How can we help you?
Of course you have questions! This is a good thing – questions mean that you are invested in the process. We've collected some commonly asked questions here for you to look through:
Sex and Intimacy Therapy
Relationship coaches can offer general support and strategies for improving communication or reaching goals in a relationship, but they aren’t licensed mental health professionals. A couples therapist is clinically trained and licensed to address deeper emotional, relational, and psychological issues, including trauma, attachment patterns, and long-standing conflict.
Therapists also adhere to strict ethical and confidentiality standards and often integrate research-based approaches like the Gottman Method. If you're dealing with repeated arguments, emotional disconnection, or intimacy struggles, working with a licensed couples therapist is likely the most effective choice.
Sex & Intimacy Therapy in Seattle
Not at all. Many concerns related to sex and intimacy—such as low libido, challenges with arousal, or difficulty forming emotional bonds—can exist independently of a romantic partnership. Whether you’re currently single, dating, or navigating complex dynamics with a partner, individual therapy can be a powerful space to explore sexual concerns.
Even when you are in a relationship, it’s not always possible or appropriate for your partner to attend sessions. Sex and intimacy therapy can still be highly effective when attended solo, allowing you to focus on your own growth, healing, and understanding of how you relate to sexuality and connection.
Reach out if you'd like help exploring these topics—we're here when you're ready.
Sex therapy at our Seattle practice functions much like any other individual therapy or relationship counseling session—the key difference is that the focus is specifically on concerns related to sexuality and intimacy. Our therapists, including certified sex therapy professionals, are specially trained to help you explore challenges like mismatched desire, low or no libido, compulsive sexual behavior, or sexless relationships.
Treatment may include guided conversations, psychoeducation, and homework between sessions to support growth and change. Clients often benefit from learning known solutions and strategies to restore connection and pleasure.
Sex Therapy Standards and Ethics
Sex therapy is always governed by professional standards, including those of the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT). It’s important to clarify that sex therapy never involves physical touch or sexual activity in session. All participants are fully clothed and sessions are conducted within clear, ethical, and professional boundaries.
Reach out with any questions about what sex therapy might look like for you.
Becoming a certified sex therapist requires extensive training and experience. The American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT) sets rigorous standards for education, supervised clinical work, and ongoing consultation in the field of sex and intimacy therapy.
Expertise and Training in Sex Therapy
Sex therapists complete in-depth academic coursework, participate in specialized clinical trainings and peer consultation, and are mentored by leaders in the field. Our clinicians bring both advanced knowledge and compassionate care to help clients address concerns around intimacy, sexual desire, and more.
Personally, I (Justin Pere) have trained extensively with Dr. Tina Schermer Sellers at Seattle Pacific University and Dr. Stella Resnick in Los Angeles, two leading voices in the field of sexual health and intimacy.
Connect with a Certified Sex Therapist in Seattle or Online
If you're seeking a therapist who specializes in sexual health, or if you'd like to explore whether individual counseling or relationship therapy might also be helpful, we’re here to support you. Reach out to Clarity Counseling Seattle to learn more.