internal family systems and knowledge about trauma, attachment and family dynamics into an integrative holistic approach.
Keegan knows the road that leads you into the counseling room can be difficult and painful. Whether the catalyst is some form of trauma, abuse, grief, challenges involving sex and sexuality or a desire to seek greater health and self-awareness, this decision is courageous. In counseling, Keegan blends elements of person-centered theory, internal family systems and knowledge about trauma, attachment and family dynamics into an integrative holistic approach.
(314) 907-0874 View (314) 907-0874
Photo of Katie Heiden-Rootes, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katie Heiden-Rootes
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kirkwood, MO 63122
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Marital & Family Therapist (MFT) and an approved supervisor through the State of Missouri Board of MFT and the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy. My clinical experience is with individuals, couples, and families related to sexuality, communication, conflict, and parent-child relationships with queer & trans youth. I utilize emotionally-focused, attachment-based, and playful interventions for unsticking the stuck parts of life. I have extensive couple & sexuality training and experience as a certified Sex Therapist through the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors, and Therapists.
I am a Licensed Marital & Family Therapist (MFT) and an approved supervisor through the State of Missouri Board of MFT and the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy. My clinical experience is with individuals, couples, and families related to sexuality, communication, conflict, and parent-child relationships with queer & trans youth. I utilize emotionally-focused, attachment-based, and playful interventions for unsticking the stuck parts of life. I have extensive couple & sexuality training and experience as a certified Sex Therapist through the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors, and Therapists.
(314) 375-4136 View (314) 375-4136
Photo of Jane Henderson Burnham, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jane Henderson Burnham
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63139  (Online Only)
I specialize in supporting clients who are facing challenges related to sexuality, relationships, identity, and self-esteem. I love working with clients who want to develop a more intentional connection to their bodies, sexualities, and the people they love.
I specialize in supporting clients who are facing challenges related to sexuality, relationships, identity, and self-esteem. I love working with clients who want to develop a more intentional connection to their bodies, sexualities, and the people they love.
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Photo of Steven J Fields, LPC, NCC, CFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steven J Fields
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CFT
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63110  (Online Only)
I am a sex therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Missouri and Virginia, who is a National Board Certified Counselor (NCC), a Certified Family Counselor (CFT), and a Certified Grief Counseling Specialist (CGCS).
As we live, we write the stories of our lives. Sometimes the pen gets too heavy. Sometimes we don’t know where to start… or how to continue. And then there’s writer’s block, the faltering of the creative process somewhere in our hearts, our minds, our bodies producing dis-orders and dis-eases. Maybe you have lost a Loved one. Maybe you’re starting a new relationship. Maybe you want a new job. Maybe you just want change. I believe the remedy is in the beliefs/feelings, thoughts, and behaviors fueling the writer’s block or dis-ease, and I am a dis-ease specialist.
I am a sex therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Missouri and Virginia, who is a National Board Certified Counselor (NCC), a Certified Family Counselor (CFT), and a Certified Grief Counseling Specialist (CGCS).
As we live, we write the stories of our lives. Sometimes the pen gets too heavy. Sometimes we don’t know where to start… or how to continue. And then there’s writer’s block, the faltering of the creative process somewhere in our hearts, our minds, our bodies producing dis-orders and dis-eases. Maybe you have lost a Loved one. Maybe you’re starting a new relationship. Maybe you want a new job. Maybe you just want change. I believe the remedy is in the beliefs/feelings, thoughts, and behaviors fueling the writer’s block or dis-ease, and I am a dis-ease specialist.
(757) 300-5901 View (757) 300-5901
Photo of Christianne M Judy, LCSW, CGT, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christianne M Judy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGT, CST
Verified Verified
Ladue, MO 63124
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Certified Gottman Therapist using research based interventions with couples that really work! If you are having difficulties in your life with relationships or your marriage I will help you gain knowledge that can transform your relationships into what you would like them to be. It is only through self knowledge that change can take place. While helping with your relationship, I can also help with your sex life as well as a Certified AASECT Sex Therapist. This is an area of our life that we are taught to keep private and quiet. But, don't suffer in silence.
I am a Certified Gottman Therapist using research based interventions with couples that really work! If you are having difficulties in your life with relationships or your marriage I will help you gain knowledge that can transform your relationships into what you would like them to be. It is only through self knowledge that change can take place. While helping with your relationship, I can also help with your sex life as well as a Certified AASECT Sex Therapist. This is an area of our life that we are taught to keep private and quiet. But, don't suffer in silence.
(618) 509-9613 View (618) 509-9613
Photo of Linda Weiner, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Weiner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63131
Waitlist for new clients
As a licensed sex therapist I know your sexuality is a legitimate concern and believe that it is your right to receive expert knowledge when seeking assistance for relationship or sexual difficulties. I offer psychotherapy for general concerns, relationship coaching, couples' intensives and retreats as well as educational opportunities for professionals and groups. My couples' intensives and retreats teach and support ongoing intimacy in your relationship through mind/body connection and heart-centered relationship skills. My individual and couples therapy is designed to meet your goals and is a mutual undertaking between us.
As a licensed sex therapist I know your sexuality is a legitimate concern and believe that it is your right to receive expert knowledge when seeking assistance for relationship or sexual difficulties. I offer psychotherapy for general concerns, relationship coaching, couples' intensives and retreats as well as educational opportunities for professionals and groups. My couples' intensives and retreats teach and support ongoing intimacy in your relationship through mind/body connection and heart-centered relationship skills. My individual and couples therapy is designed to meet your goals and is a mutual undertaking between us.
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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.