Sex Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Jason Powell, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jason Powell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) as well as a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) through AASECT. My work focuses on marriage and couples therapy, specifically centered on infidelity repair, communication issues, couples in crisis, relationships on the brink, and those experiencing a range of frustrations and challenges with physical intimacy. I have been featured in Forbes, the Knot, and other leading media outlets offering my insight into relationships and communication. I would love to meet with you about your unique circumstances and how I might be able to help.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) as well as a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) through AASECT. My work focuses on marriage and couples therapy, specifically centered on infidelity repair, communication issues, couples in crisis, relationships on the brink, and those experiencing a range of frustrations and challenges with physical intimacy. I have been featured in Forbes, the Knot, and other leading media outlets offering my insight into relationships and communication. I would love to meet with you about your unique circumstances and how I might be able to help.
(202) 873-9614 View (202) 873-9614
Photo of Carl Mojta - Carl Mojta, LMFT, LLC, CAC-I, CST-S, IFS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carl Mojta, LMFT, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, CAC-I, CST-S, IFS
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Some of my key areas of expertise and clinical/research interests are: sexuality/sexual health concerns, problematic sexual behavior, substance abuse addiction and recovery, relationship/couples issues, individuals and couples who identify as LGBTQIA+, masculinity and men's mental health, military/veterans mental health and multiculturalism.
Welcome! I am very glad you are here! I offer a person-centered, compassionate, and systemic approach to therapy. I consider working with each client to be a privilege and a collaborative therapeutic experience. If you’re looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals and hopes. Internal Family Systems (IFS), an evidence-based model, guides my approach to helping individuals and couples heal by unburdening their protective and wounded parts in a loving and compassionate manner.
Some of my key areas of expertise and clinical/research interests are: sexuality/sexual health concerns, problematic sexual behavior, substance abuse addiction and recovery, relationship/couples issues, individuals and couples who identify as LGBTQIA+, masculinity and men's mental health, military/veterans mental health and multiculturalism.
Welcome! I am very glad you are here! I offer a person-centered, compassionate, and systemic approach to therapy. I consider working with each client to be a privilege and a collaborative therapeutic experience. If you’re looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals and hopes. Internal Family Systems (IFS), an evidence-based model, guides my approach to helping individuals and couples heal by unburdening their protective and wounded parts in a loving and compassionate manner.
(202) 803-8623 View (202) 803-8623
Photo of Courtney Fraser, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Courtney Fraser
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I specialize in sex therapy, anxiety disorders, and trauma, but have extensive experience working with depression, ADHD, bipolar related disorders, personality disorders, and general life transitions.
I have worked for over a decade with clients across the lifespan. Currently I work with adults and couples. My main goal is to first and foremost get an understanding of what someone is struggling with so I can determine how I can best assist them in their therapy process. I pride myself on my ability to meet people where they are at, build a supportive relationship, and help them work towards achieving their goals. I am currently working towards AASECT certification and obtaining my PhD in Clinical Sexology, so I have a particular interest working with couples and individuals in the areas of sex therapy.
I specialize in sex therapy, anxiety disorders, and trauma, but have extensive experience working with depression, ADHD, bipolar related disorders, personality disorders, and general life transitions.
I have worked for over a decade with clients across the lifespan. Currently I work with adults and couples. My main goal is to first and foremost get an understanding of what someone is struggling with so I can determine how I can best assist them in their therapy process. I pride myself on my ability to meet people where they are at, build a supportive relationship, and help them work towards achieving their goals. I am currently working towards AASECT certification and obtaining my PhD in Clinical Sexology, so I have a particular interest working with couples and individuals in the areas of sex therapy.
(202) 930-8277 View (202) 930-8277
Photo of Grace A Whitman, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Grace A Whitman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
Not accepting new clients
I can be most helpful to you if you are interested in growing yourself and your own potential for intimacy and sexuality. Instead of identifying what's "wrong" with you, I focus on your strengths. By balancing your desire for autonomy and your desire for connection, you can increase your capacity for desire and eroticism in intimate sexuality. As an active therapist, I'm willing to challenge you and your partner to develop and grow yourself up.
I can be most helpful to you if you are interested in growing yourself and your own potential for intimacy and sexuality. Instead of identifying what's "wrong" with you, I focus on your strengths. By balancing your desire for autonomy and your desire for connection, you can increase your capacity for desire and eroticism in intimate sexuality. As an active therapist, I'm willing to challenge you and your partner to develop and grow yourself up.
(202) 517-9245 View (202) 517-9245
Photo of Andrea Battiola - Peak Couples and Sex Therapy, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peak Couples and Sex Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I'm Andrea Battiola, owner and psychotherapist at Peak Couples & Sex Therapy. Sex is an area of life that can both impact and be impacted by everything else in life. Yet we often feel so alone in our sexual lives with very few places and people to turn to for help. We believe that sexual health and relational well-being are at the core of our overall mental health. Our sexual needs, wants, fears and struggles all matter. I want to create the space for others that my younger self deserved to have when she was growing up, trying to understand how sex and relationships impacted her confidence, identity, values, and needs.
I'm Andrea Battiola, owner and psychotherapist at Peak Couples & Sex Therapy. Sex is an area of life that can both impact and be impacted by everything else in life. Yet we often feel so alone in our sexual lives with very few places and people to turn to for help. We believe that sexual health and relational well-being are at the core of our overall mental health. Our sexual needs, wants, fears and struggles all matter. I want to create the space for others that my younger self deserved to have when she was growing up, trying to understand how sex and relationships impacted her confidence, identity, values, and needs.
(202) 949-3779 View (202) 949-3779
Photo of Deborah J Fox, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah J Fox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
I am also a Certified Sex therapist.
'We used to have such fun together; how can we get that back?" is a question many people have who come to see me. We all need help at one point or another in our lives. Seeking help for relationship struggles, sexual problems, anxiety, panic attacks, feeling depressed or 'stuck', is a great step forward towards feeling better. I've been practicing for 30 years, with expertise in helping people enjoy their relationships and lives again. I see people individually, in couples and in groups.
I am also a Certified Sex therapist.
'We used to have such fun together; how can we get that back?" is a question many people have who come to see me. We all need help at one point or another in our lives. Seeking help for relationship struggles, sexual problems, anxiety, panic attacks, feeling depressed or 'stuck', is a great step forward towards feeling better. I've been practicing for 30 years, with expertise in helping people enjoy their relationships and lives again. I see people individually, in couples and in groups.
(202) 656-7984 View (202) 656-7984
Photo of Suzanne Dunn - A Therapeutic Alliance, LICSW, LCSW, LMSW, CST, LGSW
A Therapeutic Alliance
LICSW, LCSW, LMSW, CST, LGSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
Discussion topics include: Behavioral challenges at each developmental stage of growth; Handling transitions; How to talk to your straight or LGBTQ teen; and Talking about sex in an honest and responsible way, beyond abstinence.
Using a client-centered approach, our Clinicians help Clients understand and work through problems of everyday living, including relationship issues, work-life balance and self care issues, the impact of traumatic experiences past and present, and issues which affect day-to-day living. Connecting the dots of your inner experience and your outward struggles can be a powerful motivator for change. Together, we keep close track of your goals for therapy and your satisfaction with the results.
Discussion topics include: Behavioral challenges at each developmental stage of growth; Handling transitions; How to talk to your straight or LGBTQ teen; and Talking about sex in an honest and responsible way, beyond abstinence.
Using a client-centered approach, our Clinicians help Clients understand and work through problems of everyday living, including relationship issues, work-life balance and self care issues, the impact of traumatic experiences past and present, and issues which affect day-to-day living. Connecting the dots of your inner experience and your outward struggles can be a powerful motivator for change. Together, we keep close track of your goals for therapy and your satisfaction with the results.
(571) 882-9743 View (571) 882-9743
Photo of Jamie Steele, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jamie Steele
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Welcome! I primarily work with clients who are struggling with life transitions or relational concerns. This may include leaving a faith tradition, gaining or losing a partner, exploring sexuality, dealing with old "stuff," working through identity 'stuff,' or getting unstuck. I work with clients from traditional to alternative and everything between, regardless of gender, sexuality, ethnicity, race, orientation, spirituality or relational preferences. I am committed to a social justice practice of anti-racist and affirming care. I tend to see many clients who have had negative experiences with therapists in the past.
Welcome! I primarily work with clients who are struggling with life transitions or relational concerns. This may include leaving a faith tradition, gaining or losing a partner, exploring sexuality, dealing with old "stuff," working through identity 'stuff,' or getting unstuck. I work with clients from traditional to alternative and everything between, regardless of gender, sexuality, ethnicity, race, orientation, spirituality or relational preferences. I am committed to a social justice practice of anti-racist and affirming care. I tend to see many clients who have had negative experiences with therapists in the past.
(202) 831-2975 View (202) 831-2975
Photo of Phyllis Kaye, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Phyllis Kaye
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
My specialities include, but are not limited to; couples therapy, sex therapy, relationship,intimacy and stepparenting issues, anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders.
I have been providing individual and couples therapy for 30 years. I have been told that my style is direct, compassionate and non-judgemental.
My specialities include, but are not limited to; couples therapy, sex therapy, relationship,intimacy and stepparenting issues, anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders.
I have been providing individual and couples therapy for 30 years. I have been told that my style is direct, compassionate and non-judgemental.
(202) 656-8970 View (202) 656-8970
Photo of Morgan Summers-Slaughter, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Morgan Summers-Slaughter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
One of my main areas of focus is sex therapy, and I work with individuals and couples to resolve sexual trauma histories and build stronger connections with their partners.
I love to work with clients in the process of working through identity struggles, and dynamics at play that impact a person's ability to be authentic. I'm particularly interested in working with young adults, and those in and around the LGBTQIA+ community. I work to provide an affirming, supportive space for healing and growth for all clients regardless of their age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious background and practices (or lack thereof), or any other factor.
One of my main areas of focus is sex therapy, and I work with individuals and couples to resolve sexual trauma histories and build stronger connections with their partners.
I love to work with clients in the process of working through identity struggles, and dynamics at play that impact a person's ability to be authentic. I'm particularly interested in working with young adults, and those in and around the LGBTQIA+ community. I work to provide an affirming, supportive space for healing and growth for all clients regardless of their age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious background and practices (or lack thereof), or any other factor.
(240) 219-6923 View (240) 219-6923
Photo of Jennifer Keilholtz, LCPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Keilholtz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
At Peak Couples + Sex Therapy, we are focused on creating a working environment and relationship that allows you to thrive and be your most authentic self.
My mission is to create a space of acceptance for individuals and partners to find true, honest connection to themselves and within their intimate relationships. I am passionate about helping clients from all backgrounds work through barriers in order to create the relationships and life they desire. Through targeted conversations, skill building, and at home exercises we will work to help you build on the strengths you already have. I offer acceptance and a straightforward, empathetic approach to psychotherapy with my clients.
At Peak Couples + Sex Therapy, we are focused on creating a working environment and relationship that allows you to thrive and be your most authentic self.
My mission is to create a space of acceptance for individuals and partners to find true, honest connection to themselves and within their intimate relationships. I am passionate about helping clients from all backgrounds work through barriers in order to create the relationships and life they desire. Through targeted conversations, skill building, and at home exercises we will work to help you build on the strengths you already have. I offer acceptance and a straightforward, empathetic approach to psychotherapy with my clients.
(202) 240-2561 View (202) 240-2561
Photo of Nancie E. Henley, LICSW, CSTIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancie E. Henley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CSTIP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
You can become someone who you can learn to love and trust, and I would like to help you with that. My name is Ella Henley and I am a trauma therapist with over 20 years of experience working with survivors. I offer individual talk therapy services to address CPTSD, anxiety, dissociation, emotional regulation, identity, and attachment and developmental trauma. I enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse individuals. I am a member of AASECT, am certified as a Sex Therapy Informed Professional (CSTIP) and am working towards credentialing in sex and couples therapy. I am Anti-Racist, and am Queer, Trans, Kink, and Poly affirming.
You can become someone who you can learn to love and trust, and I would like to help you with that. My name is Ella Henley and I am a trauma therapist with over 20 years of experience working with survivors. I offer individual talk therapy services to address CPTSD, anxiety, dissociation, emotional regulation, identity, and attachment and developmental trauma. I enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse individuals. I am a member of AASECT, am certified as a Sex Therapy Informed Professional (CSTIP) and am working towards credentialing in sex and couples therapy. I am Anti-Racist, and am Queer, Trans, Kink, and Poly affirming.
(202) 519-8471 View (202) 519-8471
Photo of Emma Smith, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP, CTCT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emma Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP, CTCT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Certified in Trauma & Transgender Care & trained in EMDR, CPT, Imago & sex therapy, I offer a cozy, non-judgmental, sex-positive environment for ENM/poly/kinky (& vanilla) alike!.
I help clients shed old narratives and explore new ways of thinking, feeling, and experiencing, even if they already have a lot on their plate. Individuals & couples working with me are "Type A+" meaning they are professionals who have achieved success "in spite" of things that happened to them. Now, they are interested in addressing trauma, seeking symptom relief, engaging in self-discovery, and/or cultivating deeply satisfying romantic/sexual relationships. I specialize in treating sexual & religious trauma & working with LGBTQ+ folks on their journeys of identity discovery (Yes, I like working with cis/straight folks, too).
Certified in Trauma & Transgender Care & trained in EMDR, CPT, Imago & sex therapy, I offer a cozy, non-judgmental, sex-positive environment for ENM/poly/kinky (& vanilla) alike!.
I help clients shed old narratives and explore new ways of thinking, feeling, and experiencing, even if they already have a lot on their plate. Individuals & couples working with me are "Type A+" meaning they are professionals who have achieved success "in spite" of things that happened to them. Now, they are interested in addressing trauma, seeking symptom relief, engaging in self-discovery, and/or cultivating deeply satisfying romantic/sexual relationships. I specialize in treating sexual & religious trauma & working with LGBTQ+ folks on their journeys of identity discovery (Yes, I like working with cis/straight folks, too).
(202) 972-4561 View (202) 972-4561
Photo of Dr. Britt Lindon: Individual And Couples Counselor, PhD, Anxiety, Couples, Trauma, Psychologist
Dr. Britt Lindon: Individual And Couples Counselor
Psychologist, PhD, Anxiety, Couples, Trauma
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20024
I am a psychoanalyst & sex therapist comfortable working with kinks, non-traditional relationships, and poly people (including couples where one person is gung-ho and the partner is oh-no).
Modern relationships are HARD. It’s a struggle to find the right person OR to wonder if your current partner is possibly the wrong person. It’s tough when you feel burned by or totally confused about your path. Maybe you’ve even made choices or overlooked things you now regret. Or, maybe it’s a relationship with a boss or coworkers who undervalue you or play favorites with others. Your work ethic and good ideas have long taken a backseat to putting out fires or just avoiding things way more than you should. You’re past thinking that life’s fair. But, you never thought that things could go THIS wrong or get under your skin THIS much.
I am a psychoanalyst & sex therapist comfortable working with kinks, non-traditional relationships, and poly people (including couples where one person is gung-ho and the partner is oh-no).
Modern relationships are HARD. It’s a struggle to find the right person OR to wonder if your current partner is possibly the wrong person. It’s tough when you feel burned by or totally confused about your path. Maybe you’ve even made choices or overlooked things you now regret. Or, maybe it’s a relationship with a boss or coworkers who undervalue you or play favorites with others. Your work ethic and good ideas have long taken a backseat to putting out fires or just avoiding things way more than you should. You’re past thinking that life’s fair. But, you never thought that things could go THIS wrong or get under your skin THIS much.
(202) 915-1388 View (202) 915-1388
Photo of Michael A Vigorito, MFT, CGP, CST-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael A Vigorito
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CGP, CST-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
In addition to providing therapy for men concerned about their sexual health, I conduct individual and couple therapy for a variety presenting problems related to sexuality, mental health, substance use and wellness.
How do you know if your sexual behavior is out of control? It's a subjective question that many men unfortunately wait until relationship, occupational or medical consequences accumulate before considering. I believe the most important person to evaluate concerns with regulating sexual behavior is the man experiencing the dilemma. I start with two basic questions: "What is your conflict with your sexual behavior?" and "What is your vision for your sexual health?" Since 2001, I have provided a safe, informed and confidential space for sexual health conversations with heterosexual, gay and bisexual men.
In addition to providing therapy for men concerned about their sexual health, I conduct individual and couple therapy for a variety presenting problems related to sexuality, mental health, substance use and wellness.
How do you know if your sexual behavior is out of control? It's a subjective question that many men unfortunately wait until relationship, occupational or medical consequences accumulate before considering. I believe the most important person to evaluate concerns with regulating sexual behavior is the man experiencing the dilemma. I start with two basic questions: "What is your conflict with your sexual behavior?" and "What is your vision for your sexual health?" Since 2001, I have provided a safe, informed and confidential space for sexual health conversations with heterosexual, gay and bisexual men.
(202) 949-7872 View (202) 949-7872
Photo of Tamara Hope Pincus - The Pincus Center, LICSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Pincus Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CST
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
The Pincus Center specializes in sex positive therapy for individuals and relationships.
The Pincus Center specializes in working with clients to build a life filled with pleasure and joy. We will help you to find your inner voice, establish your own goals and find a path that works for you. There is no one true way to do therapy or to live your life. We will help you find the tools to ride the waves of emotions that we all experience instead of being pulled under. We can't make everything perfect but we can make it better. We focus on issues around body acceptance, sexual freedom, neurodiversity, shame, low desire, sexual functioning issues and a wide variety of other mental health issues.
The Pincus Center specializes in sex positive therapy for individuals and relationships.
The Pincus Center specializes in working with clients to build a life filled with pleasure and joy. We will help you to find your inner voice, establish your own goals and find a path that works for you. There is no one true way to do therapy or to live your life. We will help you find the tools to ride the waves of emotions that we all experience instead of being pulled under. We can't make everything perfect but we can make it better. We focus on issues around body acceptance, sexual freedom, neurodiversity, shame, low desire, sexual functioning issues and a wide variety of other mental health issues.
(202) 499-2602 View (202) 499-2602
Photo of Marjorie Nightingale, PhD, JD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marjorie Nightingale
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, JD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy and Sex Therapy.
My ideal clients are those who are experiencing difficulties with their relationships and are looking for a compassionate person to validate that what they are experiencing is real and legitimate. I enjoy working with clients who have decided that wherever they are is not where they want to be and today is the day to make change. Therapy is not always easy or fast, but it has the power to shift one from hopeless to joyful for those who are willing to do the hard work.
I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy and Sex Therapy.
My ideal clients are those who are experiencing difficulties with their relationships and are looking for a compassionate person to validate that what they are experiencing is real and legitimate. I enjoy working with clients who have decided that wherever they are is not where they want to be and today is the day to make change. Therapy is not always easy or fast, but it has the power to shift one from hopeless to joyful for those who are willing to do the hard work.
(202) 831-3045 View (202) 831-3045
Photo of Camille Espinoza, LCSW-C, LICSW, MSPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Camille Espinoza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, MSPH
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
Get qualified help for your relationship from a couple's therapy specialist and AASECT certified sex therapist. You'll receive hands-on support to work through your conflicts about identity, money, intimacy, children, family, career, emotions, or major life decisions. No matter where you are in your relationship, therapy can help you connect, repair and grow. Using a combination of effective therapy models and the latest research, we will work together to achieve your relationship goals by practicing new skills in session. We can also address any concerns you have about sex and intimacy.
Get qualified help for your relationship from a couple's therapy specialist and AASECT certified sex therapist. You'll receive hands-on support to work through your conflicts about identity, money, intimacy, children, family, career, emotions, or major life decisions. No matter where you are in your relationship, therapy can help you connect, repair and grow. Using a combination of effective therapy models and the latest research, we will work together to achieve your relationship goals by practicing new skills in session. We can also address any concerns you have about sex and intimacy.
(202) 951-8531 View (202) 951-8531
Photo of Jasalynne Northcross, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jasalynne Northcross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011
As a sex therapist, I understand the sensitive nature of the topics we explore.
Whether you're grappling with issues related to intimacy, communication, sexual identity, or desire, I am here to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for your exploration and growth. From couples grappling with communication breakdowns to individuals struggling with sexual performance anxiety or concerns about their sexual orientation or gender identity, every situation is unique. The goals of my clients are as diverse as their backgrounds. Still, they all share a common thread: the desire for a more fulfilling, authentic, and healthy relationship with themselves and their partners.
As a sex therapist, I understand the sensitive nature of the topics we explore.
Whether you're grappling with issues related to intimacy, communication, sexual identity, or desire, I am here to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for your exploration and growth. From couples grappling with communication breakdowns to individuals struggling with sexual performance anxiety or concerns about their sexual orientation or gender identity, every situation is unique. The goals of my clients are as diverse as their backgrounds. Still, they all share a common thread: the desire for a more fulfilling, authentic, and healthy relationship with themselves and their partners.
(202) 968-3618 View (202) 968-3618
Photo of Lori Shapiro, LCSW-C, lCISWC, AASECT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Shapiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, lCISWC, AASECT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
HeartWerq Lori Shapiro, LICSW Senior Clinician Clinical Social Worker, Certified Sex Therapist, Marriage and Couples Therapist (She/Her) Lori Shapiro is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Supervisor with more than 20 years of experience. Her practice focuses on working with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of issues, including couples counseling, sex therapy, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity support, as well as unique individual challenges. Lori has received degrees from Florida Atlantic University and Barry University (Master’s in Social Work) and also has a certification in sex therapy f
HeartWerq Lori Shapiro, LICSW Senior Clinician Clinical Social Worker, Certified Sex Therapist, Marriage and Couples Therapist (She/Her) Lori Shapiro is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Supervisor with more than 20 years of experience. Her practice focuses on working with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of issues, including couples counseling, sex therapy, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity support, as well as unique individual challenges. Lori has received degrees from Florida Atlantic University and Barry University (Master’s in Social Work) and also has a certification in sex therapy f
(240) 669-2573 View (240) 669-2573
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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.