Sex Therapy vs Intimacy Consulting
Which is right for me?
What is Sex Therapy?
Sex therapy is typically an additional topic that is addressed in couples counseling. It is open in-person or virtually to Missouri residents only (due to licensure). In sessions, we’ll address the why as well as the what and how of your sexual intimacy concerns. In other words, we will work through (the therapy part) mental health and root causes of your concern and then we will go over exercises and utilize different modalities (the sex therapy part) to improve how you engage your sexuality and sexual relationship.
Sex therapy is a form of therapy that focuses on helping individuals and couples with sexual concerns or issues. This can include concerns related to sexual function, desire discrepancy, intimacy and relationship issues, sexual trauma, gender and sexual identity, and other sexuality concerns.
Intimacy consulting is not a replacement for mental health counseling or couples therapy. Intimacy consulting sessions are dedicated to addressing a particular sexual health problem without mental health diagnoses taking center stage. Consultations are focused on education, problem-solving, and providing resources in a nonjudgmental environment.
What is Intimacy Consulting?
Intimacy consulting services are meant to enhance, educate, and encourage you on your sexual health journey. These sessions take place virtually and are open to individuals and couples nationwide. In sessions, we’ll discuss the why but focus on the what and how of your sexual intimacy concerns. In other words, we will talk about but not work through the mental health aspects and root causes of your concern and will instead focus on exercises and education to improve how you engage your sexuality and sexual relationship.
Common Issues addressed in Session
Sexual Shame
One of the most important aspects of my work as a sex therapist is addressing sexual shame. Sexual shame can manifest in many ways, from feeling bad or anxious about sexual desires to experiencing negative body image or difficulty with intimacy. I am passionate about helping clients heal from sexual shame, so they can be free to experience healthy and fulfilling sexual relationships. I work with clients to explore their beliefs about sex and sexuality and to develop a healthier, more accurate view of their own sexuality and how God created them as sexual beings.
I believe sexuality and spirituality are deeply interconnected, and my goal is to help clients find a sense of wholeness and integration in their sexual and spiritual lives. Through a faith-based approach, I work with clients to explore the ways in which their faith and values connect with their sexual experiences and feelings of shame. By addressing these underlying issues, we can work towards greater sexual health and overall wellbeing.
Vaginismus, Sexual Pain, and Penetration Anxiety
One of my areas of expertise is in working with women with vaginismus, a condition characterized by involuntary contraction of the pelvic floor muscles that can make intercourse and other forms of vaginal penetration painful or impossible. Vaginismus can have a significant impact on a woman's quality of life and her relationships and can be difficult to treat without specialized training and support.
Vaginismus is, unfortunately, very common in women with conservative religious backgrounds. Women who are told that sex is dirty or painful or only for the man are not set up for success when it comes to sexual relationships. I am here to help. Whether you have religion in your past or present, I will meet you where you are and help you overcome the toxic messages you received about what it means to be a sexual being. You are worthy of sexual pleasure and a satisfying sexual relationship—let me help you get there!
If you have not been diagnosed with vaginismus but struggle with painful intercourse or anxiety related to penetration, you are not alone. I will work with you to address any related traumas or anxieties, equip you in relaxation exercises, and guide you and your partner in a sexual retraining process as you learn to experience enjoyment and intimacy with sensual and sexual touch. I am here to provide the support and guidance you need to achieve greater sexual health and wellbeing. I believe every individual and couple deserves to experience the joy and intimacy that comes from a healthy and fulfilling sex life, and I am committed to helping my clients achieve that goal.
Sexual Desire Discrepancies
Conflict over sexual desire discrepancies and sexual frequency are the most common sexual complaints of couples seeking therapy. Did you know the majority of couples have at least one partner who has a more receptive/non-initiating desire (commonly referred to as “low” desire)? If you and your partner need help with navigating differences in sexual desire, initiation communication, and frequency expectations, you’ve come to the right place! I can work with you in seeking mutual understanding, addressing expectations, and helping each other feel loved and cherished in your sexual relationship.
