What is Sex Therapy?

Sex therapy is a specialized form of therapy that focuses on sexual concerns or difficulties.  What happens in a sex therapy session is similar to what happens in other counseling sessions.  We meet in my office and talk about your sexual issues, concerns, or behaviors, as well as, other themes in your life.  Each session is unique and tailored to help you address your specific circumstances. 

If you are coming in because of a problem or difficulties we will look at how long it has been going on and what has or hasn’t helped in the past.  If you are in a relationship we may explore that too as sometimes other areas of your relationship can affect your sexuality.  We may also talk about different things you can try at home between sessions (this may include reading, watching videos, talking with your partner, or trying different activities alone or with your partner).

You will never be asked to remove your clothing or to do anything in a therapy session that may make you feel uncomfortable.  In no instances will a Sex Therapist engage in any kind of sexual activity with a client, whether in the office or in any location.  To do so is a breach of ethics, and in some states and provinces is a crime.

Do you work with clients around themes other than sex and relationships?

Absolutely.  If you are looking for counseling for a reason that is not sexually or relationship-based please feel free to contact me and we will see if it’s a good fit.  Also, if you initially start counseling to address sexuality or relations and something else becomes a bigger concern we can address it.

How long does counseling take?

There is no “right answer.”  Some people come to counseling for a few sessions and others continue coming for a longer period of time. 

The length of counseling can depend on multiple things, including the number of problems/concerns you want to address, the complexity of the problem/s, how long it has been going on, and the amount of time you can spend working on your difficulties between sessions.  If at any time you feel “stuck” or that you aren’t making progress please bring that up with me.

Is therapy confidential?

In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a counselor. I will not disclose your information without written permission. However, there are a number of exceptions to this rule.

Exceptions include:

• Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse.

• If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s.

• If a client intends to harm himself or herself.

• Reporting information required by court proceeds or defense of claims brought by a client against the counselor.

• Possible case consultation with counselor’s supervisor.

We will discuss confidentiality during our first session.  Please let me know if you have any questions about confidentiality or the above exceptions.

Do you take insurance?

I am not affiliated with any insurance companies.  I am happy to provide you with a receipt that may allow you to file an insurance claim for your session.

What does LPC mean?

I am a licensed professional counselor.  I’ve completed thousands of hours supporting diverse couples and relationships. As an LPC I abide by the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists Code of Ethics.

If you have any questions that aren’t addressed on this page, please check my services page or contact me directly.