I’m curious about sex therapy, give me the details on how to find a sex therapist near me. 

 

Are you interested in sex therapy, but don’t know where to start? Maybe you have some questions about what a sex therapist is, what they do, and the different terms for sex therapy. The Respark Therapy experts are ready to help you learn where to find a sex therapist and decode all of the terminology that may be unfamiliar to you. 

Our easy answer to how to find a sex therapist near me is to search for your location and the term “sex therapy” in a search engine like Google, ask for recommendations from family and friends, or search an accredited directory for sex therapy, like the AASECT (American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists) Directory.

However, not every therapist is a sex therapist and has the training and knowledge to support your needs. It’s important that the sex therapist you contact has experience in your areas of concern. For example, every Respark Therapist has received  200+ hours in sex therapy with training in couples therapy issues from one of the biggest comprehensive training programs in the world, Sexual Health Alliance. Additionally, many Respark therapists have done postgraduate training in couples therapy. 

Many of Respark Therapists have additional highly specialized certifications including year-long training programs in Kink Informed Certification, Problem Sexual Behavior Certified (“Sex Addiction”), Open/Poly Certified and other critical issues related to relationships and sexual health.

If you are asking how to find a sex therapist near me, you are already taking the first step to find a sex therapist to support your needs. This can be hard, so give yourself a star for taking the first step!

What kind of therapist do I need for sex?  

If you’re experiencing issues related to sex or sexuality, you might wonder what kind of therapist you need for those specific concerns. Not all therapists specialize in sexuality, so it’s important to look for a therapist who has training and experience in this field. For sex and sexuality related issues, you need a sex therapist or sex counselor. If you have difficulty finding a qualified sex therapist near you, online sex therapy is a great choice. 

 

There are many reasons you might see a therapist for sex and sexuality issues. The list below are just some examples: 

 

• Body dysmorphia and body confidence or image issues
• Shame reduction
• Depression and anxiety
• Personal growth
• Sex education, coaching, or counseling
• Relationship and intimacy concerns 
• Trauma 
• Addiction including “sex addiction” 
• Self-harming behaviors 
• Developing deeper connections 
• Escapism, lack of concentration, trouble sleeping

 

Finding an experienced, certified sex therapist near you who understands your unique needs is fundamental to successful sex therapy. Properly trained sex therapists have not only taken additional classes on sexuality and received supervised training in sex therapy but should have also explored their sexual attitudes, biases, and beliefs.

Where should I look for sex therapy? How do I find a sex therapist near me?

So you’ve started your search, and you’re wondering, how do I find a sex therapist near me? We have three recommendations for how you can find a sex therapist near your location. 

 

1. Search an accredited directory for sex therapy, like the AASECT (American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists) Directory.

 

1. If you enjoy a kink-friendly lifestyle and are looking for sex-positive support for kink, check out the Kink Aware Professionals Directory.

 

1. If you are looking for AASECT accredited sex therapists, check out Respark Sex Therapy where you can visit a sex therapist in person at our Austin, Texas locations, or schedule a convenient online appointment. 

 

These three recommendations should help in your search for a sex therapist near me. The most important factors are that your new sex therapist is knowledgeable and affirming of your sexual desires. Your therapist should provide a confidential, shame-free space for self expression and exploration. 

 

The sex therapists at Respark are inclusive of all orientations, lifestyles, beliefs, and relationship practices. Our couples and individual counselors are able to address a wide spectrum of issues that many partnerships and individuals face, from loss of passion to identity issues and parenting problems. If you’re having difficulty finding a qualified sex therapist near you, Respark Online Sex Therapy is a great option for your sex therapy needs. 

What is the difference between a sex therapist and a sex counselor?

I’m interested in finding a sex therapist near me, but I’m not sure if I should look for a sex therapist or a sex counselor. What’s the difference? This is an excellent question! The difference between a sex therapist and a sex counselor is outlined by AASECT (American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists). 

 

AASECT Certified Sex Therapists are licensed mental health professionals (or the equivalent in approved countries), trained to assess, diagnose, and provide in-depth psychotherapy, who have specialized in treating clients with sexual issues and concerns. Sex therapists work with sexual concerns, including, but not limited to: sexual function and dysfunction; sexual pleasure; sexual variation; sexuality and disability; sexuality and chronic illness; sexual development across the lifespan; sexual abuse, assault, and coercion; sexual orientation; gender identity. In addition, where appropriate, are prepared to provide comprehensive and intensive psychotherapy over an extended period of time in more complex cases.

 

AASECT Certified Sexuality Counselors represent a variety of professions, ranging from medicine to the clergy. Examples of sexuality counselors are Planned Parenthood counselors, nurses and other health professionals, school counselors, and clinical pastoral care and counseling providers. Counselors assist the client to realistically resolve concerns through the introduction of problem solving techniques of communication as well as providing accurate information and relevant suggestions of specific exercises and techniques in sexual expression. Sexuality counseling is generally short term and client centered, focusing on the immediate concern or problem.

 

If you are looking for psychotherapy over an extended period of time, finding a sex therapist may be the best option for you. The professional sex therapists at Respark are AASECT Certified Sex Therapists and are available to assist with a wide spectrum of sexual health concerns.

Can I talk to a regular therapist about sex? There are regular therapists near me, but I’m looking for a sex therapist near me. 

If you already have a good relationship with your therapist and they are knowledgeable about your sexuality concerns, they could be a good option. Some “regular therapists” have experience and knowledge working with sexual issues. It’s possible they have specialty certifications, but don’t label themselves as a “sex therapist”. 

 

Ultimately, the choice of your therapist comes down to your preferences and research. Feel confident that you can ask a therapist questions about their education and experience in the sexual concerns you have. It’s possible that a standard mental health therapist has some knowledge in sex therapy. If the therapist has been AASECT certified or taken courses with an internationally recognized organization like Sexual Health Alliance, this demonstrates they have advanced knowledge and training in sexuality. 

 

A recent Healthline article about sex therapy has several recommendations for finding a sex therapist near you. “A Google or Psychology Today search for therapists in your area or call your local hospital or community education office. Many of these organizations will happily provide information on sex therapists in their hospital network.”

 

Additionally, if you are looking for a sex therapist near you try one of the following: 

 

• Call your insurance company, they can provide in network providers closest to you
• Talk with your primary care doctor and ask for a recommendation
• Speak with your gynecologist, urologist, or obstetrician and ask for a referral 
• Ask your close friends and family if they know of a sex therapist who would be a good fit for your needs 

 

The expert sex therapists at Respark believe that sex is something to be celebrated, and we pride ourselves on welcoming you no matter what your sexuality, race, or what you may be facing. Our therapists create a safe and welcoming environment where you can experience in-person sex therapy or online sex therapy services. We even offer a complimentary consultation with one of our esteemed therapists to help you get a better understanding of our services, what you may be needing, and how we can better help you.