When people hear “sex therapy,” they often imagine something awkward, taboo, or only for couples in crisis. But in reality, sex therapy is a specialized form of talk therapy that addresses a wide range of concerns related to sexual health, intimacy, identity, and relationships. It’s not about performance—it’s about connection, confidence, and healing.
What Is Sex Therapy?
Sex therapy is a type of psychotherapy focused on helping individuals and couples explore and resolve issues related to sex, intimacy, and relationships. This may include:
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Difficulty with desire, arousal, or orgasm
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Pain during sex or medical conditions affecting sexual function
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Mismatched libidos in a relationship
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Recovery from sexual trauma
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Navigating sexual orientation or gender identity
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Managing shame, guilt, or anxiety around sex
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Rebuilding connection and trust after infidelity or relationship strain
Sessions are private, respectful, and rooted in consent and comfort. Therapists don’t engage in any physical contact—instead, they use talk therapy, education, mindfulness, and communication strategies to help clients reach their goals.
Who Is Sex Therapy For?
Sex therapy is for anyone—individuals, couples, people of all gender identities and sexual orientations—who want to better understand their sexuality, strengthen their relationships, or resolve sexual concerns.
You do not need to be in crisis or in a partnership to benefit from sex therapy. People seek it out for many reasons:
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A single person exploring their identity or working through past shame
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A couple wanting to improve emotional or physical intimacy
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Someone dealing with sexual side effects from medication or illness
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Survivors of trauma looking to reconnect with their body and sense of safety
Sexuality is a natural and important part of who we are—and like any part of our emotional or relational life, it sometimes needs support, healing, or exploration.
What to Expect
Sex therapy sessions are like any other type of therapy—based on open conversation, trust, and collaboration. Your therapist will work with you to understand your goals, offer psychoeducation, and help you build skills in communication, boundaries, and emotional connection.
Depending on your needs, therapy might also include:
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Exercises for self-awareness or communication
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Referrals for medical consultation if physical issues are present
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Exploration of cultural, spiritual, or relational beliefs around sex
All sessions are judgment-free and adapted to your values, comfort level, and pace.
The Takeaway
Sex therapy isn’t about fixing someone—it’s about creating space for healing, curiosity, and growth. Whether you’re experiencing a specific issue or just want to understand yourself better, a sex therapist can be a supportive guide.
If you’re curious, overwhelmed, or just wondering if it’s for you—it probably is. And that’s okay. You deserve to feel safe, connected, and empowered in your relationship with your body and others.
Meet Our Sex Therapy Specialists!
Jeannie Ford, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Michele Young, Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional are both experienced clinicians specializing in sex therapy. They are currently accepting new clients and ready to support you on your journey toward healing, connection, and growth.
