Couples and Sex Therapy
Couples Therapy:
Couples therapy is a type of counseling that aims to improve communication and strengthen the emotional connection between partners. It can be helpful for couples at any stage of their relationship, whether they just got married or have been together for a long time. Many sexual issues can also be addressed through couples therapy.
Sometimes when there are sexual problems or dysfunctions, one partner may mistakenly believe that it's solely their issue. For example, men with erectile issues might think it's their own "problem" and seek individual therapy. However, in many cases, the dynamics between the couple play a role in, worsen, or are negatively affected by the problem. So even if it didn't start out as a problem for both partners, it often becomes one. Additionally, the treatment options often involve both partners participating and supporting each other. They work together as a team to heal.
To start couples therapy, I conduct a thorough assessment to fully understand the couples therapeutic needs. This includes an initial interview with both partners together, individual interviews with each partner, an online questionnaire that I will use alongside the information from the interviews, and a second meeting with both partners present to go over my impressions and treatment recommendations.
Individual Therapy
Individual therapy:
When I work with clients as their therapist, I will sometimes use one-on-one therapy as the main approach for those who are dealing with trauma that affects their relationships and daily life, or for those who struggle with long-standing patterns in relationships that they want to change. While it's often possible to address these issues in couples therapy, it can sometimes be important for individuals to first work through trauma, complex trauma, childhood problems, and the impact of mental health issues on relationships before involving their partner. In some cases, I also provide one-on-one therapy for clients seeking help with sex therapy and relationship concerns, especially if they are currently not in a relationship or if their partner is unable or unwilling to participate in treatment. Additionally, I support and work with LGBTQ+ clients and those in consensually non-monogamous relationships, addressing various issues within the context of their lifestyle and identity.
Individual therapy fees:
For a 60-minute initial session with individual clients, my fee is $275.
For 45-minute individual sessions, my fee is $210.
I also offer 90-minute sessions, which are often useful for trauma work and EMDR, for a fee of $420.
I am not in network for any insurance companies:
I don't work with insurance companies because they put too many restrictions on therapy sessions. Instead of letting therapists decide how long, how often, and what kind of treatment is needed based on clinical judgment and client preference, insurance companies try to control these aspects. I'm also concerned about the lack of confidentiality, as insurance companies often require the release of records. If you have out-of-network benefits, I can give you a superbill that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. However, it's important to know that if you use these benefits, your records may be requested and if the insurance company determines that the services were unnecessary or not covered, they could require you to pay back the money they paid you. I only provide the superbill and don't participate in audits. If you have HRA, FSA, or HSA accounts, you can use those funds to pay for therapy. Before using your out-of-network benefits, make sure to check what they cover and consider the potential issues involved.