Questions
Frequently asked questions
Reaching out for sex therapy can bring up a lot of "wait, how does this actually work?" That's completely normal. Here are honest answers to the things people ask me most — and if your question isn't here, you're always welcome to ask.
All frequently asked questions
Getting started
Not at all. You don't need a diagnosis, a specific "problem," or the right words to start. Plenty of clients come simply curious about their desire, their bodies, or a relationship — and that's a perfectly good reason. If a diagnosis is ever clinically relevant (for example, for an insurance claim), we'll talk about it openly together first.
The first session is mostly about getting to know each other. We'll talk about what brought you in, what you're hoping for, and a bit of your history — only as much as you feel ready to share. There's no script and no homework you have to "pass." You set the pace, and it's okay to say "I'd rather not go there yet." Think of it as the start of a conversation, not an interrogation.
Sex therapy can help with desire and arousal, pain or discomfort, mismatched libidos, shame and body image, identity and orientation, recovering after trauma, communication with a partner, or simply wanting a richer, more connected intimate life. You don't need a crisis to qualify. If you're unsure, reach out and book a first session — there's no pressure, and we can use that time to talk it through and see whether we're a good fit.
Sessions & logistics
Both. I see clients in person at my office in Bellingham, WA, and I offer telehealth across Washington and Arizona over a secure, HIPAA-conscious video platform. Many clients find it easier to talk about intimate topics from the comfort and privacy of their own space. For telehealth you'll just need a private spot, a stable internet connection, and a device with a camera — headphones are a nice touch for privacy.
Individual sessions are typically 50 minutes; couples sessions usually run 60–75 minutes so there's room for both partners. Most people start weekly to build momentum, then space sessions out as things settle. There's no minimum commitment — we'll revisit the rhythm together and adjust to fit your goals, energy, and budget.
I'm licensed in Washington and Arizona, so I can work with clients who are physically located in either state at the time of their session. In-person sessions are held at my office in Bellingham, WA, and telehealth is available across both Washington and Arizona. If you're outside those states, reach out anyway — I'll do my best to point you toward an affirming provider near you. Sessions are held Monday through Thursday by appointment.
Fees & insurance
For self-pay clients, the initial intake session is $180 (55 minutes) and each follow-up session is $150 (55 minutes). Payment is due at the time of session, and I accept all major cards and HSA/FSA cards. I'm also in network with several insurance plans — see the next question for details.
Yes. I'm in network with Aetna, Blue Cross / Blue Shield, First Choice Health, LifeWise, Premera Blue Cross, and Regence Blue Shield. Coverage and copays vary by individual plan, so the most reliable way to confirm is to look me up through your plan's Find-a-Provider tool or call the number on your insurance card. If you don't see your plan listed, self-pay rates are above and I'm always happy to talk it through.
Confidentiality & privacy
Yes. What you share in therapy is private and protected, and nothing about your sexuality, relationships, or identity will ever be treated as something to be ashamed of. There are a few narrow, legally required exceptions every therapist must follow — situations involving imminent risk of serious harm to you or someone else, or abuse of a child or vulnerable adult. I'll walk you through these clearly at the start, so you always know where the boundaries are.
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Sex therapy specifics
No — never. Sex therapy is talk therapy. There is no physical exam, no touch, no nudity, and no demonstrations of any kind, ever. We work entirely through conversation, reflection, and practical tools you can try privately on your own terms. If physical or medical concerns come up, I may suggest collaborating with a trusted physician or pelvic-floor physical therapist, but that care happens with them, not in our sessions.
Yes — wholeheartedly. Untangling purity culture and religious sexual shame is one of the things I focus on most. Many people carry messages from their upbringing that their desires, bodies, or curiosity are dangerous or "bad," and that conditioning can linger long after your beliefs have shifted. Together we gently sort out what's truly yours from what was handed to you, so you can rebuild a relationship with intimacy that feels honest and your own. I work without judgment of any faith background — whether you're still practicing, have stepped away, or are somewhere in between, you're welcome exactly as you are.
Absolutely, and affirmingly. Queer, trans, and questioning clients; kink and BDSM communities; and people in open, polyamorous, and other consensually non-monogamous relationships are genuinely welcome here. Your identity and relationship structure are not the "problem" to be solved — they're part of who you are. I work from a sex-positive, anti-shame stance, and I'll meet you with curiosity and respect, not assumptions.
Yes. I work with couples and with partners in all relationship configurations — including more than two people where everyone is invested in the work. We focus on communication, navigating mismatched desire, rebuilding trust and intimacy, and creating a shared language for pleasure. Each person's voice matters, and I hold space so the conversation stays balanced, kind, and productive.
Accessibility
Accessibility is built into how I work, not added as an afterthought. Sessions can include live captions, and I'm glad to slow down, repeat, or send written summaries. Resource Library materials advertise captions and transcripts for audio and video, and worksheets are designed to be screen-reader friendly. Flexible formats — phone-only sessions, extra processing time, sensory-aware pacing — are welcome. Tell me what helps you participate fully, and we'll set it up together.
Still have questions?
You don't need to have it all figured out before you reach out. Send a note or book a first session, and we'll find the answers together.