Sex Therapy Portland OR
Marisol G. Westberg, Ph.D., LMFT
As an Oregon Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and AASECT Certified Sex Educator, I provide expert counseling for both individuals and couples. With certifications as a sexologist (ACS), sex educator (AASECT), and certified sex coach, my practice adheres to the highest professional standards in sex therapy.
I am affiliated with the World Association of Sex Coaches, American Board of Sexology, and AASECT.
With over 20 years of experience, I have helped countless individuals and couples navigate their therapeutic journeys.
Previously, I was a Professor in the Marriage, Couple, and Family Therapy Program at Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Oregon, where I developed and led the Sex Therapy Track in the MFT program. I also coordinated sex therapy education and supervised clinical training for students.
I assist individuals and couples with various sexual concerns, including desire issues, desire discrepancies, sexual trauma, infidelity, sexual exploration, performance problems, and painful sex.
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
Common Issues In Sex Therapy
- Reduced Sexual Desire: Experiencing a lower interest in sexual activity.
- 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.
- 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.
What You Can Expect From Sexual Counseling
Sex therapy focuses on helping people who 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?
- 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
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
Alternative relationship styles
Navigating Non-Monogamy
Sexual Violence
Emotional Connection/Psychological Well Being
Intimate Communication/Sexual Confidence
Anger/Power Struggles/Sexual Sabotage
Pre-Marital/Marital Counseling/Conflict Resolution
Mixed Orientation Relationships
Services in PDX
How to Find Sex Therapists in Portland, Oregon
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.
Struggling with different desire levels in your relationship? Traditional therapy can cost thousands, but there’s a more affordable option. My step-by-step course addresses desire discrepancy directly from the comfort of your home—for just $297. Learn practical tools to reconnect and understand each other’s needs without breaking the bank. Start rebuilding intimacy today with evidence-based techniques designed specifically for couples with mismatched desires.
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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