Sex Therapists in Hood River, OR
Jonathan Chiaravalle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hood River, OR 97031 (Online Only)
My work and professional interests have been in the treatment of relationship issues, depression, sexuality issues and the concerns of families and groups.
Working in the field of human services since 1988, I bring an understanding and experience around the issues of relationships, sexuality, depression, anxiety, teen life issues and transitions. I work with these issues because our culture does not address them in helpful ways. I help and encourage you to develop tools and skills for success in your life.
Using tools from a mindful, humanistic & cognitive/behavioral orientation, we work together to help you focus on your situation and what will work to create change/healing in your life. I work with individuals and couples.
My work and professional interests have been in the treatment of relationship issues, depression, sexuality issues and the concerns of families and groups.
Working in the field of human services since 1988, I bring an understanding and experience around the issues of relationships, sexuality, depression, anxiety, teen life issues and transitions. I work with these issues because our culture does not address them in helpful ways. I help and encourage you to develop tools and skills for success in your life.
Using tools from a mindful, humanistic & cognitive/behavioral orientation, we work together to help you focus on your situation and what will work to create change/healing in your life. I work with individuals and couples.
Bettina G Jensen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Hood River, OR 97031
If you are struggling with relationships in your life, maybe with your intimate partner/spouse or family members, or perhaps at work, you might feel the need to talk with someone. I am a psychotherapist practicing in Oregon and Washington, and in Europe. I enjoy assisting people in the exploration of new ways to manage challenges that invariably arise in life. If you struggle with anxiety or depression, or if you are experiencing activation related to past traumatic events I can help you learn new ways of relating to yourself and to others.
If you are struggling with relationships in your life, maybe with your intimate partner/spouse or family members, or perhaps at work, you might feel the need to talk with someone. I am a psychotherapist practicing in Oregon and Washington, and in Europe. I enjoy assisting people in the exploration of new ways to manage challenges that invariably arise in life. If you struggle with anxiety or depression, or if you are experiencing activation related to past traumatic events I can help you learn new ways of relating to yourself and to others.
Online Therapists
Griffin Smith
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97217 (Online Only)
I often work with couples (intercultural/bicultural, interracial, queer and BIPOC), men, and queer folks. You might be someone who is seeking support with navigating relational difficulties, racial identity development, societal expectations and narratives, deepening emotions, and challenging patterns that aren’t serving you. You might be someone who needs both comfort and challenge. You might be someone who struggles with sexual intimacy, shame around sex, or some other sexual concern that’s causing personal and or relational distress.
I often work with couples (intercultural/bicultural, interracial, queer and BIPOC), men, and queer folks. You might be someone who is seeking support with navigating relational difficulties, racial identity development, societal expectations and narratives, deepening emotions, and challenging patterns that aren’t serving you. You might be someone who needs both comfort and challenge. You might be someone who struggles with sexual intimacy, shame around sex, or some other sexual concern that’s causing personal and or relational distress.
Kate McNulty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214 (Online Only)
Certified in Negotiation & Mediation, Certified in Scientifically-Based Couples Therapy through the Gottman Institute in Seattle, also AASECT certified as a Sex Therapist.
Online therapy in OR, WA, ME, NY & FL. I use a down-to-earth approach and provide active, engaged therapy with plenty of feedback. The best help I provide is often through raising thoughtful questions. Clients appreciate the handouts and other suggestions for resources we use. I especially enjoy helping people with relationship improvement and making relationship decisions. I use a systematic approach to these concerns and you can expect results. I'm sorry to say it can be difficult to arrange free phone consultations, but please email me and I will promptly provide details. My books: Love and Asperger's, Parenting Adult Children.
Certified in Negotiation & Mediation, Certified in Scientifically-Based Couples Therapy through the Gottman Institute in Seattle, also AASECT certified as a Sex Therapist.
Online therapy in OR, WA, ME, NY & FL. I use a down-to-earth approach and provide active, engaged therapy with plenty of feedback. The best help I provide is often through raising thoughtful questions. Clients appreciate the handouts and other suggestions for resources we use. I especially enjoy helping people with relationship improvement and making relationship decisions. I use a systematic approach to these concerns and you can expect results. I'm sorry to say it can be difficult to arrange free phone consultations, but please email me and I will promptly provide details. My books: Love and Asperger's, Parenting Adult Children.
Margaret McNeal
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
I specialize in: embodiment, sexuality, intimacy, relationships, self-esteem, anxiety, high sensitivity, soul-making, creativity, women’s issues, and life transitions.
I help people discover a sense of embodiment, self, and aliveness. My clients are intelligent, curious, creative, and sensitive people who seek to deepen their relationships with their bodies, themselves, others, and that which is greater. As a depth-oriented therapist, we will look beneath the surface to understand the deeper currents that move you. We will examine patterns that are holding you, explore the wisdom of your body, practice mindfulness, relate with your unconscious, refer to archetypal imagery, and incorporate strategies to enhance your self-concept, competency, and well-being.
I specialize in: embodiment, sexuality, intimacy, relationships, self-esteem, anxiety, high sensitivity, soul-making, creativity, women’s issues, and life transitions.
I help people discover a sense of embodiment, self, and aliveness. My clients are intelligent, curious, creative, and sensitive people who seek to deepen their relationships with their bodies, themselves, others, and that which is greater. As a depth-oriented therapist, we will look beneath the surface to understand the deeper currents that move you. We will examine patterns that are holding you, explore the wisdom of your body, practice mindfulness, relate with your unconscious, refer to archetypal imagery, and incorporate strategies to enhance your self-concept, competency, and well-being.
Ally Simone
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, T2066
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219 (Online Only)
I work with adult individuals and relationships. Many of my clients are focused on healing from trauma, disrupting harmful patterns like people pleasing and codependency, and creating healthy relationships. I am committed to equity and inclusion, both personally and professionally and my goal is always that my clients feel seen and supported in all aspects of their identity. I am LGBTQIA+, and gender affirming, sex/kink positive and welcome all relationship configurations including CNM/Polyamory. I recognize and value all types of diversity including ethnicity, race, size, gender, sexual orientation, class, religion, and abilities.
I work with adult individuals and relationships. Many of my clients are focused on healing from trauma, disrupting harmful patterns like people pleasing and codependency, and creating healthy relationships. I am committed to equity and inclusion, both personally and professionally and my goal is always that my clients feel seen and supported in all aspects of their identity. I am LGBTQIA+, and gender affirming, sex/kink positive and welcome all relationship configurations including CNM/Polyamory. I recognize and value all types of diversity including ethnicity, race, size, gender, sexual orientation, class, religion, and abilities.
Madeline Ball
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFTA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97224
I specialize in sex therapy and helping people figure out where sex fits into their lives.
Are you an individual or couple looking for more fulfillment? I specialize in working with relationships to create change. Monogamous, poly, or open my desire is to work towards your common goals to create lasting change. I love working with couples developing healthy sexualities, LGBTQIA+ individuals developing their sexual and gender expression, and people on the journey of healing. I use a person-centered approach, with a whole lot of fun and humor, to authentically provide a space for a collaborative, non-judgmental relationship. Creating mindful awareness into your lived experience we gently address patterns and build insight.
I specialize in sex therapy and helping people figure out where sex fits into their lives.
Are you an individual or couple looking for more fulfillment? I specialize in working with relationships to create change. Monogamous, poly, or open my desire is to work towards your common goals to create lasting change. I love working with couples developing healthy sexualities, LGBTQIA+ individuals developing their sexual and gender expression, and people on the journey of healing. I use a person-centered approach, with a whole lot of fun and humor, to authentically provide a space for a collaborative, non-judgmental relationship. Creating mindful awareness into your lived experience we gently address patterns and build insight.
I want to create a space where we can discuss your relationship from a nonjudgmental, sex, kink, and BDSM positive, gender and neurodivergent affirming, and antiracist lens.
I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where we will work together to navigate the relational and systemic struggles that you may be facing. I am passionate about working with neurodivergent, especially autistic and ADHD individuals, in a way that is affirming to your identities. I aim to be understanding of your neurotype and to work with your needs.
I want to create a space where we can discuss your relationship from a nonjudgmental, sex, kink, and BDSM positive, gender and neurodivergent affirming, and antiracist lens.
I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where we will work together to navigate the relational and systemic struggles that you may be facing. I am passionate about working with neurodivergent, especially autistic and ADHD individuals, in a way that is affirming to your identities. I aim to be understanding of your neurotype and to work with your needs.
Jennifer M Besst
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
I have advanced education & training in couples/relationship work, art therapy, and sex therapy.
I offer both traditional general therapy and sex therapy, with a current focus in my practice on treating sexual pain disorders (such as dyspareunia and vaginismus), anxiety about sex, coping with low desire in self or partnership, building sexual & relationship security and confidence, and coping with stress brought on by relationship difficulties including: finding a dating partner, moving in together, managing conflict, balancing household responsibilities fairly, break-ups/divorce, and exploring an open-relationship. Please navigate to my website if you'd like to learn more about my therapeutic style and background.
I have advanced education & training in couples/relationship work, art therapy, and sex therapy.
I offer both traditional general therapy and sex therapy, with a current focus in my practice on treating sexual pain disorders (such as dyspareunia and vaginismus), anxiety about sex, coping with low desire in self or partnership, building sexual & relationship security and confidence, and coping with stress brought on by relationship difficulties including: finding a dating partner, moving in together, managing conflict, balancing household responsibilities fairly, break-ups/divorce, and exploring an open-relationship. Please navigate to my website if you'd like to learn more about my therapeutic style and background.
Ashley Terry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC, LMHC, CADC
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Specialty areas include eating disorders, body image distress, anxiety disorders (social anxiety, generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, illness anxiety disorder), PTSD/C-PTSD, substance abuse, sex, and gambling use disorders, relational and marital issues, divorce/separation, life transitions, as well as grief and loss.
Hello I am Ashley it is nice to meet you. I am currently taking new clients in OR and WA. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor in the State of Oregon, as well as a License Mental Health Counselor in the State of Washington. I have provided treatment to individuals suffering from eating disorders, substance use disorders, severe and persistent mental illness, marital and relational issues, grief and loss, as well as all forms of anxiety disorders, mood disorders and a vast range of substance, sex and gambling disorders.
Specialty areas include eating disorders, body image distress, anxiety disorders (social anxiety, generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, illness anxiety disorder), PTSD/C-PTSD, substance abuse, sex, and gambling use disorders, relational and marital issues, divorce/separation, life transitions, as well as grief and loss.
Hello I am Ashley it is nice to meet you. I am currently taking new clients in OR and WA. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor in the State of Oregon, as well as a License Mental Health Counselor in the State of Washington. I have provided treatment to individuals suffering from eating disorders, substance use disorders, severe and persistent mental illness, marital and relational issues, grief and loss, as well as all forms of anxiety disorders, mood disorders and a vast range of substance, sex and gambling disorders.
Natasha Kutzke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gresham, OR 97030 (Online Only)
My trauma-informed approach is sex/ sexwork-positive, body-neutral, anti-racist, and affirming of all polyamorous and LGBTQIA+ folks.
Are you feeling stuck in patterns of shame, struggling with self-worth, or navigating challenges in your intimate relationships? I specialize in helping individuals heal from trauma, address feelings of inadequacy, and reclaim their sense of self. Whether you're dealing with past wounds, feeling disconnected from yourself or your partner, or struggling with issues related to sex and intimacy, we can work together to break through those barriers and cultivate deeper connection, self-compassion, and emotional resilience.
My trauma-informed approach is sex/ sexwork-positive, body-neutral, anti-racist, and affirming of all polyamorous and LGBTQIA+ folks.
Are you feeling stuck in patterns of shame, struggling with self-worth, or navigating challenges in your intimate relationships? I specialize in helping individuals heal from trauma, address feelings of inadequacy, and reclaim their sense of self. Whether you're dealing with past wounds, feeling disconnected from yourself or your partner, or struggling with issues related to sex and intimacy, we can work together to break through those barriers and cultivate deeper connection, self-compassion, and emotional resilience.
Gracie James Dilley-Bucciarelli
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Waitlist for new clients
These may include narrative therapy practices, attachment, neuroscience & mindfulness approaches, sex therapy, internal family systems and somatic practices.
I work with people through a strengths-based, trauma-informed & relational lens. In therapy we create a space to explore communication patterns, challenge outdated beliefs and cultivate resources that support your life and relationships.
These may include narrative therapy practices, attachment, neuroscience & mindfulness approaches, sex therapy, internal family systems and somatic practices.
I work with people through a strengths-based, trauma-informed & relational lens. In therapy we create a space to explore communication patterns, challenge outdated beliefs and cultivate resources that support your life and relationships.
I work in private sessions helping those who are needing to address growing concerns related to anxiety, depression, sexuality, and addiction.
In today's fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, stressed, or uncertain. Anxiety can weigh you down, turning everyday tasks into mountains. Depression may leave you feeling disconnected, draining your energy and joy. Addiction, too, can take hold, impacting every part of your life and making it hard to feel in control. On top of this, trauma, sexuality, and sexual health issues can add layers of complexity to your emotional well-being, leaving you feeling isolated or confused. I have worked extensively with teens, adults and executives and others in high pressure jobs on these issues.
I work in private sessions helping those who are needing to address growing concerns related to anxiety, depression, sexuality, and addiction.
In today's fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, stressed, or uncertain. Anxiety can weigh you down, turning everyday tasks into mountains. Depression may leave you feeling disconnected, draining your energy and joy. Addiction, too, can take hold, impacting every part of your life and making it hard to feel in control. On top of this, trauma, sexuality, and sexual health issues can add layers of complexity to your emotional well-being, leaving you feeling isolated or confused. I have worked extensively with teens, adults and executives and others in high pressure jobs on these issues.
Natalie (Nat) Day
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
She is currently enrolled in a certification program through the Center for Positive Sexuality.
Natalie (Nat) Day, LCSW graduated from Boise State University with a Masters in Social Work in 2018. Over the last decade she's worked in residential treatment, on-campus college counseling, substance abuse treatment, inpatient psychiatric care, and community mental health. Specializing in the treatment of trauma, addictions, couples counseling, and sexuality (kink/BDSM/ sex work), her approach to therapy is eclectic, drawing on a variety of evidenced based practices. Nat serves the othered/isolated; supports self acceptance, connection, and community; and believes in individuals' innate power and resilience.
She is currently enrolled in a certification program through the Center for Positive Sexuality.
Natalie (Nat) Day, LCSW graduated from Boise State University with a Masters in Social Work in 2018. Over the last decade she's worked in residential treatment, on-campus college counseling, substance abuse treatment, inpatient psychiatric care, and community mental health. Specializing in the treatment of trauma, addictions, couples counseling, and sexuality (kink/BDSM/ sex work), her approach to therapy is eclectic, drawing on a variety of evidenced based practices. Nat serves the othered/isolated; supports self acceptance, connection, and community; and believes in individuals' innate power and resilience.
Hazel Hamann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97211 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
No topic is too much– gender, sex, sexuality, intimacy, relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma, and more.
UPDATE 8/24: I'M on LEAVE through OCTOBER 2024. Are you queer and/or trans? Do you feel lost and disconnected from your daily life? Exhausted by life's endless responsibilities? Unhappy and dissatisfied with the relationships in your life? I believe in your capacity to lead a meaningful and fulfilling life. I'm here to support your path there. I'm a queer, transgender, & Latinx therapist who has worked with my communities and beyond for 10+ years. I specialize in working with concerns related to relationships, life transitions, intimacy, gender, and sexuality. Let’s work together toward greater balance, growth, and freedom.
No topic is too much– gender, sex, sexuality, intimacy, relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma, and more.
UPDATE 8/24: I'M on LEAVE through OCTOBER 2024. Are you queer and/or trans? Do you feel lost and disconnected from your daily life? Exhausted by life's endless responsibilities? Unhappy and dissatisfied with the relationships in your life? I believe in your capacity to lead a meaningful and fulfilling life. I'm here to support your path there. I'm a queer, transgender, & Latinx therapist who has worked with my communities and beyond for 10+ years. I specialize in working with concerns related to relationships, life transitions, intimacy, gender, and sexuality. Let’s work together toward greater balance, growth, and freedom.
Heather Shannon | Certified Sex Therapist
Counselor, LCPC, CST
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229 (Online Only)
Most people wait too long to address their sex lives and unfortunately things just tend to get worse when they're ignored .
Are you feeling stuck when it comes to sex? Maybe you're starting to get sexually frustrated or you feel guilty for not meeting your partner's needs. Or sex has simply become a chore. You might be feeling more like friends, co-parents or roommates instead of lovers. And sex is admittedly a sensitive area that can bring up insecurities or ego . . . or just straight up confusion. But there IS a way to get back to feeling passionate and excited again. Let's find your sexy spark! I specialize in helping committed couples get their sexy spark back using my Pathway to Passion model (see photo gallery).
Most people wait too long to address their sex lives and unfortunately things just tend to get worse when they're ignored .
Are you feeling stuck when it comes to sex? Maybe you're starting to get sexually frustrated or you feel guilty for not meeting your partner's needs. Or sex has simply become a chore. You might be feeling more like friends, co-parents or roommates instead of lovers. And sex is admittedly a sensitive area that can bring up insecurities or ego . . . or just straight up confusion. But there IS a way to get back to feeling passionate and excited again. Let's find your sexy spark! I specialize in helping committed couples get their sexy spark back using my Pathway to Passion model (see photo gallery).
I also offer sexual health coaching nationally and internationally.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Certified Sex Therapist, and hold a PhD in Somatic Psychology (body psychology). This unique combination of credentials facilitates a focus on clients' cognitive process as well as mind-body health. I work with a diverse client base including women, men, couples and gender-diverse individuals on relationship and sexuality issues. My treatment specialties include: recovery of sexual health after sexual trauma, sexless marriages/relationships, compulsive sexuality (often called "addiction") and non-traditional sexual expression including fetishes and redefining monogamy.
I also offer sexual health coaching nationally and internationally.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Certified Sex Therapist, and hold a PhD in Somatic Psychology (body psychology). This unique combination of credentials facilitates a focus on clients' cognitive process as well as mind-body health. I work with a diverse client base including women, men, couples and gender-diverse individuals on relationship and sexuality issues. My treatment specialties include: recovery of sexual health after sexual trauma, sexless marriages/relationships, compulsive sexuality (often called "addiction") and non-traditional sexual expression including fetishes and redefining monogamy.
Demir Crone
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209 (Online Only)
I work with a variety of issues- trauma, attachment issues, sexual challenges, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life transitions, LGBTQ+, and more. With individuals, I draw primarily on AEDP and ISTDP- two compassionate, deep, and relational psychodynamic approaches designed to create lasting change. I am actively receiving training in both, along with consultations in order to provide high quality therapy to all my clients. I work with couples and have done training in Emotional Focused Therapy for Couples and sex therapy (ATSIP Level 1). I am currently doing trainings in ISTDP for Couples and in the Developmental Model.
I work with a variety of issues- trauma, attachment issues, sexual challenges, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life transitions, LGBTQ+, and more. With individuals, I draw primarily on AEDP and ISTDP- two compassionate, deep, and relational psychodynamic approaches designed to create lasting change. I am actively receiving training in both, along with consultations in order to provide high quality therapy to all my clients. I work with couples and have done training in Emotional Focused Therapy for Couples and sex therapy (ATSIP Level 1). I am currently doing trainings in ISTDP for Couples and in the Developmental Model.
Jane Meskill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97206 (Online Only)
I had a traditional psychoanalytic training on the east coast and have had over 35 years of continued learning and interest in sexuality, dream work, couple's therapy, making conscious what is unconscious and the work of Carl Jung.
Why not feel better, understand more, find avenues of communication in your relationships, improve your sex life, get rid of your depression and anxiety? Real change often takes courage, time and trust but it's not as hard as you think. My clients find I understand them quickly and we seek insight and solutions together. Clients want to be unstuck, to be more conscious, to be more content and to be more mindful. Clarity, problem solving, finding one's authentic path, having more intimacy and being happy are some of the results of therapy. SEE A VIDIO OF JANE. www.youtube.com/watch?v=ojWA9NFKoNk
I had a traditional psychoanalytic training on the east coast and have had over 35 years of continued learning and interest in sexuality, dream work, couple's therapy, making conscious what is unconscious and the work of Carl Jung.
Why not feel better, understand more, find avenues of communication in your relationships, improve your sex life, get rid of your depression and anxiety? Real change often takes courage, time and trust but it's not as hard as you think. My clients find I understand them quickly and we seek insight and solutions together. Clients want to be unstuck, to be more conscious, to be more content and to be more mindful. Clarity, problem solving, finding one's authentic path, having more intimacy and being happy are some of the results of therapy. SEE A VIDIO OF JANE. www.youtube.com/watch?v=ojWA9NFKoNk
Lori M. Severson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97005
I have also trained with Martha Kauppi, a nationally recognized therapist and educator on treating and assessing client issues around sex, sexual health, and other relational intimacy challenges.
I am passionate about helping clients find the help they need. My work is for individuals and couples from all backgrounds, whether they are in traditional or non-traditional partnerships. While I provide therapy for a wide variety of issues, my focus is on relationships, life transitions and women's issues. I want to help individuals and couples find new ways to see, experience and respond to those parts of themselves or their partner that may be challenging. My goal is that you will find my therapeutic style to be very caring, collaborative, supportive, individual and unique to your personal and cultural needs.
I have also trained with Martha Kauppi, a nationally recognized therapist and educator on treating and assessing client issues around sex, sexual health, and other relational intimacy challenges.
I am passionate about helping clients find the help they need. My work is for individuals and couples from all backgrounds, whether they are in traditional or non-traditional partnerships. While I provide therapy for a wide variety of issues, my focus is on relationships, life transitions and women's issues. I want to help individuals and couples find new ways to see, experience and respond to those parts of themselves or their partner that may be challenging. My goal is that you will find my therapeutic style to be very caring, collaborative, supportive, individual and unique to your personal and cultural needs.
See more therapy options for Hood River
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.