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Frequently Asked Questions

Check out the list of frequently asked questions below or contact Dr. Melissa Risso today for more personalized answers to your questions.

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What Is Sex Therapy?

Sex therapy is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on sexual issues. Sex therapy is beneficial to anyone who wants to improve their relationship with intimacy and pleasure. It can be especially helpful for those who are exploring their sexual identities or individuals having difficulty with a lack of arousal, painful intercourse, an inability to reach orgasm, or other sexual challenges.

Additionally, it can address some of the more general issues that a person may be experiencing, such as anxiety, self-esteem, depression, and relationship issues - sometimes treated with couple’s therapy.

FAQ

FAQ

Individuals of all ages, genders, sexual orientations, and ethnic backgrounds, as well as those who have a partner and those who are single, can benefit from sex therapy.

For some, the decision to seek out help for sexual issues can be difficult and, often, a little anxiety-provoking. However, addressing sexual issues can lead to a more complete and balanced life, and may assist with other difficulties that, in whole or in part, are related to one’s sexual health. 

WHO IS A GOOD FIT FOR SEX THERAPY?

FAQ

People seek relationship and couples therapy when they are tired and angry after years of struggle or neglect, when they are betrayed and broken in the aftermath of infidelity, when they realize that they are living life without its most joyous offerings - love and romance.

Couples typically seek counseling when they realize that they love each other but can’t seem to say it with any sense of emotional stirring. They come when they wake up one day and see a stranger who's been sharing their bed for years.

Learn more about the benefits of relationship therapy here.

WHY DO COUPLES SEEK RELATIONSHIP COUNSELING?

FAQ

Therapy can be short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing more complex concerns or ongoing personal growth. Typically, clients commit to counseling for 6 months and progress is measured monthly. 

HOW LONG DOES THERAPY TAKE?

FAQ

Therapy requires a commitment. We have observed that our clients reach their goals most efficiently and effectively when meeting weekly.

When clients attend sessions infrequently, each session can feel like playing "catch up" and gaps might lead to relapse into old patterns.

We don't want that for you! We strive to get you to your therapy goals, and in doing so, this requires frequent meetings in order to move consistently towards your most joyful and empowered life.

HOW OFTEN WILL WE MEET?

FAQ

Every therapy session is unique to each individual and couple based on their goals for coming in. It is standard for therapists to discuss the primary issues and concerns in your life during sessions. There may be times when you are asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading relevant books or keeping records to track certain behaviors. It is important to process what has been discussed and integrate it into your life between sessions. 

Generally speaking, during the first 1-3 sessions, we will do a thorough history and establish specific goals for your therapy. In the following 3-4 sessions, we will specifically develop skills and resources for dealing with the current stressors that brought you into counseling. In the final stages, we will deeply explore the problems that brought you to counseling that can help you long-term. 


Some other things you can expect out of therapy are:

  • Compassion, respect, and understanding
  • Perspectives to highlight patterns and negative feelings
  • Real strategies for enacting positive change
  • Effective and proven techniques along with practice guidance

WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM SEX THERAPY?

FAQ

For therapy to be most effective, you must be an active participant in the process, both during and between sessions. People seeking counseling are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change, and create greater awareness in their lives. 

As a result of being an active participant in therapy, people quite often start to feel better by session 2 or session 3. If things are not improving by session 6 or 7, we are going to change up the approach to make sure that you're reaching your goals. And if we decide together that we’re not making progress at the rate we want, we’ll look at referring you out to another therapist, coach, or another resource.

How will I see results?

FAQ

We have a 48-hour cancellation policy, so if you need to cancel, make sure you give your therapist 48-hours notice to avoid paying the late cancellation fee, which is the full session rate.

We charge the full session rate if you do not show up to your scheduled appointment, so call or email your therapist immediately to avoid the fee.

Additionally, we ask that if a client is sick or something prevents you from coming at the last minute, we can offer a phone or Zoom video session.

What if I need to cancel my appointment?

FAQ

We are not in-network with any insurance companies. However, we are able to provide you with a superbill to submit to your insurance for reimbursement. Please contact your insurance company to learn more about out-of-network behavioral health coverage.

Do you take insurance?

Ready to begin therapy?

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