Sex & Relationship Therapy - Brief and Solution-Focused
For many years I have provided long term and “open ended” therapy for my clients. During the pandemic, the demand for therapy increased at an overwhelming rate for many therapists. I found that the demand for therapists who specialize in intimacy and sexuality also increased exponentially. Because of this, I recently shifted what I offer to clients. I am no longer available for long-term therapy and will instead be focusing on seeing people who are emotionally ready to start making changes in their life regarding intimacy and sex.
My new brief model for therapy is based on the following 4 phases of treatment:
o Assess and gather relevant history (1-3 sessions)
o Provide general understanding of issue (1-3 sessions)
o Create and implement action items (1-3 sessions)
o Follow-up sessions for maintenance (1-3 sessions)
My areas of clinical focus include:
• Anxiety or emotional discomfort with sex
• Concerns related to desire and arousal
• Pain during sex
• Erectile issues/ premature ejaculation
• Dealing with sexual side effects of medication, illness, or emotional stress
• Identity and orientation issues
• Concerns related to sex and life transitions (marriage, pregnancy, children, menopause, illness)
• Concern about “compulsive” or “addictive” behaviors including issues related to pornography use
• Recovery from experiences of non-consensual sex and sexual assault
• Processing experiences of childhood or past sexual abuse
• Issues related to the intersectionality of sexuality, gender, race, ethnicity, and ability
This brief, solution-focused style of therapy is not for everyone. If any of the following are part of what you are looking for in therapy, I am not a good fit for you:
• Someone to be part of your long-term support team
• Support for suicidal thoughts or recent suicide attempts
• Support related to substance use/abuse that inhibit daily functioning
• Support for untreated and/or severe psychological diagnoses (i.e. mood disorders, PTSD, schizophrenia)
• Support for active engagement in non-consensual behavior
A few important things to know about sex and relationship therapy include:
While some things we discuss may be uncomfortable, you will never be forced to disclose something unwillingly. Boundaries and direct communication are highly prioritized and in each therapy session, the client is ultimately the guide of how the session goes.
I will do my best to check in with you and ask questions in order to clarify language. Know that it is okay if you are uncertain how to describe certain experiences and emotions - we will work together and go slowly if needed so that you feel understood.
Sex therapy is meant to be a safe, private setting where sensitive and personal topics can be discussed. Although we may be discussing sexually explicit experiences and feelings, sex therapy does not involve any type of sexual exchange, nudity, or client/therapist touching.
If you are interested in therapy with me, but are feeling uncertain if it is the right choice for you or if you have any questions or concerns before making an appointment to meet with me, do not hesitate to email.
Individuals and couples of all sexualities, gender identities and expressions, and relationship styles are welcome!