Sex Therapists in Clayton, NC

Photo of Nicole McMinn, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole McMinn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clayton, NC 27520
Waitlist for new clients
I have been a mental health professional for 9 years, and specialize in sex therapy and sexual health across the lifespan, genders, and lifestyles.
There are many reasons you may have for seeking help. Maybe you or your loved one are struggling with depression, anxiety, or uncertainty about the person you are or the person you want to become. Perhaps you are seeking to navigate discussions about sexual health with your teens, loved ones, or intimate partner. There are a multitude of stressors and hardships these days, and we want to assure you that we are here for you.
I have been a mental health professional for 9 years, and specialize in sex therapy and sexual health across the lifespan, genders, and lifestyles.
There are many reasons you may have for seeking help. Maybe you or your loved one are struggling with depression, anxiety, or uncertainty about the person you are or the person you want to become. Perhaps you are seeking to navigate discussions about sexual health with your teens, loved ones, or intimate partner. There are a multitude of stressors and hardships these days, and we want to assure you that we are here for you.
(919) 759-5306 View (919) 759-5306
Photo of Sasha B Davenport - Uplifting Lives and Services, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Uplifting Lives and Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Clayton, NC 27527
Currently getting trained as a Certified Sex Offender Treatment Professional.
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (Philippians 4:13) Non-judgment, morally supportive and passionate private practice that will help you to get through life struggles. You are the most important subject matter during all counseling sessions. I am a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist that focuses on the person. Thinking outside of the box is of great importance to help all types of situations. Uplifting Lives and Services also helps interns and residents with supervision. We provide group therapy, substance abuse services and can connect you to other community service providers.
Currently getting trained as a Certified Sex Offender Treatment Professional.
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (Philippians 4:13) Non-judgment, morally supportive and passionate private practice that will help you to get through life struggles. You are the most important subject matter during all counseling sessions. I am a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist that focuses on the person. Thinking outside of the box is of great importance to help all types of situations. Uplifting Lives and Services also helps interns and residents with supervision. We provide group therapy, substance abuse services and can connect you to other community service providers.
(804) 593-0424 View (804) 593-0424
Photo of Phillip C. Smith, LMFT, CCATP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Phillip C. Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCATP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clayton, NC 27520  (Online Only)
HEALING is available NOW...if you choose to accept it! Today, so many people are dealing with hurts that constantly impact their daily lives. Some struggle silently while others lash out looking for relief. Well, you can find that healing relief here. Therapy will allow you a safe place to express yourself while learning valuable skills to help you live a more balanced, enjoyable life.
HEALING is available NOW...if you choose to accept it! Today, so many people are dealing with hurts that constantly impact their daily lives. Some struggle silently while others lash out looking for relief. Well, you can find that healing relief here. Therapy will allow you a safe place to express yourself while learning valuable skills to help you live a more balanced, enjoyable life.
(984) 646-5617 View (984) 646-5617
Photo of Bianca Olivares, MSW
Bianca Olivares
LCSW Associate, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clayton, NC 27520
Humans will be human. This can come with worry, pain, joy, and an infinite spectrum of emotions in between. Maybe life has presented challenges to you, your family, or your relationship that feel overwhelming to navigate alone. Maybe there is a generational pattern that you wish to shift. You are not alone! I work with kids (8 and up), teens, adult individuals, and couples around connecting to their identity including racial trauma and stress, self-esteem, life transitions, addressing complex patterns and dynamics, and with those processing childhood trauma. I am accepting weekly and biweekly clients between the hours of 2-7p.
Humans will be human. This can come with worry, pain, joy, and an infinite spectrum of emotions in between. Maybe life has presented challenges to you, your family, or your relationship that feel overwhelming to navigate alone. Maybe there is a generational pattern that you wish to shift. You are not alone! I work with kids (8 and up), teens, adult individuals, and couples around connecting to their identity including racial trauma and stress, self-esteem, life transitions, addressing complex patterns and dynamics, and with those processing childhood trauma. I am accepting weekly and biweekly clients between the hours of 2-7p.
(919) 582-5040 View (919) 582-5040
Photo of Renee Watson Adams - Living Beyond It Counseling and Consultations, MS, LCMHCSS, LCAS, CCS
Living Beyond It Counseling and Consultations
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MS, LCMHCSS, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Clayton, NC 27520
Our Therapists are Accepting Medicaid and ChampVA....You Can Live Beyond It ... Let us show you how! We have amazing therapist with skills to help you refresh, be happy and find pleasure in life again. If you have never engaged in counseling before, we are easy to talk to. If you have been in therapy before, we will be your last therapist. We listen with unconditional acceptance to assist you in finding solutions and coping skills for that difficult situation you are going through! Email me or follow this link to schedule your appointment NOW www.therapyportal.com/p/reneewatson
Our Therapists are Accepting Medicaid and ChampVA....You Can Live Beyond It ... Let us show you how! We have amazing therapist with skills to help you refresh, be happy and find pleasure in life again. If you have never engaged in counseling before, we are easy to talk to. If you have been in therapy before, we will be your last therapist. We listen with unconditional acceptance to assist you in finding solutions and coping skills for that difficult situation you are going through! Email me or follow this link to schedule your appointment NOW www.therapyportal.com/p/reneewatson
(919) 939-2843 View (919) 939-2843

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kandice Van Beerschoten Sex Therapist, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kandice Van Beerschoten Sex Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529  (Online Only)
As a Certified Sex Therapist, my specialties are BDSM and ethical non-monogamy - NO JUDGMENT.
Have you lost control? Do you put the needs of others first? Is it hard for you to say "no" to people? Do you feel disconnected? Are your relationships suffering? Your sex life? You're exhausted, ready for something to change, but need to feel confident that your therapist will understand not only your issues, but your lifestyle. If this sounds familiar, then I would love to help you. For two decades, I've worked with people just like you, helping them sort through the intricacies of life and relationships. It's easy to get stuck when you start making changes, but therapy is a great way to move forward.
As a Certified Sex Therapist, my specialties are BDSM and ethical non-monogamy - NO JUDGMENT.
Have you lost control? Do you put the needs of others first? Is it hard for you to say "no" to people? Do you feel disconnected? Are your relationships suffering? Your sex life? You're exhausted, ready for something to change, but need to feel confident that your therapist will understand not only your issues, but your lifestyle. If this sounds familiar, then I would love to help you. For two decades, I've worked with people just like you, helping them sort through the intricacies of life and relationships. It's easy to get stuck when you start making changes, but therapy is a great way to move forward.
(919) 343-9591 View (919) 343-9591
Photo of Linda Sue Fuller, LCMHC, LCASA, NCC, Counselor
Linda Sue Fuller
Counselor, LCMHC, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
Smithfield, NC 27577  (Online Only)
My clients can expect an environment free of judgment, full of understanding and empathy, where they can face the challenges that they have in a supportive environment. My personal background allows me to look at client issues from a different view and offer real world healing that meets the client where they are. My client’s come from various backgrounds, but all seeking to better understand themselves and a better way of coping. Because I’m seeing clients virtually, they feel freer to share more intimate and personal concerns that might be harder to talk about in person.
My clients can expect an environment free of judgment, full of understanding and empathy, where they can face the challenges that they have in a supportive environment. My personal background allows me to look at client issues from a different view and offer real world healing that meets the client where they are. My client’s come from various backgrounds, but all seeking to better understand themselves and a better way of coping. Because I’m seeing clients virtually, they feel freer to share more intimate and personal concerns that might be harder to talk about in person.
(984) 538-9332 View (984) 538-9332
Photo of Sydney Dreyer, LCMHCA
Sydney Dreyer
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
Sydney Dreyer is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina. She graduated from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke with her Master of Arts and Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in December of 2022. Sydney also received a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Criminology from Meredith College in 2018. Sydney has experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and couples and enjoys counseling clients with anxiety, pregnancy/postpartum , depression, grief, trauma, and clients who are looking for coping skills.
Sydney Dreyer is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina. She graduated from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke with her Master of Arts and Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in December of 2022. Sydney also received a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Criminology from Meredith College in 2018. Sydney has experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and couples and enjoys counseling clients with anxiety, pregnancy/postpartum , depression, grief, trauma, and clients who are looking for coping skills.
(919) 629-0940 View (919) 629-0940
Photo of Lastenia Francis, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lastenia Francis
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529  (Online Only)
Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and in my sessions, I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and reactions. I have the tools and professional experience to help you redefine who you are, and make meaningful change.
Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and in my sessions, I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and reactions. I have the tools and professional experience to help you redefine who you are, and make meaningful change.
(919) 246-8771 View (919) 246-8771
Photo of Molly Cummings, MS, LMTFA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Molly Cummings
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMTFA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knightdale, NC 27545
Accepting New Clients! I specialize in working with individuals, couples and families who are experiencing conflict, relational distress, self-doubt, and difficult life transitions. My work focuses on sense of self, personal values, meaningful connections, and empowerment of one's strengths and competencies. Through an attachment lens, I work with children, adolescents, and adults on areas of trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, OCD, intimacy, communication and self confidence. When treating couples, I aid in forming healthy patterns, building empathy, and managing differences.
Accepting New Clients! I specialize in working with individuals, couples and families who are experiencing conflict, relational distress, self-doubt, and difficult life transitions. My work focuses on sense of self, personal values, meaningful connections, and empowerment of one's strengths and competencies. Through an attachment lens, I work with children, adolescents, and adults on areas of trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, OCD, intimacy, communication and self confidence. When treating couples, I aid in forming healthy patterns, building empathy, and managing differences.
(984) 315-7186 View (984) 315-7186
Photo of Yanet Cerda - Lifestyle Consultant Services, MS, LPC, LCAS-A
Lifestyle Consultant Services
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LPC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Knightdale, NC 27545
The mission of Lifestyle Consultant Services is to improve the quality of mental health and substance abuse services by reducing stigma and by protecting the rights of the individual who suffers from mental illness and/or substance abuse. By identifying the pain and suffering experienced by citizens in our community and addressing them with care, we aim to strengthen and promote health and well being. Suboxone is the combination of buprenorphine (partial opioid agonist) and naloxone (opioid antagonist - Narcan). The combination is either 2 mg/0.5 mg or 8 mg/2 mg. Suboxone is a sublingual film (it dissolves under the tongue).
The mission of Lifestyle Consultant Services is to improve the quality of mental health and substance abuse services by reducing stigma and by protecting the rights of the individual who suffers from mental illness and/or substance abuse. By identifying the pain and suffering experienced by citizens in our community and addressing them with care, we aim to strengthen and promote health and well being. Suboxone is the combination of buprenorphine (partial opioid agonist) and naloxone (opioid antagonist - Narcan). The combination is either 2 mg/0.5 mg or 8 mg/2 mg. Suboxone is a sublingual film (it dissolves under the tongue).
(919) 800-0881 View (919) 800-0881
Photo of John H Blackshear, PhD, Psychologist
John H Blackshear
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
My clients have presented with a range of concerns from: Forensic Psychology Marital distress Divorce and Child Custody Resolution Anxiety/Depression Learning/ADHD Issues Eating Disorders Oppositional and Conduct Disorders Sexual Orientation Identity Formation Existential Crises Parenting Struggles -and many other mental distress causing issues.
I am a clinical psychologist. I am available for individual, couples, and family therapy. My preference is to work with adolescents and older clients. I am culturally competent and have had great success working with clients regardless of background or lifestyle orientation. I am also comfortable addressing issues of spirituality, identity formation, and self-actualization.
My clients have presented with a range of concerns from: Forensic Psychology Marital distress Divorce and Child Custody Resolution Anxiety/Depression Learning/ADHD Issues Eating Disorders Oppositional and Conduct Disorders Sexual Orientation Identity Formation Existential Crises Parenting Struggles -and many other mental distress causing issues.
I am a clinical psychologist. I am available for individual, couples, and family therapy. My preference is to work with adolescents and older clients. I am culturally competent and have had great success working with clients regardless of background or lifestyle orientation. I am also comfortable addressing issues of spirituality, identity formation, and self-actualization.
(919) 759-6775 View (919) 759-6775

Online Therapists

Photo of Stephanie Walthour, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Walthour
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408  (Online Only)
Stephanie is a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) as well as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who specializes in improving the relationships and quality of life for her clients. She is dedicated to helping couples and families deal with concerns ranging from sexual issues, abuse, anger management, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ concerns, behavioral, and self-esteem issues.
Stephanie is a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) as well as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who specializes in improving the relationships and quality of life for her clients. She is dedicated to helping couples and families deal with concerns ranging from sexual issues, abuse, anger management, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ concerns, behavioral, and self-esteem issues.
(704) 324-8205 View (704) 324-8205
Photo of Darryl McCarroll, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darryl McCarroll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713
Darryl G. McCarroll (Dr. D) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate. Darryl works with individuals and couples who are in need of an empowering, motivated therapist. With experience in sex therapy as well as treating military soldiers and veterans, men, and seniors, Darryl believes in empowering his clients and assisting them with finding their truth. Darryl attended Western Illinois University for undergraduate studies in Journalism, earned a Master’s degree in Social Work, and completed his Doctoral studies at Walden University with honors.
Darryl G. McCarroll (Dr. D) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate. Darryl works with individuals and couples who are in need of an empowering, motivated therapist. With experience in sex therapy as well as treating military soldiers and veterans, men, and seniors, Darryl believes in empowering his clients and assisting them with finding their truth. Darryl attended Western Illinois University for undergraduate studies in Journalism, earned a Master’s degree in Social Work, and completed his Doctoral studies at Walden University with honors.
(919) 899-2856 View (919) 899-2856
Photo of Johanna E Bridges, MSc, LPC/NJ, LCMHC, NC
Johanna E Bridges
15618, MSc, LPC/NJ, LCMHC, NC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27407  (Online Only)
My specialty areas include COVID Transitions, Individual and Couples Counseling (premarital and marital), Women's Issues across the life span, General Life Transitions (retirement, going to college, death of a spouse, individuals ages 21 to 100), Sexuality, Gender Identity, and Sexual Dysfunction.
Welcome All Counties and Cities of North Carolina and New Jersey! Allow me to help you move beyond your current struggles. As a Client Centered Counselor, I will meet you where you are and provide a safe place for you to move forward on your healing journey. Together, we will Connect the Bridges of your life to the roads that lead to options and decisions for a brighter future. My goal is to support you as you maneuver the rocky landscape of your life.
My specialty areas include COVID Transitions, Individual and Couples Counseling (premarital and marital), Women's Issues across the life span, General Life Transitions (retirement, going to college, death of a spouse, individuals ages 21 to 100), Sexuality, Gender Identity, and Sexual Dysfunction.
Welcome All Counties and Cities of North Carolina and New Jersey! Allow me to help you move beyond your current struggles. As a Client Centered Counselor, I will meet you where you are and provide a safe place for you to move forward on your healing journey. Together, we will Connect the Bridges of your life to the roads that lead to options and decisions for a brighter future. My goal is to support you as you maneuver the rocky landscape of your life.
(336) 360-5657 View (336) 360-5657
Photo of Randy Garcia Sex And Relationship Therapist (Español), LCMHCA, Counselor
Randy Garcia Sex And Relationship Therapist (Español)
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27401
Your relationship, sex life, and/or mental health yearns for greater involvement from your therapist.
I know, right?!? Managing this thing called Life is hard work! You want an impartial person to help find solutions to lessen the struggle. And, there's been a load of struggle! It's been exhausting. Here's the deal: You don’t have to go it alone. All great superheroes need their sidekick. When the going gets tough, I’m here to join you to fight the good fight. I’ll direct you towards strategies for achieving your goals and moving you towards greater meaning and purpose. Sure, I can be tough and to the point. I expect great things from you. You deserve nothing less from your sidekick for your time, effort, and hard-earned money.
Your relationship, sex life, and/or mental health yearns for greater involvement from your therapist.
I know, right?!? Managing this thing called Life is hard work! You want an impartial person to help find solutions to lessen the struggle. And, there's been a load of struggle! It's been exhausting. Here's the deal: You don’t have to go it alone. All great superheroes need their sidekick. When the going gets tough, I’m here to join you to fight the good fight. I’ll direct you towards strategies for achieving your goals and moving you towards greater meaning and purpose. Sure, I can be tough and to the point. I expect great things from you. You deserve nothing less from your sidekick for your time, effort, and hard-earned money.
(336) 750-6313 View (336) 750-6313
Photo of Kylie Peele, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kylie Peele
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
I enjoy working with adults to help them cope with the anxiety, depression, fear, and excitement life can bring, especially in a sex-positive, kink and poly friendly arena.
It may be difficult to find a therapist who is well versed on being sex positive, kink friendly, non-monogamous allied, and informed on chronic illnesses. These unique relationships require experience from someone who is passionate about them! You may need help with your multiple relationships, your relationship structure, or just someone to talk to who will not wince when your sex life is brought up. You may be struggling with a recent diagnosis of a chronic illness and want to talk with someone about it who understands the gravity a chronic illness diagnosis can bring. I love for clients to educate me on their lived experiences!
I enjoy working with adults to help them cope with the anxiety, depression, fear, and excitement life can bring, especially in a sex-positive, kink and poly friendly arena.
It may be difficult to find a therapist who is well versed on being sex positive, kink friendly, non-monogamous allied, and informed on chronic illnesses. These unique relationships require experience from someone who is passionate about them! You may need help with your multiple relationships, your relationship structure, or just someone to talk to who will not wince when your sex life is brought up. You may be struggling with a recent diagnosis of a chronic illness and want to talk with someone about it who understands the gravity a chronic illness diagnosis can bring. I love for clients to educate me on their lived experiences!
(984) 409-9049 View (984) 409-9049
Photo of Ebonie Lovell-Dancy, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ebonie Lovell-Dancy
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
As a counseling intern specializing in sex therapy, I provide a non-judgmental space for individuals and couples to reconnect emotionally and sexually.
My ideal client may be struggling with emotional disconnection in their relationship, issues around intimacy or sexual satisfaction, or navigating the complexities of infidelity recovery. They might also be dealing with stress, anxiety, or depression, which impacts their ability to engage in meaningful connections. Their goal is to find a balance between emotional fulfillment, intimacy, and well-being, seeking a space where they can explore these concerns and feel empowered to grow.
As a counseling intern specializing in sex therapy, I provide a non-judgmental space for individuals and couples to reconnect emotionally and sexually.
My ideal client may be struggling with emotional disconnection in their relationship, issues around intimacy or sexual satisfaction, or navigating the complexities of infidelity recovery. They might also be dealing with stress, anxiety, or depression, which impacts their ability to engage in meaningful connections. Their goal is to find a balance between emotional fulfillment, intimacy, and well-being, seeking a space where they can explore these concerns and feel empowered to grow.
(984) 384-6892 View (984) 384-6892
Photo of Gabriela Magallanes, LCSWA, LCASA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabriela Magallanes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27617
Gabriela operates from a person-centered approach and a strengths-based perspective to help individuals become the best versions of themselves. Every individual is unique. Every individual has strengths. Together through this lens, Gabriela works with her clients to explore the impact of anxiety disorders, substance use, gender and sexuality identity exploration, and trauma. Her goal is to provide a genuine and grounding space for individuals, couples, and families. Gabriela is LGBTQ+ affirming and has a passion for working with non-dominant populations.
Gabriela operates from a person-centered approach and a strengths-based perspective to help individuals become the best versions of themselves. Every individual is unique. Every individual has strengths. Together through this lens, Gabriela works with her clients to explore the impact of anxiety disorders, substance use, gender and sexuality identity exploration, and trauma. Her goal is to provide a genuine and grounding space for individuals, couples, and families. Gabriela is LGBTQ+ affirming and has a passion for working with non-dominant populations.
(919) 899-2960 View (919) 899-2960
Photo of Ar Ditesheim, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ar Ditesheim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27603
Whether this is your first time in therapy or a continuation of your journey, I believe that we all have something to gain when engaging in the therapy space. I have experience working with an array of clients, each bringing their own perspectives and mental health concerns into our sessions. Having worked with individuals with various backgrounds and identities, my passion lies in working with those exploring the intricacies of gender and sexuality. In addition to identity exploration, I enjoy supporting clients with navigating concerns around anxiety, intimacy, ADHD, relationships, depression, family dynamics, and trauma.
Whether this is your first time in therapy or a continuation of your journey, I believe that we all have something to gain when engaging in the therapy space. I have experience working with an array of clients, each bringing their own perspectives and mental health concerns into our sessions. Having worked with individuals with various backgrounds and identities, my passion lies in working with those exploring the intricacies of gender and sexuality. In addition to identity exploration, I enjoy supporting clients with navigating concerns around anxiety, intimacy, ADHD, relationships, depression, family dynamics, and trauma.
(984) 207-3813 View (984) 207-3813
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.