Sex therapy is a specialized form of talk therapy that helps individuals and couples work through concerns related to sexuality, intimacy, desire, pleasure, communication, and sexual function. Some people come in with a specific challenge. Others simply want a healthier, more fulfilling intimate relationship. Either way, sex therapy provides a safe, supportive space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
Sessions are entirely conversation-based, and there is never any physical contact. Your therapist will work with you to better understand what may be getting in the way of the relationship or sexual experience you want. Together, you can identify patterns, address concerns, and develop practical strategies in a confidential, respectful, and judgment-free environment.
Sex counseling supports a wide range of concerns for individuals and couples. If any of the following feel familiar, sex therapy may be a good fit for you:
Individual Concerns
Sexual health concerns and dysfunction
Shame and guilt around sex or sexuality
Processing sexual abuse from childhood or adulthood
Questions around gender identity and sexual orientation
Coming out as LGBTQIA+; deconstructing internalized homophobia or transphobia
Interest in kink and fetish-related behaviors
Desire to get comfortable with oneself sexually
Identifying personal sexual values and preferences
Couples and Relationship Concerns
Desire discrepancy and low desire
Difficulties with arousal and orgasm
Pain during sex
Intimacy and connection challenges
Improving sex life after having children or after losing sexual interest in a partner
Sex therapy can also help people explore identity, navigate shame, heal from sexual trauma, or improve communication with a partner. More than what is listed above, if you have any concerns or challenges you are trying to navigate, reach out to us, and we can help you find the right options for you.
Many therapists are comfortable discussing sexuality, but not all have specialized training in sex therapy. The leading credential in the field is certification through AASECT (the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists). Only about 5% of clinicians in the United States hold this certification, which requires extensive education, specialized coursework, and more than 1,000 hours of supervised clinical practice.
Our practice is led by Brittany Steffen, our Owner and AASECT-certified sex therapist, and our clinicians who specialize in sex therapy receive AASECT-certified supervision. That means your care is guided by nationally recognized standards and informed by ongoing expert mentorship.
When you work with one of our sex therapists, you can feel confident knowing their training and clinical approach have been shaped by one of the highest standards in the field.
We work with both individuals and couples. Our approach is inclusive and trauma-informed, welcoming LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples in open or polyamorous relationships, and anyone navigating identity-affirming concerns. Whoever you are and whatever you are working through, you deserve to feel respected, understood, and supported in the room.
Sex therapy sessions are simply conversations with a specially trained therapist in a private, supportive setting that will help you explore the thoughts, emotions, relationship dynamics, or life experiences that may be contributing to these challenges. Together, you will identify practical strategies to help you build the healthier, more satisfying intimate life you want.
Your therapist’s role is to create a safe, judgment-free space where you can ask questions, discuss sensitive topics openly, and feel supported throughout the process.
For a deeper look at finding the right fit, read our guide on how to find the right sex therapist in Seattle.
We see sex therapy clients in person at our Seattle offices in Fremont and Georgetown and at our office in Tacoma, and we offer telehealth sessions to clients throughout Washington State. Whichever option fits your life, you will work with a therapist trained specifically in sex therapy.
A specific challenge, or simply the desire to strengthen your relationship with yourself or your partner, can be reason enough to begin. Sex therapy is a powerful investment in your well-being. Seeking support is not a sign that something is wrong. It is an opportunity to better understand yourself, improve communication, and build the kind of intimate life you want.
Our team of specialized therapists is here to provide compassionate, evidence-based care in a welcoming, judgment-free environment. Getting started is simple.
You do not have to navigate questions about sex, intimacy, or relationships on your own. When you are ready, we are here to help you take the next step.
01
Complete a short questionnaire.
Tell us a little about what brings you to therapy, your goals, and what you are looking for in a therapist.
02
Get matched with the right therapist.
We carefully review your responses and connect you with a therapist whose training and expertise best fit your needs.
03
Schedule your first session.
Once you've been matched, our team will help you find an appointment time that works with your schedule so you can begin your journey with confidence.
No. Sex therapy at our practice is talk therapy only. Sessions involve conversation; there is no physical contact of any kind. Your therapist guides a structured discussion about your concerns in a confidential, judgment-free setting.
A sex therapy session is a conversation with a trained therapist. You discuss your concerns, such as desire differences, intimacy challenges, shame, or sexual trauma, and your therapist helps you understand what is getting in the way and how to move forward. Sessions are confidential and focused entirely on your goals.
AASECT (American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists) sets the professional standard for sex therapy training. Only about 5% of U.S. clinicians are AASECT-certified, and becoming certified requires over 1,000 hours of supervised practice. Our owner holds AASECT certification, which means therapists on our team who specialize in sex therapy receive AASECT-certified supervision, supporting a high standard of accountable care.
Yes. We work with both individuals and couples. Common couples concerns include desire discrepancy, pain during sex, intimacy challenges, and rebuilding connection after major life changes. We also support LGBTQ+ couples and those in open or polyamorous relationships.
Session costs vary depending on the therapist and your insurance coverage. Visit our low-cost therapy page for current pricing information. We are in-network with Premera, and Molina Healthcare is accepted through our interns, who also offer sliding-scale rates.
Sexual concerns deserve the same quality of care as any other mental health challenge. Complete a short questionnaire and we will match you with a sex therapist whose specialty fits your needs. Prefer to talk first? Call us at (206) 535-1787.
