Portland Sex Therapy/Couples Counseling Dr. Westberg
Hello, my name is Dr. Westberg. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Sex Therapist, I specialize in both individual and couples counseling. With certifications as a sexologist (ACS) and sex educator (AASECT), I align with professional standards in sex therapy. My affiliations include the World Association of Sex Coaches, American Board of Sexology, and AASECT. My practice is enriched by over two decades of experience, guiding individuals and couples through their therapeutic journeys.
Previously, I served as a Professor in the Marriage, Couple, and Family Therapy Program at Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Oregon, where I led the Sex Therapy Track. My role included coordinating education for aspiring sex therapists and overseeing the clinical training of students.
I work with individuals and couples with a broad range of sexual issues including difficulties with desire, discrepancy in desire, sexual trauma, infidelity, exploring sexuality, performance issues, and pain during sex.
Currently, I am exclusively offering online sex therapy.
What Does A Sex Therapist Do?
My sex therapy approach is comprehensive, targeting behavioral, relational, emotional, cognitive, and contextual dimensions of sexual/intimacy issues. Focusing on only one aspect isn’t as impactful; holistic consideration of all factors ensures a more effective treatment.
In my approach to sex therapy, relational dynamics play a crucial role, making sessions resemble typical couples therapy. However, the key distinction in my method is the persistent focus on sexual aspects, ensuring they are not overlooked, unlike other couples therapy sessions where sex might be sidelined. This balanced attention to both relationship dynamics and sexual issues is what sets my therapy apart.
Therapy With Me
My aim is to assist you in identifying your desires and the obstacles preventing you from achieving them. Often, these barriers stem from past injuries related to our relationships or interpretations of past events. I employ strategies designed to help you navigate past these obstacles, focusing on your thoughts, actions, emotions, and interpersonal connections. Therapy doesn’t necessarily require a long-term commitment; a single consultation can suffice to understand the issue and devise a plan to move forward.
Common Issues In Sex Therapy
Individuals may seek support for a wide range of sexual health and relationship issues, including but not limited to:
- Reduced Sexual Desire: Experiencing a lower interest in sexual activity. More on sexual desire discrepancies here.
- Infidelity/Betrayal Trauma: Navigating the emotional aftermath of infidelity.
- Arousal Difficulties: Challenges with becoming aroused.
- Erectile Dysfunction: Experiencing problems achieving or maintaining an erection.
- Orgasmic Disorders: Difficulties in achieving orgasm.
- Premature Ejaculation: Ejaculating earlier than desired during sexual activity. More information here.
- Communication Challenges: Difficulties in discussing sexual needs or preferences with partners.
- Revitalizing Sex Lives: Strategies to enhance monotonous or routine sexual relationships.
- Sexless Marriages: Addressing the absence of sexual activity within a marriage.
- Mismatched Sexual Desires: Managing differences in sexual interest or preferences between partners.
- Sexual Preferences Concerns: Questions or concerns about what or who arouses you.
- Sexuality and Trauma: Engaging in sexual activities when there’s a history of trauma or sexual abuse for you or your partner.
- Painful Intercourse: Experiencing pain during sexual activity.
- Sexual Addiction: Dealing with excessive or problematic sexual behaviors.
- Compulsive Sexual Behavior: Struggling with control over sexual impulses.
- Body Image Issues: Concerns about body appearance affecting sexual confidence.
- Pleasure Difficulties: Trouble experiencing sexual pleasure.
- Sexual Functioning with Physical Challenges: Maintaining sexual health amidst physical disabilities or chronic illnesses.
- Sexual Orientation or Preference Concerns: Exploring or questioning one’s sexual orientation.
- Gender Transitions: Support related to sexual health during or after transitioning.
- Alternative Relationship Styles: Navigating polyamory, open relationships, or other non-traditional relationship formats.
- Sexual Practice Concerns: Questions or worries about sexual behaviors or practices.
- Fetishes: Understanding and accepting unique sexual interests.
- Sexual Violence: Addressing the impact of sexual violence on health and relationships. More on Sexual Violence here.
What You Can Expect From Sexual Counseling
Sex therapy focuses on helping people that are experiencing sexual/intimacy issues.
Sex therapy with me is behavioral, relational, emotional, cognitive, and contextual. Addressing one without the other is less effective than focusing on all aspects of an issue.
In many cases, sexual concerns are rooted in the dynamics of a relationship. Thus, sex therapy with me often shares similarities with conventional couples therapy. However, a key distinction in my approach is the consistent emphasis on addressing sexual issues, ensuring that these are not overlooked but are instead integral to the therapeutic process. This ensures a holistic treatment that encompasses both relational and sexual well-being
How Do You Know When You Need Sex Therapy?
Sex therapy can help with the following scenarios:
- Dissatisfaction with your sexual self and/or relationship.
- Conflict in your relationship due to sexual issues.
- Anxiety around sex.
- A desire to maintain and grow your sexual relationship.
- A desire to explore your sexuality.
- A need/want to heal from infidelity or any other relational trauma.
- A desire to explore romantic/sexual relationships.
- A need/want to heal from sexual abuse.
- A desire to understand and navigate non-monogamy.
What You Can Expect to Pay for A Certified Sex Therapist in Portland
The cost of sex therapy in Portland depends on the clinician’s level of experience. It can range anywhere from 115.00 to 250.00 per session.
Due to COVID, most of the therapists are providing online therapy. This means that you will have more therapists to choose from. However, if you reside in Oregon, the therapist needs to be licensed in Oregon.
Psychosexual Philosophy/Approach
Attachment-Based Therapy
Polyvagal Theory & Somatic Therapy
Acceptance & Commitment 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
Services I Provide
These are the services I provide to the Portland, Oregon area. All sessions are via Zoom.
Couple's Counseling
I offer traditional couples therapy, with a special focus on enhancing sexual satisfaction, including aspects such as sexual identity, relationship structure, and dynamics
Individual Counseling
It’s a common misconception that sex therapy is exclusively for couples, but individual sessions are equally valuable. Solo sessions allow you to explore your sexual identity and preferences, boost sexual desire, improve body comfort, and address personal wounds that may hinder sexual satisfaction.
Areas of Expertise
Pre-Marital/Marital Counseling/Conflict Resolution
Reduced Desire For Sex/Discrepant Libidos/Sexual Expectations
Infidelity/Betrayal/Trust/Interpersonal Sensitivity/Affairs
Difficulty Becoming Sexually Aroused/Female and Male Diminished Sexual Desire
Erectile Issues/Premature Ejaculation/Delayed Ejaculation
Difficulties With Orgasms/Vaginismus/Anorgasmia/Dyspareunia
Rapid Orgasms
Communicating about sex with partners
Improving boring or routine sex lives
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
Out of control or compulsive sexual behavior
Body Image/Sexual Shame/Guilt/Secrets
Gender transitions
Alternative relationship styles
Fetishes
Navigating Non-Monogamy
Sexual Violence
Navigating Non-Monogamy
Emotional Connection/Psychological Well Being
Intimate Communication/Sexual Confidence
Anger/Power Struggles/Sexual Sabotage
Pre-Marital/Marital Counseling/Conflict Resolution
Mixed Orientation Relationships
How to Find Sex Therapists in Portland
Moving to Portland was a choice influenced by the city’s progressive views on sexuality, sex, and relationships. The community here embraces diverse perspectives and practices concerning sexuality, making it a conducive environment for exploring these aspects of life.
In Portland, you’ll encounter numerous therapists with a forward-thinking and positive stance on sex. If you’re searching for a therapist, consider the following advice:
- Prioritize finding a sex therapist who has expertise in couples counseling. The most effective care often comes from professionals trained in both domains.
- Be cautious when selecting a sex coach, as they might not possess the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of couple dynamics effectively.
- Ask potential therapists about their experience with relational trauma and how they approach differences in sexual desire among couples.
- It’s crucial to find a therapist who doesn’t just focus on past trauma or behavior but also considers cognition, relationships, and the broader context.
To locate a sex therapist, you can start with therapist directories like Psychology Today or Portland Therapy Center. Recommendations from friends, family, and healthcare providers can also be invaluable. Additionally, a simple online search for “sex therapists in Portland” can yield useful results.
Contact Me
Marisol G. Westberg, Ph.D., LMFT
1220 SW Morrison St Suite 935, Portland, OR 97205
Text Me At
(503) 809-2857
Areas Served
Salem, OR
Sex and Couples Therapy
Eugene, OR Sexual Therapy
Gresham, OR
Couples Therapy and Sex Therapy
Hillsboro, OR Sexual Therapy
Beaverton, OR Intimacy Therapy
Bend, OR Sexual Therapy
Eroticism in Oregon
It’s important to remember that not everyone will find these resources appealing, and there’s no obligation to explore them simply because you feel you ‘should.’ Those involved in any of these fields will reassure you that your sexual desires are valid, and it’s perfectly okay to want what you want.
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