Sex Therapy in Connecticut

Hello, I’m Dr. Westberg, offering sex therapy in Connecticut. As a board-certified sexologist (ACS), certified sex educator (AASECT), and licensed couples counselor (LMFT), I address a wide range of sexual issues for individuals and couples. My practice integrates critical theories on sex and sexuality with a comprehensive understanding of trauma, aiming to fulfill your desires and foster shame-free sexual relationships.

Becoming A Sex Therapist

Sex therapy unexpectedly became my focus during my academic journey, sparked by a friend’s story that highlighted deep-seated societal perceptions about sexuality. This intrigue led me to explore “The Colonization of Sexuality” in my dissertation. Post-Ph.D., at Lewis and Clark College, I ventured into teaching sex therapy, despite my initial lack of clinical experience. This challenge transformed my private practice, deepening my commitment to sex therapy—a field ripe with societal biases and shame. My goal is to create a supportive environment for individuals to overcome these burdens.

Couples Sex Therapy

Couples therapy is crucial within sex therapy, as it addresses relational dynamics, communication, conflict, and past hurts essential for resolving sexual issues. Effective sex therapy often involves couples counseling, employing various strategies tailored to enhance sexual well-being.

What to Expect From Sex Therapy

Sex or Intimacy Therapy focuses on addressing sexual matters within the framework of individual or couples therapy. It tackles a range of common sexual issues, including performance anxiety, infidelity, non-monogamy, sexual compulsion, sexual violence, anorgasmia, and discrepancies in sexual desire, with the aim of improving sexual health and intimacy.

What Is Therapy Like With Me?

I begin by exploring why you perceive an issue as problematic, highlighting the impact of societal norms on sex and sexuality. It’s vital for changes to stem from personal desire rather than societal pressures. Addressing sexual issues involves considering relational dynamics, personal history, and contextual factors, with a focus on emotional, cognitive, behavioral, relational, and contextual changes. I utilize various therapeutic approaches, including EFT, Parts Work, and Trauma-Focused therapy. As a sex and body positive therapist, I support diverse sexual identities and practices, affirming queer, poly, and kink orientations.

Is Sex Therapy Right For You?

Sex therapy might be beneficial if you’re experiencing dissatisfaction with your sexual identity or relationship, conflicts arising from sexual issues, anxiety about sex, a wish to enhance or explore your sexual relationship, a need to heal from relational trauma or sexual abuse, or a curiosity about non-monogamy and exploring various romantic or sexual relationships.

Therapeutic Modalities I Offer

Acceptance & Commitment Therapy

Attachment Based Therapy

Polyvagal Theory & Somatic Therapy

Emotionally Focused Therapy

Internal Family Systems Therapy

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Trauma Therapy

Informed by Queer Theory, Transformative Justice, Feminist and Intersectionality

Trans-Affirming Care; Informed Consent Model (WPATH and ICATH considerations)

Gottman Informed Couples Counseling

Wheel of Consent (Betty Martin)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy

Sexual Concerns

Reduced desire for sex
Infidelity/Betrayal Trauma
Difficulty becoming become aroused
Erectile problems
Orgasm problems
Premature Ejaculation
Communicating about sex with partners
Improving boring or routine sex lives
Sexless marriages
Partners with different degrees or types of sexual desire
Concerns about what turns you on, or who turns you on
Being sexual with a partner if you or your partner has a history of trauma or sexual abuse
Painful Intercourse
Sexual addiction
Out of control or compulsive sexual behavior
Problems with body image
Trouble experiencing pleasure
Sexual pleasure or functioning in the face of physical challenges or chronic illness
Concerns about your sexual orientation or preference
Gender transitions
Alternative relationship styles
Concerns about sexual practices
Fetishes
Navigating Non-Monogamy
Sexual Violence

How to Choose a Sex Therapist in Connecticut

When looking for a sex therapist, prioritize finding a couples therapist with a specialization in sex therapy. Training in couples therapy is crucial for effectively addressing sexual issues within relationships. Exercise caution when considering sex coaches, as they may focus primarily on behavioral and cognitive aspects without fully addressing complex relationship dynamics. Inquire about the therapist’s experience with relational trauma and their approach to sexual desire discrepancies. Optimal therapy should encompass behavior, cognition, relational and contextual factors, as well as past traumas.

Sex Positive Therapy

Sex-positive therapy embraces sex as a healthy and fundamental aspect of human experience, countering historical puritanical views. While most sex therapists hold positive attitudes towards sex, it doesn’t guarantee the therapy’s effectiveness for individuals or relationships. The challenge arises when the sex-positive stance is interpreted too rigidly, potentially shaming those with divergent sexual desires. It’s crucial to ensure that sex therapy aligns with your personal goals without imposing shame or rigid expectations, allowing for a more fulfilling sexual experience.

What Does A Sex Therapist Do?

My role is to guide you in clarifying your desires and understanding the obstacles preventing their fulfillment, without judgment. Emotional wounds, either past or within current relationships, often hinder progress. Additionally, personal expectations, beliefs, and values can complicate achieving your goals. As a sex therapist, I support your healing process and help you navigate the complexity of these influences to find effective strategies for realizing your desires.