individual sex therapy in Paradise valley, AZ

Perhaps the world around you has flooded you with messages of shame and disgust about your sexual preferences because they are unconventional. You feel confused about what is healthy and what isn’t when it comes to sex. It’s possible that the environment you grew up in taught you that sex could only look one particular way. You are tired of carrying the shame and living in secrecy.

Perhaps you have so much anxiety about sex and your body that you cannot engage in a sexual experience without being intoxicated. You feel as if sex has to be performative and are confused about what an everyday or healthy sex life looks like. You may be someone who dreads sex because of how physically painful it can be. You feel ashamed and confused about why your body just won’t cooperate when it’s time to engage in sexual activities. You find yourself doing anything you can to avoid your partner’s sexual advances. You long to access pleasure but are blocked by confusion, shame, and fear.

There’s a part of you that desires to untangle the myths, anxiety, and shame that’s prevented you from creating a thriving sex life. You feel overwhelmed trying to decipher what’s acceptable and what’s not appropriate when it comes to your sexuality. You long to find someone you trust who understands how to make it safe to open up about one of the most vulnerable aspects of your humanity.

Methods I Use as a Sex Therapist

  • Provides information about sexual health, anatomy, arousal, and common sexual issues to dispel myths

  • It helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors related to sex and their bodies

  • Aids in reducing anxiety and enhancing present-moment awareness during sexual activity.

  • A series of touch-based exercises designed to reduce anxiety and increase intimacy between oneself and their partner(s)

  • Provides accurate information about anatomy, sexual response, and healthy sexual behaviors.

    Corrects myths and misconceptions about sex.

  • Uses techniques like meditation and body awareness to improve intimacy.

    Helps individuals focus on the present moment and reduce sexual anxiety.

  • Helps individuals reprocess trauma through a structured eight-phase protocol that incorporates bilateral stimulation to reprocess traumatic memories. EMDR is recognized as an effective treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related conditions.

  • Uses exercises and strategies to address specific issues like premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, or sexual avoidance.

    Includes techniques such as desensitization, start-stop methods, and gradual exposure.

It is of the utmost importance to me that I am staying informed and up to date with current research about sex. I utilize evidence-based practices. Each treatment plan is customized based on my client's specific issues and goals. With the correct knowledge, we can begin healing and create the relationship with sex that we truly desire.

sex therapy can help you

  • Address problems such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, lack of sexual desire, anorgasmia, or pain during sex.

  • Reduce anxiety and pressure related to sexual performance.

  • Improved self-esteem and body confidence to enhance sexual experiences.

  • Dismantle shame surrounding sexual orientation and identity.

  • Understand and manage out-of-control sexual behaviors.

  • Develop pleasure enhancement skills and overcome personal barriers to sexual pleasure.

  • Address differences in sexual desire between partners.

  • Dismantle shame surrounding fetishes and kinks.

  • Gain accurate knowledge about sexual health, safe practices, and the human sexual response cycle.

  • Changes due to life transitions. Such as sexuality after childbirth or menopause, changes in sexual functioning due to aging, or the impact of medical conditions or medications on sex.

Whether you are queer, straight, polyamorous, monogamous, vanilla, or kinky, you deserve a relationship with sex that is free from shame and anxiety. One that allows you to access and enjoy all the pleasure that you can experience in your body and your romantic relationship(s). I am honored to be a part of your sexual healing journey and look forward to connecting with you!

Disclaimer: I do not work with nonconsensual sexual issues.

Start Sex Therapy in Scottsdale & Online Throughout Arizona

Reignite intimacy, build confidence, and embrace a fulfilling sex life with compassionate, expert guidance. At The Connection Couch in Paradise Valley, my individualized sex therapy sessions provide a safe, judgment-free space to explore your concerns, whether you're facing challenges with desire, intimacy, shame, or past experiences. Working with a skilled sex therapist, you’ll gain the tools and understanding to create meaningful change. If you're ready to take the first step toward a healthier, more satisfying relationship with sex then I can help. Follow these steps to get started:

  1. Reach out for a free consultation with me

  2. Schedule your first appointment for individual sex therapy

  3. Begin your sexual healing journey with support!

Other Online Therapy Services Offered in Arizona

As a therapist, I offer more than just individual sex therapy. I also specialize in working with couples through sex therapy and infidelity recovery. Additionally, I provide support for those who have experienced sexual trauma.

FAQs for individual sex therapy

At The Connection Couch, we understand that discussing sexual concerns can feel vulnerable, and we’re here to support you with compassion and expertise. Here are some common questions people have about individual sex therapy.

  • Individual sex therapy is a form of therapy that helps you explore and address concerns related to your sexuality, intimacy, and sexual health. It provides a safe, confidential space to discuss challenges, understand underlying factors, and develop strategies for improvement.

  • Anyone experiencing concerns related to desire, arousal, performance, intimacy, body image, past trauma, or sexual identity can benefit. You don’t need to be in crisis—therapy can also help with self-exploration and enhancement of your sexual well-being.

  • No! Many individuals seek therapy for personal sexual concerns, self-discovery, or improving their relationship with their own sexuality, regardless of relationship status.

  • You are always in control of what you share. Your therapist will create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can discuss what feels comfortable at your own pace.

  • Sessions typically involve open, guided discussions about your concerns, feelings, and experiences. Your therapist may offer education, exercises, and personalized strategies to help address your goals. There is no physical examination or explicit demonstrations—everything is conversation-based.

  • The length of therapy depends on your unique goals and concerns. Some individuals benefit from just a few sessions, while others may choose ongoing support over time.

  • If you’re experiencing distress, dissatisfaction, or curiosity about any aspect of your sexual health or relationships, therapy could be a helpful and supportive space for exploration.

  • I am an out-of-network provider, which means I do not accept insurance directly. However, I can provide you with a monthly superbill that you can submit to your insurance for potential reimbursement. Coverage varies by provider and plan, so I encourage you to check with your insurance company for details.

  • Sex therapy can help improve self-esteem and body confidence by addressing negative beliefs, insecurities, and past experiences that impact how you feel about yourself. A sex therapist provides a safe and non-judgmental space to explore concerns about body image, intimacy, and self-worth. Through therapy, you can learn to challenge self-critical thoughts, develop a more positive relationship with your body, and embrace pleasure without shame or fear.

    Therapeutic techniques such as cognitive reframing, mindfulness, and self-compassion exercises can help shift the focus from perceived flaws to self-acceptance and appreciation.

    Additionally, working on communication and intimacy skills can enhance emotional connection with a partner, fostering a greater sense of confidence and comfort in your own skin. Over time, sex therapy can empower you to feel more secure in your identity, desires, and relationships.

  • A qualified sex therapist helps individuals and couples explore the physical, emotional, and psychological factors contributing to discomfort.

    • Identifying Underlying Causes – Pain during sex can have medical, psychological, or relational roots. A sex therapist can work alongside medical professionals to pinpoint contributing factors.

    • Addressing Anxiety and Fear – Fear of pain can create a cycle of tension that worsens discomfort. Therapy can help manage anxiety, shift negative thought patterns, and promote relaxation.

    • Improving Communication – Open discussions about desires, boundaries, and expectations can help partners find more comfortable and pleasurable ways to engage in intimacy.

    • Guided Behavioral Techniques – Therapists may suggest specific exercises, such as mindfulness, desensitization techniques, or guided touch exercises, to ease pain and improve comfort.

    • Referrals to Medical Professionals – If pain is linked to a medical condition, a sex therapist may refer clients to a gynecologist, pelvic floor therapist, or other healthcare providers for further evaluation and treatment.