Sex Therapy
Why Sex Therapy?
Because sexuality is an essential part of who we are as human beings. It’s not just about the act of sex or who we desire to engage in these acts with, but really a much broader part of our sense of self from which we decide who we truly are and how we want to express that within the world around us. It is the part of our selves from which much of our life force comes from and from which we gain a deeper understanding of passion, love, and connection. I think of our life force as being the fuel that drives us towards living, being, growing, and expanding. In Existential therapy, some consider sexuality to be the opposite of death. Sure, sexuality represents life in that its most primal role is for purposes of conception and birth, but it also represents living, growing, thriving, and expanding. Death on the other hand is more about slowing down, closing up, withdrawing inward, and letting go. This comparison highlights the role that sexuality really has in our lives and why it is so important to understand our relationship to it.
Unfortunately, sex and sexuality are often associated with a lot of shame, guilt, and trauma. Our relationship with sex can be difficult to navigate and it can feel confusing to untangle all the ideas and judgments we picked up about it over the course of our lives. One way to better understand this is to think about your sexual scripts and what beliefs you are currently holding about it. We establish these scripts throughout our lives and, in large part, from society. These scripts are influenced from the messages we receive from external sources about how we are “supposed” to be and what we ultimately consider to be “right” and “wrong.”
With sex and sexuality being such a vital aspect of who we are, you can only imagine the effect it can have when one struggles with it. Addressing trauma and/or any other issues that get in the way of this aspect of life, can be essential to feeling a greater sense of wholeness and being able to have a life worth living. I can help you explore your relationship with sex and address issues that cause confusion, guilt, shame, and even fear.
I am a sex-positive and gender, sexuality, and relationship diverse knowledgeable therapist. I have completed the University of Michigan’s Sexual Health Certificate Program, and I am an active member of AASECT (American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselor’s, and Therapists). I provide a safe space where you can explore your sexuality and support you in better understanding your sexual scripts and how to have a more positive and enjoyable relationship with yourself and others. Through this process you can learn to let go of internalized phobias and embrace your authentic self and thrive in your own uniqueness.
Ethical Non-Monogamy / Polyamory:
It can be difficult to breach the subject of wanting to explore non-monogamy, especially if you are already in a relationship. I take an open-minded approach and promote being creative in your relationship design, whatever works for you and your partner. I can help you understand ways to introduce this into your relationship and offers lots of resources that can support you in your exploration. You may be looking for therapy for help in beginning this process or you may already be in this style of relationship and just looking for someone who is knowledgeable about your lifestyle. I offer an accepting and safe space to be yourself and explore whatever brought you to therapy.
Kink
I am a kink-informed and sex-positive therapist. Kink can be considered very taboo or foreign to many people, but the reality is that many people have a kinky side and feel the draw to explore through intimacy what might be risky or edgy. Because of the unique ways that kink allows one to explore their limits and the limits of others, it can be very personal and deeply meaningful. Types of kinks can include BDSM, D/s power dynamics, exhibitionism, voyeurism, humiliation, fetishes, etc. Whether you are looking to explore your kink or just looking for a therapist who knows what you’re talking about, I can help support you in addressing your therapy goals, whatever stage or place you might be in.
Express Yourself and Live Authentically
Sex Worker Allied
I am sex worker allied. I work with sex workers and am contracted with Pineapple Support (which is an organization that helps fund therapy for sex workers).
