Compulsory sexuality is the often-unspoken belief that everyone is supposed to experience sexual attraction, desire, and interest in sex—and that these experiences should look a certain way. While this assumption is deeply embedded in many cultures, it can be harmful, especially for individuals whose experiences fall outside these expectations. At Steffen Counseling Services, we specialize […]
Many women have been told—directly or indirectly—that pain during sex is just part of the experience. Whether it comes from media, past partners, cultural messaging, or even inadequate sex education, this belief is widespread. But it is also deeply misleading and, for many, harmful. Pain during sex may be common, but it is not normal.
The Myth That Pain During Sex Is “Normal” (And How Therapy Can Help) Read More »
Polyamory and consensual non-monogamy (CNM) are becoming more visible and more widely discussed, but visibility doesn’t always come with clarity. Many couples are curious about opening their relationship, yet not all motivations set them up for success. Understanding why you want to explore polyamory is one of the most important steps in determining whether it
Opening a Relationship: How to Know If You’re Doing It for the Right Reasons Read More »
If you’ve been feeling exhausted, unmotivated, or emotionally drained, you might be wondering whether you’re experiencing burnout vs depression. While these experiences can feel similar, they are not the same, and understanding the difference can help you get the right kind of support. At Steffen Counseling Services, we often help clients navigate burnout and depression,
Burnout vs Depression: How to Tell the Difference Read More »
When you use insurance for therapy, your therapist has to give you a mental health diagnosis and send that to your insurance company so they can decide whether to help pay for your sessions. This diagnosis for insurance therapy piece can feel uncomfortable or confusing, especially if you’re coming in for help with non-diagnosable issues
Commitment to Clarity: Understanding Why We Require a Diagnosis for Insurance Therapy Read More »
Juneteenth, observed on June 19th, marks the end of slavery in the United States and is a day that honors freedom, resilience, and Black history. While it is often celebrated with community, culture, and joy, it can also be a time of reflection and complex emotions. At our therapy practice, we view Juneteenth as an opportunity
Honoring Juneteenth: Mental Health, Reflection, and Collective Healing Read More »
Sex is often talked about as something that should feel natural, pleasurable, and connecting. But for many people, sensory experiences during sex—like touch, sound, smell, or even visual input—can feel overwhelming, uncomfortable, or distracting. If that’s true for you, you’re not alone, and there’s nothing “wrong” with you. At Steffen Counseling Services, we often work
Sex and Sensory Issues: How Sensory Sensitivities Affect Intimacy Read More »
Neurodivergence in children vs adults presents differently across the lifespan, yet it remains a lifelong neurological experience. Conditions such as ADHD and autism often appear more externally in children, while in adults they may be internalized or masked. Understanding how neurodivergence in children vs adults evolves over time can help individuals and families identify the
Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and it is completely normal to have a mix of emotions before your first therapy session. Many people wonder what will actually happen in that appointment and whether they need to prepare anything in advance. The short answer is: you do not need to have everything figured
What to Expect in Your First Therapy Session (Intake Session Guide) Read More »
Many people come to therapy wondering how to heal shame and feel more at ease with themselves. Shame is one of the most powerful, and often most hidden, emotions we experience. It can shape how we see ourselves, how we relate to others, and how safe we feel in our own bodies. In therapy, working
A Therapist’s Toolkit: Practical Tips on How to Heal Shame Read More »
