Sex Therapy
What Is Sex Therapy?
Sex therapy is a supportive and non-judgmental space to explore challenges related to intimacy, desire, sexual functioning, or personal identity. These concerns are often shaped by life experiences, relationship dynamics, trauma, cultural expectations, or religious messaging—and they can impact both individuals and couples.
Sexual wellbeing is an important part of overall mental health. Whether you’re feeling disconnected, confused, ashamed, or simply want to improve your intimate life, sex therapy can help you move toward greater clarity, confidence, and connection.
Common Concerns Addressed in Sex Therapy
People seek sex therapy for many reasons, including:
- Low desire, arousal issues, or difficulty experiencing pleasure
- Pain during sex or medical-related concerns
- Sexual shame, fear, and past sexual trauma or abuse
- Mismatched libidos in a relationship
- Cultural or religious conflicts around sex and identity
- Communication challenges related to intimacy
- Stress or anxiety related to sexual performance
- Insecurities about one’s body affecting sexual confidence
- Rebuilding trust and intimacy after infidelity
These issues are more common than most people realize—and you’re not alone in wanting support.
How We Support Sexual Wellbeing
At Maribel Ayala Psychotherapy and Consulting, we offer sex therapy that is trauma-informed, inclusive, and attuned to each person’s lived experience. Maribel has completed advanced training in sex therapy through the University of Guelph and is experienced in working with a wide range of sexual and relational concerns.
We work with:
- Individuals navigating shame, trauma, or identity-related challenges
- Couples exploring intimacy, desire differences, or rebuilding sexual connection
- Clients seeking to better understand their own body, needs, and boundaries
Our approach integrates talk therapy, body-based techniques, and emotional processing to support healing and reconnection in ways that feel safe and respectful.
Tips for Supporting Sexual Wellbeing Outside of Therapy
While sex therapy provides a safe place for exploration, here are some steps you can take on your own:
- Learn about your body: Understanding your anatomy can reduce shame and increase self-connection
- Challenge shame-based beliefs: Ask yourself where your sexual messages came from and if they still serve you
- Communicate openly: Practice expressing your needs and boundaries in safe, small ways
- Create space for pleasure: Pleasure isn’t just sexual—it’s about joy, rest, and playfulness too
- Stay curious: Your sexual identity and preferences can evolve, and that’s okay
- Avoid comparison: Everyone’s experience with intimacy is unique—there’s no “normal” way to be
Healing in this area can take time, but every step toward self-understanding is meaningful.
